Brett Anderson (SP, OAK) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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OWNED IN: 16% of leagues

ANALYSIS: After twirling 7 ⅔ scoreless innings against the Mariners in his previous start, Oakland Athletics starting pitcher Brett Anderson needed just 93 pitches to blank the Rangers over seven innings of work. He allowed just one hit and one walk, which brings his post-injury WHIP below 1.00 and his ERA down to 2.11.

That said, the biggest surprise might be his six strikeouts, as he had punched out just 19 across 40 innings prior to Tuesday. No one will try to convince you that he is an ace incapable of surrendering a run, but do not underestimate the power of Oakland’s spacious park, their top-10 defense (per Fangraphs' DEF chart) and Anderson’s own abilities when healthy.

The issue for Anderson is that he has a terrible injury history, so scoop him up while he is healthy. He makes a good addition in deeper leagues, particularly considering how well the Athletics are playing.