Sleeper of the Week

Jesse Foppert’s arrival in the majors last year had fantasy owners drooling in anticipation. San Francisco’s top prospect was expected to become the next big thing, but like so many young pitchers, his transition to the majors wasn’t as smooth as many were hoping.

In 23 games, Foppert struggled to a won-lost record of 8-9, posting a 5.03 ERA despite playing in one of baseball’s most pitcher-friendly parks. He did manage to strike out 101 batters in 111 innings pitched, and at times showed flashes of greatness, but overall, his debut was a distinct disappointment, and fantasy interest in the 23-year-old quickly waned.

When he underwent Tommy John surgery in September, sidelining him for the entire 2004 season, that interest dropped to zero.

Keeper and dynasty leaguers shouldn’t forget about him entirely, though. Foppert is expected to be back on the mound next year, and pitchers with his potential don’t come around often. As a reminder, Foppert’s minor league ERA from 2001 to 2003 was a minuscule 1.53, and he recorded 371 strikeouts in 288 IP. If he can harness that talent and remain healthy, Foppert may yet become the pitcher we were all hoping for. If you have room on your bench or DL, he’s worth stashing away for 2005.