Luiz Gohara (SP, ATL) - Week 8 Waiver Wire Pickups

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ANALYSIS: Atltanta Braves starting pitcher Luiz Gohara is finally getting the turn in the rotation that we all envisioned before Opening Day, but we need to temper expectations since he is transitioning from the bullpen and will travel to Brazil after the outing to be with his sick mother. We understand the caution since his rehab starts were not pretty (12 earned runs in 15 2/3 innings), but this is a premier talent who posted a 2.75 FIP/3.89 SIERA with 31 Ks in 29 ⅓ innings at age-20 last season.

He also has the support of a top-flight Atlanta squad, which will undoubtedly help him in the way of wins, something that fantasy owners may have been leery of to begin the season. It would be highly unlikely that the Braves end up starting Anibal Sanchez over him down the line, giving him a clear line towards playing time. Look to see how Gohara pitches on May 23 against the Phillies, as he may even get a start on May 29 against the Mets if all goes well in the start and with his mother.