Sleeper of the Week

Gone are the glory days in Cleveland, when the Indians dominated the AL Central. The faces of Jim Thome, Manny Ramirez, and Bartolo Colon no longer can be seen at Jacobs Field. Cleveland decided to go younger and cheaper, so now the Tribe’s hopes ride on players such as Jody Gerut, Matt Lawton, and CC Sabathia. The Indians’ minor league system was stocked with talent, and now those prospects are slowing becoming stars. The latest up-and-comer to take the mound is left-handed pitcher Jason Stanford.

Stanford made his first start for the Indians on July 6th, 2003, yielding five hits, four walks, and one earned run in five innings. He then bounced back and forth between the minors and brief relief appearances for Cleveland. His first major league victory came against the Blue Jays, to whom he gave up five hits, two walks, and just one run. The young lefty finished the year with a 1-3 record and a 3.60 ERA in 50 innings of work, a decent effort for any rookie pitcher.

Now, in 2004, Stanford has compiled an ERA of 0.82 and five strikeouts in 11 innings, and looks like he might be on his way to eventually becoming the next ace in Cleveland. He might also be a decent pickup for your fantasy pitching staff, particularly in deep keeper leagues. He will not get you an overwhelming number of strikeouts, but his low ERA and WHIP will help, as will his wins. As a bonus to some fantasy owners, Stanford can be played at SP, RP, and P in many leagues.

Unfortunately, we may have to wait a bit longer before being able to evaluate Jason Stanford’s potential any further: on April 16, he went on the 15-day disabled list after injuring his forearm while warming up in his last start. He is scheduled to return to the Indians staff on May 1. Even though he will not be starting for while, Stanford could be worth a look when he returns. He will probably go under the radar, particularly following this visit to the DL, but his progress is worth keeping an eye on.

Guest sleeper by Jon Michael Cain. More of Daniel’s insights and opinions can be found in the Cafe Forums, where he posts as eftda.