The All-Star Break is upon us, and with it comes a unique edition of the Two Start Starters. This week, instead of ranking pitchers for the upcoming matchups, we're diving into a selection of under-the-radar pitchers who could be valuable additions for the long haul. These pitchers, rostered in 50% or less of Yahoo Leagues, offer an intriguing opportunity for fantasy managers to bolster their rosters.
Jack Flaherty: A Resurgent Force
Jack Flaherty, currently rostered in 54% of leagues, has shown a remarkable turnaround since his May 28th start. His recent stretch of dominance, with a 2.45 ERA and 1.13 WHIP, is a stark contrast to his season-long stats. The key to his success lies in his secondary pitches, particularly his fastball, which has been effective despite a high HardHit% rate. The upcoming matchups against the Phillies and Cubs will be a true test of whether Flaherty can sustain this level of performance.
Joey Cantillo: The STOW Star
Joey Cantillo, a multi-time STOW (somebody to watch), has flown under the radar in 51% of leagues. His solid season stats, including a 3.66 ERA and 1.39 WHIP, are impressive. Cantillo's ability to generate whiffs with his changeup and curveball is a key strength. However, his command can be inconsistent, as evidenced by his recent walks. A positive sign is the increased velocity on his fastball, which has been closer to 93 mph in recent outings.
Ian Seymour: A Rising Star
Ian Seymour's performance against the Yankees was a standout moment, and he's now in the conversation as a must-watch pitcher. Rostered in just 50% of leagues, Seymour boasts an impressive 20.3% K-BB% and has shown excellent command of his pitches. His sweeper, with its unique 8.7 inches of ride, is an effective weapon against both right-handed and left-handed hitters. Seymour's changeup and fastball also pack a punch, with high chase and whiff rates.
Jake Bennett: The Efficient Lefty
The Red Sox have another young lefty to boast about in Jake Bennett. With a phenomenal start to his career, Bennett has posted impressive numbers, including a 2.64 ERA and 0.94 WHIP. His exceptional command and ability to get hitters to expand the zone are notable. While his strikeout numbers are currently lower than expected, his 12.8% SwStr% suggests that strikeouts could soon become a more prominent part of his game.
Ryan Weathers: Swing and Miss Potential
Ryan Weathers, rostered in 46% of leagues, has an intriguing profile. His 19.9% K-BB% and 30.7% CSW% are exceptional, but his home run issues are a concern. However, in the right matchups, Weathers can be a valuable asset. His recent starts have shown an impressive 15% SwStr% without a significant increase in walks. With above-average control and swing-and-miss potential, Weathers offers an intriguing ceiling.
Gage Jump: Electric Stuff
Gage Jump, rostered in only 32% of leagues, is an exciting rookie with electric stuff. His breaking pitches, particularly his slider and curveball, have impressive Stuff+ ratings. Jump's four-seam fastball is also a weapon, with high zone and chase rates. While his last two starts haven't been his best, the potential is undeniable, and with more MLB experience, he could become a force.
Jared Jones: The Cautious Approach
Jared Jones, rostered in just 25% of leagues, is a pitcher the Pirates are handling with care. His pitch count is still being managed, but his recent performance, including a perfect 6-inning outing with 8 strikeouts, is a sign of his potential. Jones' elite SwStr% and strong groundball rate are impressive. As the Pirates push for a playoff spot, Jones, along with Paul Skenes and Braxton Ashcraft, could form a formidable trio.
Brandon Sproat: A Promising Arm
Brandon Sproat, acquired in the Freddy Peralta trade, has shown flashes of brilliance. Rostered in only 25% of leagues, Sproat has the potential to be a strikeout machine. His three-fastball approach, combined with a sweeper and curveball, gives him a diverse arsenal. While he's had some ups and downs, his recent improvements and the Brewers' reputation for pitcher development make him an intriguing prospect.
Christian Scott: A Deep League Option
Christian Scott, rostered in 16% of leagues, is a solid option for deeper leagues. Scott has been a standout for the Mets this season, with an elite K rate of 27.9%. While his walk rate could be better, his ERA and WHIP are respectable. With the Mets' starting pitching issues, Scott is likely to remain in the rotation, making him a valuable asset for fantasy managers.
This edition of the Two Start Starters offers a unique perspective on pitchers who, despite their low roster percentages, have the potential to make a significant impact. From resurgent veterans to promising rookies, these pitchers are worth keeping an eye on as we navigate the All-Star Break and beyond.
