Sean Manaea 2021 Player Outlook: Quality Hidden In Plain Sight
4 years agoOakland A's starting pitcher Sean Manaea had a successful season, yet the statistics will cause many fantasy managers to gloss over him. In 11 starts, he finished with four wins, 45 strikeouts, 4.50 ERA, and a 1.20 WHIP in 54 innings. It would be easy to move along looking for something more exciting; however, this negligent attitude will only benefit one of your opponents. Manaea had a rough start to the season, but his most recent performance is what should be at the forefront of your mind. In his last six starts, Manaea had a 3.49 FIP with an 18% K-BB in 34 innings against offensively potent teams including the Dodgers, Rockies (in Coors), Astros, and Padres. Make no mistake, he is a control specialist that excels at limiting walks (3%) and keeping the ball on the ground (50%). Manaea modified his repertoire pushing his sinker (54% usage) to the front of the pack, though it only had a 16% strikeout rate. He also found success through health as he is now another year removed from shoulder surgery. If Manaea can maintain his health and replicate his success in 2021, fantasy managers that select him near his ADP of 245 will have quite a bargain.