Sleeper Watch

If you have a minor league system in your keeper or dynasty league, he’s probably already snatched up by now – at least he should be (hint, hint). However, for those of you in non-keepers or keepers where rookies are claimed in a free agent free-for-all, Anthony Reyes could be a nice sleeper going into next season. In his big-league debut earlier this year for the Cardinals against Milwaukee, he posted the following line:

After reaching the seventh, Reyes was pulled when he allowed one baserunner in what would be his final inning of work. Oh, did I mention he picked up a win, too? Yeah, if he’s healthy he should be in line for several more of those as barring injury (knock on wood), he will more than likely be in the St. Louis rotation to start the ‘06 season. In case you’re wondering, his line in his next start at AAA Memphis was:

The guy, obviously, has great stuff, but what impressed me most was his poise on the mound. He didn’t really get into any jams against the Brewers, but it didn’t look like the pressure of the moment got to him in the least. He should get a quick look this September as a possible spot starter so the Cardinals can set their rotation for the postseason, but not much more than that. He’s not a King Felix caliber prospect, but then again, how many are? If he remains healthy, he should be a great end of the rotation guy for deep mixed or NL-only leagues as he will be in line for wins and will post Ks at a higher rate than your average fourth or fifth starters. The only knock on Reyes has been his health, so if he can stay away from the arm troubles, the only hurdle he will have to clear is the inconsitency that come with being a young pitcher.