Drew Pomeranz (SP, BOS) – Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 12+ Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 26% of Leagues

ANALYSIS: Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Drew Pomeranz had been on the DL with biceps tendinitis for nearly two months before returning on Tuesday night against the Orioles. While Pom’s early struggles paint the 4 ⅔ IP, 6 H, 4 ER, 2 HR, 2 BB, 4 K outing with serious pessimism moving forward, we have to remember the rust rule.

There is a good chance that he does better than six swings-and-misses on 89 pitches his next time against the Twins. We may not suggest starting him until he shows positive signs, but there are good reasons to add Pomeranz.

On top of his strikeout potential, anyone with a slot in the Astros, Red Sox or Yankees rotations has great odds at winning games. While there are definitely issues with Pomeranz, wins will mask those issues and strikeouts will help as well. That being said, he is a deep league addition and should not be added in quality start leagues.