Lightning in a Fastball

While it is said that lightning never strikes twice, it is about to in Seattle. Already armed with an elite ace in Felix Hernandez, they could have another one on his way. Michael Pineda has made the team, making the Mariners look both bold and brilliant for making the right call and ignoring the arbitration clock. They are doing it because he looks ready.

Everything that I can find on this kid just screams about his potential. His minor league numbers were dominate until Tacoma last season, with a bloated ERA the only real problem there. At 6'7 and 260 pounds, his size is an intimidating as his major league ready fastball and slider. He does bring the high heat, but what sets this young man apart is that he can do it with poise and control.

After an impressive spring, he won a rotation spot in Seattle. Now he will be tested by fire. Like King Felix, there will be an adjustment period, but I see more than serviceable fantasy numbers with good strikeouts. Wins could be an issue, but in the best case scenario he could produce the numbers that Mat Latos put up last year. There is a couple of flags, a 2009 elbow injury and a near certainty that he will be shutdown in September. Both are not enough to avoid how good he might be this season.

If there is any question that the last pitcher on your roster might not be better, you need to see how fast you can pickup Pineda. Yes, just because the upside is beautiful. Like Latos last year, it is the kind of move that can make a difference. If you do not, it could be the near miss that bothers you all year.