Found January 29, 2012 on Baseball Professor: Yardbarker Blogger Network
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If you lived in New England you would think Jonathan Papelbon sucked, but it’s quite the opposite as he’s been one of the best closers over the last six years. Well, Boston fans finally got their wish and Papelbon is now pitching in the NL East. First, he should benefit from the switch just based on not having to face the Yankees offense 18 times per year. Papelbon is a high-strikeout reliever with good control who, in his worst year, is probably as good as an average Brian Wilson. That’s pretty damn good. Best case scenario: Best closer in fantasy Similar players: Mariano Rivero (NYY), John Axford (MIL), Craig Kimbrel (ATL) Worst case scenario: Brian Wilson (SF) Strengths Strikeouts, consistency, league. We’ve covered the strikeouts, but keep in mind that his 16.8 SwStr% was tops in the majors among qualifying relievers. He’s been doing this for six seasons now so you shouldn’t expect any surprises. Weaknesses Fly balls. Papelbon has only had on...
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