Sleeper Watch

Poor Jeremy Affeldt. Following a 2004 campaign marred by injury, control trouble and uncertainty about his role in the Royals’ pitching staff, things seemed to be looking up again this season, but after pitching in just five games, Kansas City’s closer is on the shelf again with a strained groin. It’s not yet clear when Affeldt will be able to return; in the meantime, consider grabbing Mike MacDougal for some cheap saves.

MacDougal, the 25th overall pick in the 1999 draft, has served as the Royals’ fireman before and performed well, saving 27 games in 2003 and making the All Star team. His ratios (1.50 WHIP, 4.08 ERA) that season weren’t anything to write home about, but his saves – always a scarce commodity in roto leagues – were enough to give him solid fantasy value.

Two years later, MacDougal will again try to make the most of the opportunity. He earned his first save of the season in Kansas City’s 6-5 win over Detroit on April 15, retiring Carlos Guillen for the final out. His overall numbers so far this year look reasonably good (3.38 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, .222 BAA), but of course, 5.1 IP is far too small a sample size to base any judgment on. One thing that might be worth keeping an eye on is MacDougal’s control. So far, he has allowed four walks while fanning just one batter.

Nonetheless, Mike MacDougal looks like a solid pickup for any team looking to bolster its bullpen. Having gone undrafted in most leagues, he may still be available on the waiver wire; if he is, claim him before one of your rivals does.