Talented Toronto Blue Jays' pitching prospect Marcus Stroman popped his ACL while fielding bunts during practice on Tuesday and will miss the 2015 season. The 23-year-old, home-grown Stroman posted a solid rookie line last season to the tune of 11-6 with a 7.65 K/9 rate and 3.65 ERA and (3.17 xFIP) in 20 starts (26 app.). He shot through the Jays' farm system before earning a spot in the rotation last year.
Stroman was ranked 215th overall, but the 48th best pitcher in our last fantasy baseball rankings update as his stock continued to rise. I expect Aaron Sanchez to take his place in the rotation eventually. Although, they will work out a few different alternative arms. Sanchez finished 7-9 in 34 starts at the High-A and Double-A levels between 2013-14 (7.80 K/9), but doesn't have much Triple-A experience - only six starts.
Meanwhile back in Philadelphia, a follow-up to John Halpin's Buzz Blog Quick Hits entry from the other day regarding Cliff Lee's health. It turns out Lee does have a tear in a left elbow tendon. His only real option is to try to pitch through the pain unless he elects to go under the knife, which sidelines him for six-to-eight months and, according to him, could bring the curtain down on his career.
Lee currently ranks as the FOX Sports SP28 in our most recent rankings (119th overall). Due to Lee's pessimistic tone as of late and knowing this same injury bothered him last season, it's best for fantasy owners to avoid the gamble and see the glass as half-empty in this case. Hyun-Jin Ryu and National League Rookie of the Year Jake deGrom rank right behind Lee in our compositie pitcher rankings and are much better options at the moment.
Fantasy Baseball Rankings: Top 300 | C | 1B | 2B | 3B | SS | OF | SP | RP
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