The SP Roundup provides a thorough analysis of every starting pitcher’s performance from the Sunday games, and this week featured standout debuts and impressive outings.
Mick Abel made a splash in his MLB debut with the Phillies, throwing six innings of shutout baseball against the Pirates. He recorded nine strikeouts, allowed only five hits, and didn’t walk a batter, all while demonstrating impressive velocity and a solid command of his pitches. Abel’s potential is clear, with a fastball reaching up to 97 mph, and he showcased a diverse array of breaking pitches that could make him a valuable asset in the rotation moving forward.
In addition, Merrill Kelly of the Diamondbacks delivered a dominant performance against the Rockies, throwing seven shutout innings with 11 strikeouts, a testament to his effective changeup. Meanwhile, Andrew Abbott returned to form with a strong outing against the Guardians, showcasing increased velocity which led to a more competitive edge in his pitches.
Other notable performances included Paul Skenes from the Pirates, who had a solid outing with just one earned run over eight innings, and Bryan Woo, proving effective against the Padres.
On the flip side, some pitchers struggled. Justin Verlander faced difficulties, allowing two earned runs and five walks in his four-inning appearance, raising concerns about his current health and performance level. Zach Eflin and Brayan Bello were also on the less favorable side of the pitching spectrum, with both allowing significant runs and hits.
As the season progresses, keeping an eye on emerging talents like Abel and Abbott will be crucial, as their potential for growth could greatly benefit fantasy baseball strategists. The SP Roundup also hints at future streaming options, offering insight into which pitchers might be worth a look in the coming games.
Despite some rough outings, the day provided ample reasons for optimism, especially with young pitchers making their mark. Fantasy owners should remain vigilant, as opportunities may arise from the success of debuting talents and the shake-up in team rotations.