Shane Greene (SP, DET) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in All Leagues

OWNED IN: 18% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: Shane Greene was considered an afterthought in a three team trade last season between the Dbacks, Yankees and Tigers. The Yankees got their next everyday SS in Didi Gregorius, the Diamondbacks got the best prospect of the bunch in Robbie Ray and the Tigers got Greene, who was considered a mere possibility to make their Opening Day rotation as the fifth starter. Well, who's an afterthought now? He made quick work of the Twins in his first start of the season, giving up 4 hits and a walk to go with 5 K and 0 ER in 8 IP. The run support should continue and is a definite sign of things to come.

Shane Greene sported a career 29-43 record with a pedestrian 4.39 ERA during 6 seasons in the minor leagues before being called up with the Yankees in 2014. What caught the eye of the Tigers when they made the deal to acquire him was his ability to not issue tons of walks. His highest total of BB in one season was 68 in 2011 while playing for the High-A Charleston Riverdogs.

Greene will induce a ton of ground ball outs (with much help from SS wizard Jose Iglesias), which should make up for his low K totals. He works his slider to his advantage on almost any count and goes after hitters early. His 3.04 P/PA (pitches per plate appearance) demonstrates his ability to go through batters efficiently and keep his pitch count low. His BABIP rate is still hovering above .300, but he provides a low-risk waiver wire option on a team that is going to provide ample run support throughout the season.