A big fastball is a huge resource in a pitcher’s arsenal. It seems like the fastball is getting faster, too. So far this season, a four seam fastball has been thrown at an average of 92.2 mph. Just ten years ago, in 2005, the average velocity was somewhere around 90.1 mph. Fastball command is one of the single most important skills in pitching. Of course, some pitchers can thrive without the big fastball, but for the most part, the bigger the fastball the better the results for the pitcher. Now, on to the streaming pitchers for July 10th!
Streaming Pitchers: 7/10/2015
Mike Leake RHP CIN (@ MIA)
Mike Leake is sort of a mixed bag, as he does some things well but leaves some to be desired. His issues with strikeouts, or a lack of them, and his home run problems make him a hard pitcher to depend on. But his control and his ground ball rate are both better than average, leaving one to wonder if the home runs might be a bit of bad luck. Indeed, his matching ERA and FIP of 4.39 are offset by his 3.71 xFIP. That xFIP is better than average, meaning he is a more useful pitcher than most realize. He’s worth using in good streaming situations, and he’s going to get that with Friday’s start against the Marlins in Miami. There are few better matchups to stream against right now than a pitcher facing the Fish at home. They only hit at an 87 wRC+ there, and against righties they hit a low 81 wRC+. Leake has a good opportunity for a strong start, and I’d definitely give him a go here.
Kyle Hendricks RHP CHC (vs. CWS)
We’ve covered Kyle Hendricks’ abilities here before. With 7.34 K/9, 1.66 BB/9, and a 49.6% ground ball rate, Hendricks should be owned in more leagues than this. His 3.82 ERA scares some fantasy players off, but his 3.41 FIP and 3.48 xFIP point to a better pitcher than his ERA suggests. Still, if guys are willing to leave him on your waiver wire, then continue to use him for your streaming purposes. Just don’t be surprised if you let him go and someone scoops him up for good. We’ve also covered the White Sox and their astonishingly abysmal hitting. The Sox only hit at an 83 wRC+ away from the Cell, and an 85 wRC+ against righties. Give him a go, and if you need a full-time starter, don’t hesitate to hold onto him.
Good luck and happy streaming!
