5 years agoOn Sunday, for the second time in three starts, New York Mets pitcher Seth Lugo failed to make it out of the second inning. Lugo went only 1 1/3 innings pitched against the Nationals in the Mets' 15-5 embarrassing loss. Lugo allowed five hits, six earned runs, and two walks while striking out only one in the contest. Lugo's ERA on the season rose to 5.15, while his ERA in his seven games started (in a total of 26 1/3 innings pitched) jumped to 6.15. By comparison, Lugo's ERA as a reliever in 2020 before he was moved to the rotation was 2.61. As had been noted previously, historically, when Lugo has been stretched out as a starter he has been less effective. Coming into 2020, as a relief pitcher, Lugo’s career ERA was 2.53 versus a career ERA of 4.06 as a starter in 31 career starts. Given Lugo's much better results as a reliever, it would not be a surprise if the Mets move Lugo back to the bullpen ahead of the 2021 season. Overall, Lugo finished the season with a bloated 5.15 ERA, a 1.36 WHIP, and a 47:10 K:BB in 36 2/3 innings pitched. If Lugo returns to the bullpen for 2021, his fantasy outlook will gain value, especially in those leagues that reward holds. He can help with ratios and strikeouts and even grab a save or two. If Lugo, however, remains in the rotation, his fantasy outlook will take a hit given his career history and performance as a starter in 2020.--Nick Ritrivi - RotoBaller
Source: MLB.com