beckett or prior

[baseballer]

whos better in your opinion?

[mkoss]

Without a doubt, 100% PRIOR! As far as raw skill goes I think Beckett would edge out Prior, but Prior has such a presence on the mound and is so mature already that he is much better than Beckett.

[Arlo]

A year ago, I would have gone with Beckett, but now I'd have to say Prior seems to have benefitted more from the 2002 season. Plus... no blisters!

[mkoss]

I think this is the 3rd reference to Beckett's blisters I've seen you make, Arlo. Did you get burned by him or something?

[Arlo]

You got me! Although, actually, it's just such an odd story that it would have stuck in my head even if I hadn't had him on my team... Here you have a guy with as much potential as any pitcher to come into the league in recent years, and he's slowed down by such a seemingly trivial ailment. It's a strange game...

[trevisc]

I got burned by Beckett in 3 leagues. Prior is 1500% better!

[kashikis]

personally i like prior more than beckett even though in the long run (total career wise) i think beckett may edge him out but prior is maturing much faster and will prove a great value to any one who drafts him this year

[mkoss]

Or has him as a hold-over from last year for $15

[hbj79]

Prior is the better player and roto prospect. The reason is his SO potential. 147 in 116 innings. That means he can be a 300SO pitcher and obviously that is rare. Beckett is good at about 1 an inning but he will max at 250SO's in his best season. Also remember Beckett did have shoulder trouble a couple years ago. It may be nothing but doesn't hurt to go with the guy that has always been healthy.

[YankFan51]

Keep in mind, Beckett was pitching this season without the use of his best pitch, the curveball. Not only did that blister sideline his season, but it limited his effectiveness. He's got an uncanny build and maturity level for a pitcher his age. I see him and Prior being just as good.