Fantasy Baseball: Johan Santana off to a Good Start

After missing all of the 2011 season, New York Mets lefty and former two-time Cy Young Award winner Johan Santana was sharp in his spring training debut.

Santana threw two scoreless innings, reaching 90-mph on the radar with his fastball. Even more important, he felt good afterwards. As long as he can maintain good velocity on his fastball, his changeup can remain devastating.

He is an obvious risk given the injury issues he has dealt with the past few years, but when he’s healthy he can be one of the best pitchers in the game.

Another thing to consider if you choose to select Johan is the fact that he is a notoriously slow starter. While his splits are very similar home vs. away or day vs. night, his pre- and post-All-Star Game numbers are a bit more drastic.

Prior to the All-Star Break, Johan is 68-46 with a 3.37 ERA, a 1.16 WHIP and a .233 BAA. After the break, however, when the weather starts heating up, Johan is 65-23 with a 2.75 ERA, a 1.07 WHIP and a .218 BAA.

Johan could also have his innings monitored this year, and get an occasional start skipped to keep his arm fresh. Regardless, when he is able to pitch, he should help your fantasy team.

Johan’s current Mock Draft Central ADP is 231 (63rd starting pitcher). Obviously, if he continues to produce quality spring training innings for the Mets, that number will decrease dramatically.

He is far too well-known and decorated to call a sleeper, but Johan very well could be one of the best value picks, should he stay healthy.

Also check out:

• 2012 Fantasy Baseball First Base Rankings
• 2012 Fantasy Baseball Outfielder Rankings
• 2012 Fantasy Baseball Starting Pitcher Rankings
• Additional 2012 Fantasy Baseball Starting Pitcher Options
• 2012 Fantasy Baseball Sleepers