RADIO
Nick Anderson 2021 Player Outlook: Dominant Reliever in a Fluid Bullpen
4 years agoAfter a fantastic rookie season that included being shipped across the state from Miami to Tampa, Nick Anderson was ALL the hype for 2020 relief pitchers. He certainly followed it up with an impressive encore, with two wins, six saves, 0.55 ERA, 0.49 WHIP, and 26 K in just 16.1 IP across the shortened 2020 season while finishing as the RP6 in fantasy. Those stellar numbers came in as top six in ERA, top three in FIP, and the league-best WHIP among all relievers. Anderson relied on his fastball more in the shortened season, and it appeared to set up his slider perfectly as he also led all relievers in O-Swing% and registered a filthy 21.5 SwStr%. Despite the dominant stuff, fantasy owners should be aware that Anderson struggled mightily in the postseason, surrendering nine ER in 14.2 IP, while Diego Castillo came up clutch for Kevin Cash and earned three saves. Despite the possible lack of save opportunities compared to other top-10 fantasy relievers, Anderson's current ADP of 146 still offers potential value for the ratios and high strikeout-upside. But if your draft build is aiming for saves specifically, it might be best to look elsewhere.
