RADIO
Gio Gonzalez Sparkled In 2017
7 years agoIn season of injuries, Gio Gonzalez remained steady as a rock for his team and fantasy owners. The pitcher finally made good on the promise he showed as a member of the A’s and finished sixth in Cy Young voting. He gave the team 201 innings and 32 starts, giving him at least 31 starts over the last three years. He punched out 188 batters, his highest total in four years. And his 1.179 WHIP was a career low. The one red flag continues to be his walks. He walked 79 batters, which brought his BB/9 rate to 3.5. He’s hit that exact number of walks per nine innings every other year dating back to 2013. Last season was also the second year in a row where he gave up nearly a home run a game, which is reflected in his xFIP of 4.24. But his value as one of the few lefties in the division is undeniable. Given the fact that he’s 32 and in a walk year, he represents a great sell high candidate. Flipping him for a younger up-and-coming version of himself would be the prudent move for players in dynasty leagues.
