A Look at Spring Training - Pitchers

Spring Training stats mean nothing. Well, almost nothing. There is some evidence that a 200+ point spike in SLG over a player's career average indicates that he may have a breakout season. I'll try to take a look at that in about a week after players have compiled more stats. But, for now, I just wanted to mention a few players who have made news in camp and look at what effect it might have on your fantasy team. Like I said, Spring Training stats mean almost nothing. So, what I'm mostly looking at is how some of these guys may be making a case for more playing time or early-season call-ups.

Jair Jurrjens - He's pitched nine innings and only allowed one run. This kind of performance could force the Braves to put him in the rotation. His peripherals aren't incredibly impressive (4 K, 2 BB), but he could help your fantasy team if he does indeed earn a rotation spot.

Manny Parra - The Brewers have only had him start one game, but in nine innings pitched, Parra has eight K's, only one walk, and allowed only one run (a solo homer). I think the plan is to start Parra in AAA to begin the year, but I'm sure he's impressed the coaches and could be a pretty quick call-up when injuries occur.

Nick Adenhart - The Angels have a few question marks in the rotation with Kelvim Escobar starting the year on the DL, John Lackey a little sore, and Ervin Santana generally sucking ass. Adenhart is making a strong case for a call-up early in the year with 8 2/3 innings pitched and 3 runs allowed. Yesterday he pitched four innings of shutout baseball against the A's.

Edinson Volquez - His ERA sits at 5.63 but Volquez has recorded 13 strikeouts in only 8 innings pitched. I have very little faith in the intelligence of the Cincinnati organization, but in theory this should help him solidify a spot in the rotation. And I like the K's.

Jesse Litsch - On the bubble for the #5 spot in the Toronto rotation, Litsch is making a great case for himself over the likes of Gustavo Chacin. Sure, the 6.75 ERA isn't pretty, but the Blue Jays are smart enough to appreciate the value of 9 strikeouts and 2 walks in 8 innings pitched. If he keeps that up, I'm sure he'll impress the organization enough to grab that fifth spot. In an AL-only league, Litsch is a very interesting sleeper.