Michael Wacha (SP, STL) - 2015 Fantasy Baseball Sleeper

BALLER MOVE: Target ~14th Round

ANALYSIS: Much was expected from Michael Wacha last season after he posted a 9.05 K/9 rate and 2.78 ERA in nine starts during his 2013 rookie campaign. Unfortunately, a stress reaction in his right shoulder forced the Cardinals to shut him down for seven weeks in 2014. Once he came back in September, he was unable to effectively throw the changeup that had been one of his big out pitches. Prior to the injury, Wacha would primarily use his 93 MPH fastball to set up his 85 MPH change. Late last season, he was forced to substitute his changeup with a curveball. He also threw his cutter more often.

When Wacha was at his best in 2013, his deceptive motion caused his fastball to approach the plate on a downward angle. Batters would lay off and end up being punched out on strikes. This preseason, Wacha has got his tilt back, which is bad news for opposing hitters, but good news for fantasy baseball owners looking for value in their draft. Wacha is currently being chosen in the 14th round in the average 12-team fantasy baseball league.