Sleeper Watch

Just in case you missed it: Bob Wickman, who was in line for Cleveland’s closer job after missing the entire 2003 season, has been diagnosed with a sprained elbow and won’t return to action until July. In the meantime, David Riske is again expected to step into the role, although newly acquired Jose Jimenez and Scott Stewart are also in the mix should Riske falter.

Don’t be deceived by Riske’s record of five blown saves in 13 opportunities last season. After being named as the Indians’ closer at the end of August, he was golden, racking up seven saves in an equal number of opportunities and striking out 17 hitters in 12.2 innings from August 23 onward. Better yet, he allowed only two walks during that span. His WHIP on the season was a paltry 0.96, and the former 56th round pick’s K/BB ratio was better than 4-to-1. After a dismal 2002 campaign, it seems as if Riske has turned the corner.

If Riske is still available in your league, grab him now, particularly if you were counting on Wickman as an inexpensive source of saves. Wickman may still be worth a pickup if you have several DL slots, but can’t be counted on to pick up where he left off even when he returns. For the time being, David Riske is the man of the hour.