The Sandlot Shrink
Here's a handful of hurlers worth considering as the season moves into full swing:
Brad Bergesen, Baltimore Orioles: Bergesen, 23, could take over the fifth starter's job for now. He doesn't throw hard although he can get it up to 95-mph at times. He relies on a sinker-slider-changeup combo with a good feel on the mound. He pitched well at two minor league stops last year but has to be sharp to win. Chris Waters and David Pauley are other possibilities for the rotation.
Aaron Laffey, Cleveland Indians: Laffey, 24, was recalled to be the fifth starter with Scott Lewis on the DL. Laffey is a finesse guy and unpredictable on the mound but could have some value if he hits his spots. He posted a 4.23 ERA for the Tribe last year and lost out to Lewis in spring training. Could have some short-term value.
Brian Tallet, Toronto Blue Jays: Tallet, 31, will fill in for Jesse Litsch for a start or two. Tallet is a finesse guy and has not made a start in three years but could have some value if he hits his spots. He has been an excellent lefty reliever for the Jays the last three years.
P.J. Walters, St. Louis Cardinals: Walters, 24, will take over the fifth spot in the rotation for now. He doesn't throw hard but has a decent curveball and a nasty changeup he uses as an 'out' pitch. He could have some short-term success but without a good fastball, he will have to be sharp to win. He pitched well in the Texas League last year but struggled when promoted to the PCL.
Chris Perez, St. Louis Cardinals: Perez, 23, was recalled to work setup relief but could very well be in the mix for saves with an unsettled bullpen situation. Perez throws hard but need to win the confidence of Tony La Russa before he is trusted with the closer's job. He saved seven games for the Cards last September but was demoted after a rough spring.
Brian Anderson, Chicago White Sox: Anderson, 27, will play full time in center field (for now) with Jerry Owens also seeing time out there. Anderson has a little pop and speed but only has value in AL-only leagues. He batted .232-8-24-5 in 181 at bats for the Sox last year. They also signed Scott Podsednik to a minor-league contract.
Elijah Dukes, Washington Nationals: Dukes, 24, has the full time center field job now that Lastings Milledge was sent down. Dukes has a lot of tools but strikes out a lot and is a streaky hitter that keeps his average down. Still worth a pickup though. He batted .264-13-44-13 with a .386 on base percentage for the Nats last year.
Nick Green, Boston Red Sox: Green, 30, will start at shortstop until Julio Lugo returns but is not a big threat at the plate. If all goes well, Lugo will go on a rehab assignment with AAA Pawtucket on Tuesday.
