Josh Hader

Karablog - 4/4

For those who haven’t seen electric lefty Josh Hader pitch, it’s quite a treat, and one I’d want to invest in for fantasy purposes.


The facts also say the lanky Hader, who struck out a ridiculous 161 hitters over 126 minor league frames last season, is just about ready for the majors, so fantasy owners should get ready. Many fantasy owners know about Chicago White Sox right-hander Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez, the former Washington Nationals pitcher obtained in the Adam Eaton deal. They are to be watched for fantasy purposes as well.

Giolito and Lopez should miss bats, but not to the level Hader does it. Hader’s motion reminds of Boston Red Sox lefty Chris Sale, as it’s a low, lefty arm slot that appears to be sidearm. Left-handed hitters have little chance against it -- or perhaps the right phrase is "little courage." Right-handers struggle with the slider and fastball velocity as well. Command is an issue, quite naturally, but the upside is immense.

There really aren’t many minor league pitchers with what I’d call a good chance to be fantasy relevant this year, though there are always surprises. New York Mets right-hander Robert Gsellman was one such surprise a year ago, though he remains rookie-eligible. I'd recommend Tampa Bay Rays right-handers Brent Honeywell and Jose De Leon and Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Nick Kingham (Tyler Glasnow won the No. 5 rotation spot).