6 years agoShane Bieber broke onto the fantasy scene in 2018 due to elite command, and the results, mixed with an excellent team context, demonstrated that he is an arm that fantasy owners want to add to their staffs. With the continued rumors of starting pitching leaving Cleveland, Bieber seems to be a lock for the Cleveland rotation to start 2019. And, this is not just a factor of elimination, as a strong 2018 debut that should give owners some real interest. In 114.2 innings Bieber posted an ERA of 4.55, but a FIP of 3.23, to compliment 11 wins. The calling card for Bieber in the minors was his walk rate, and he delivered with only 1.81 BB/9 with Cleveland. The other good news was the stuff playing up, as there was some concern about Bieber missing bats in the Bigs, but he still posted 9.26 K/9 over the full year. The limiting factor on a breakout for Bieber will be his pitch mix, as most of his offerings, last year, were fastballs and sliders. He only threw his curveball 16% of the time, and this needs to jump to keep hitters off balance. While he does not need to change to be a capable arm, this is where the growth can come for even more return. Rotoballer has him ranked as the 55th overall starting pitcher, and with an ADP at 160, owners can still get surplus value on the draft position. In fact, this writer will be drafting him earlier when possible as the ratios alone are worth adding.--Jon Denzler - RotoBaller