Jordan Walden - Fantasy Baseball Profile

Jordan Walden - Fantasy Baseball Profile and Scouting Report. Includes player profile information, fantasy baseball analysis, stat projections, and dynasty keeper league outlook.

Jordan Walden
Height: 6-5
Weight: 235
Born: November 16, 1987
Draft: 2006 - 12th round
Position: Relief Pitcher

Player Profile:
Previously one of the best starting pitching prospects in the entire minor leagues, nagging injuries forced Walden to move to the bullpen as a relief pitcher for the 2010 season. Armed with a power fastball that can easily hit the upper 90s including being clocked as high as 100 mph, Walden's future is pointed directly at becoming a late game relief pitcher and likely closer in the majors.

Fantasy Baseball Analysis:
Jordan Walden offers fantasy baseball teams the potential to become an above average closer with excellent strikeout ability. Equipped with a power fastball that can easily touch the upper 90s mph range, combined with an excellent slider, Walden easily has the talent and pitching repertoire to dominate hitters. After making his major league debut in 2010, Walden immediately showcased his ability as he racked up 23 strikeouts and a 2.35 ERA over 15 innings pitched. A high strikeout ratio should be one of the key calling cards to Walden in fantasy baseball leagues, as he could easily become a 9+ strikeout per 9 innings pitched relief pitcher. Over the course of 60 innings pitched, Walden has the ability to tally 75 strikeouts, while maintaining an ERA under 3.00.

Fantasy Baseball MLB Player Comparison: Daniel Bard

Dynasty Keeper League Outlook:
After switching from starting pitcher to relief pitcher in 2010, Jordan Walden has emerged as a potentially dominate closer in the majors. Offering an exceptional strikeout ratio, Walden is equipped to become a very successful and possible all-star relief pitcher over the next several years. On the downside, Walden does possess a max effort delivery when he pitches, which could result in arm problems down the road. However with Walden no longer a starting pitcher, his likely permanent role as a relief pitcher should no doubt reduce the wear and tear on his arm and easily give him a better chance at staying healthy over his career.

Stat Projections:
Over the course of 60 innings pitched as a relief pitcher, Walden has the ability to tally 75 strikeouts, while maintaining an ERA around 3.00. During the prime of his career, Walden could become a near elite closer while posting stats in the range of 70 innings pitched, 95 strikeouts, and a sub 2.00 ERA.