RADIO
Kendall Graveman came to Oakland in the blockbuster deal that the Athletics and the Blue Jays organized for Josh Donaldson. The 2015 season was our first chance to see what Graveman could do on the mound. After being thrown to the wolves in the powerful American League West, Graveman held his own to compile a 4.05 ERA in 115.2 IP; not a bad start to his career, but nothing amazing.
One thing to consider when thinking about adding Kendall Graveman to your roster is the unfortunate pairing of his elevated GB% and Marcus Semien’s defense. Unlike Sonny Gray and Jesse Hahn, who have much more strikeout potential, Graveman uses his control to get outs on the ground rather than whiffs. With so many opportunities for the errant SS to incorrectly field Graveman’s ground balls, the potential for his WHIP to increase is always looming.
While Graveman is slated third in the rotation, he does not have the incredible stuff that will make him an eventual ace. For now, Graveman makes his home at a pitcher-friendly ballpark and may have the chance to steal a few wins every now and then.
