Carlos Zambrano, Josh Beckett Two of Fantasy Baseball's Bounceback Players

Here’s a look at some pitchers who should bounce back this year.

Josh Beckett

Beckett struggled through injuries to a 12-10, 4.03 ERA season in 2008.  The encouraging news is despite not having his typical stuff, he still managed 172 Ks and a 1.19 WHIP. 

A healthy Josh Beckett should approach his 2007 numbers: 20 wins, low-three ERA, and 190 Ks.

Jake Peavy

His numbers (2.85 ERA, 1.18) were outstanding, but he went just 10-11 because he lacked run support.

He was nearly traded to the Cubs, and a deal could still be in the works. I fully expect him to win at least five or six more games and add about 40 Ks to last year’s 166.

Justin Verlander

Like most Tigers, Verlander had a 2008 to forget.  He went 11-17 with a 4.84 ERA, and a 1.40 WHIP.

I expect a big bounceback year for him.

John Lackey

Why do all of these guys’ names start with a J?  Lackey managed just 24 starts last year, but went 12-5. 

His ERA was a shade higher than normal at 3.75 (the three previous years it was 3.44, 3.56, and 3.01).

He struck out roughly the same ratio of batters (7.19 K/9 in 2007 and 7.17 in 2008.) I see no reason not to expect 17+ wins, a 3.50 ERA, and 180 Ks.

Scott Kazmir

Finally a non-J. Kazmir started 27 games last year and went 12-8 with a 3.49 ERA, a 1.27 WHIP, and 166 Ks. 

His ERA and WHIP were right in line with his career averages. Where he should improve is in wins and Ks. I’d guess he’ll win a career-high 16 games and strike out 200.

Carlos Zambrano

Zambrano had a nice winning percentage (.700) as he went 14-6, but he struck out just 130 batters. 

I don’t see a big change in his WHIP or ERA, but I expect him to win 17+ games and strike out 170 batters. 

Chris Carpenter

Proceed with caution with Carpenter, as he has lost two years to injury. He was, however, one of the best pitchers in the game from 2004-2006. 

If he looks good this spring, why not take a chance on him?

Photos courtesy of Icon SMI