BALLER MOVE: Target ~115
CURRENT ADP: 139
ANALYSIS: After being traded from the Oakland Athletics last season, former Cy Young finalist Sonny Gray arrived with the New York Yankees and returned to the postseason. After a solid August with the Yankees, Gray struggled in September and in the postseason. One very important factor to consider, however, was how much the 28-year-old lacked run support, ranking eighth lowest in the American League in the category.
He was still very susceptible to home runs, surrendering 11 over 11 starts. That especially does not bode well due to his home stadium, which finished ranked second in ballpark factor for home runs. Still, Gray managed to build himself up in other areas, posting an 8.48 K/9 ratio, his best in four years. He may never reach the heights of his 2015 season (where he went 14-7 with a 2.73 ERA), but he has settled into being a solid pitcher in real life and fantasy.
In terms of fantasy, however, expect his run support to alter for the better, with home runs allowed remaining his biggest enemy. Just like the Yankees plan to use him, fantasy owners should look to Gray as a third option at starting pitcher who will be available later in the draft.
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