Brandon McCarthy (SP, LAD) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in All Leagues

OWNED IN: 53 percent of Fleaflicker leagues

ANALYSIS: Brandon McCarthy has returned from Tommy John surgery in style. Through five starts, he boasts a 2.39 ERA and 0.84 WHIP to go along with an 11.3 K/9. He's only averaged five innings per start so far, as the Dodgers ease him back into action. The kid gloves treatment might limit his value a bit - particularly in leagues that count quality starts - but with ratios like his, who needs volume? Those ratios will be put to the test tonight, as he'll take the mound at that veritable pitchers' paradise, Coors Field. He'll also draw the Red Sox next time out, so it's a rough week for him in terms of matchups. But assuming he can get through those draws relatively unscathed, it should be smooth sailing for the remainder of the season.