Felix Pena (SP/RP, LAA) - Week 8 Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 14+ Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 9% of Yahoo! leagues

ANALYSIS: Los Angeles Angels pitcher Felix Pena has continued to thrive in LA's new "bulldog" role, where he comes in after an opener throws the first inning or two.

Since converting into a bulldog, Pena has gone 2-0 with a 2.95 ERA and a 0.80 WHIP - thanks in part to a ridiculous 23/1 K/BB ratio in his 21 1/3 innings of work. He's made four appearances, pitching roughly once per week and giving fantasy owners the kind of numbers that make him useful in nearly all formats.

Of course, Pena's value is limited considerably in leagues that count quality starts, as he is unable to accrue them while coming out of the pen. He's not hurt in leagues that count wins though, and his ratios are useful in all formats.

Pena's 2.95 ERA is boosted by a 3.05 FIP and a 2.55 SIERA, which should make owners feel better about this performance - it may actually stick. Pena is homer prone (17.6% HR/FB rate) but as long as he continues to limit walks while posting impressive strikeout numbers, he will be a useful fantasy asset in virtually all formats.