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OWNED IN: 32% of leagues
ANALYSIS: Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Kyle Gibson has still just won one game since the beginning of April, but there are still good reasons to own the former first round pick. Gibson has pitched at least six innings in each of his last four starts (including three where he has thrown seven innings) and had three consecutive quality starts. He is 2-6 with a 3.48 ERA, putting up All-Star quality performance other than his record.
Gibson has struck out nearly a batter per inning (93 in 95 1/3 innings) and has also induced 47.9% ground balls. While he has pitched at least six innings in four consecutive starts, he has also pitched into the sixth inning or further in each of his last 10 starts. The major downside for Gibson recently is that, since May 1, he has allowed 37.1% hard hit balls and has a 23.6% line drive rate allowed, yielding a 4.18 FIP compared to his 3.54 ERA.
He will have a tough assignment on Monday, as he will face the Brewers in Milwaukee. The Brewers have the best record in the National League, and Miller Park is one of the better hitter's parks in baseball, so starting Gibson in Milwaukee is not a good idea. He will likely face the Orioles in Minnesota for his second start of the week, though, and that alone makes Gibson a good streamer in deeper leagues.
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