Vance Worley (SP, PIT) - Waiver Wire Analysis

BALLER MOVE: Add in Deeper Leagues and NL-only leagues

OWNED IN: 6% of Fleaflicker leagues

ANALYSIS: Although his rec-specs might fool you into thinking he's an old man, Vance Worley is only four years removed from his fantastic 2011 season in which he finished third for NL rookie of the year. In his 2011 season Worley finished with a 3.01 ERA and a 3.32 FIP (Fielder Independent Pitching). FIP isolates a pitcher's sole performance and indicates how well he pitched without the influence of fielders. According to FanGraphs, an average FIP is 3.80, while any number at 3.50 or below is considered an above average figure.

Based on Worley's pitching isolated from his fielders, and his increased K/9, Worley is a safe bet to get his ERA down and his chances for wins up. Last season Worley finished with a 2.85 ERA and a 3.44 FIP. To start the 2015 campaign, Worley has a 4.00 ERA and a 3.47 FIP, while producing 7.5 K/9, his highest mark since his highly touted rookie season. In five major league seasons, Worley has finished with an above average FIP three times (2010 - 3.16, 2011 - 3.32, 2014 - 3.44) and a league average FIP once (2012 - 3.85).

Worley will produce for a fantasy baseball manager in most pitching categories, and he is a sneaky streaming option that is available in most leagues. Give him a try off the waiver wire in deeper leagues if you're looking to round out your pitching staff. He's a low risk add with upside.