RADIO
Wade Davis 2019 Outlook: Consistency At Cruising Altitude
6 years agoSince becoming a full-time relief pitcher in 2014, few arms have been as consistent as Colorado Rockies closer Wade Davis. In each of the past five seasons, Davis has logged at least 45 appearances while registering a 2.03 ERA, 0.98 WHIP and 122 saves across 306 2/3 innings. Chip in 51 holds for good measure. Despite the achievements, Davis currently wallows as the 14th-ranked reliever. Sure his 4.13 ERA last season at altitude was modestly alarming, but things seem sparkly under the hood. His xFIP (3.63) and K/BB (3.0) remain stellar, while a 67% LOB% appears unreasonably low. Davis possesses three quality pitches that all grade above average, highlighted by one of the best cutters in baseball. The Rockies have the pieces for a run at the NL West, so Davis should have ample opportunities. Scheduled to make $16 million in 2019 and a supporting bullpen that isn’t immediately threatening, it’s unlikely his ninth-inning role will be usurped. While Coors Field will always be a daunting fantasy risk for pitchers, closers have enjoyed success. With top-shelf closers coming off the board over 50 picks earlier, Davis is an ideal RP1 for fantasy players prioritizing other needs in drafts. Consistency at a discount is always a decent bet.
