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Tanner Houck 2021 Player Outlook: Huge Strikeout Potential with Risks
4 years agoBoston Red Sox rookie starting pitcher Tanner Houck finally made his debut in 2021, albeit a cameo appearance. He only made three starts, but two of them were against the Braves and Yankees, making his results even more impressive at face value. In 17 innings, he compiled a 0.53 ERA (3.25 FIP) 0.88 WHIP. Most of his success stemmed from 33% strikeout and 47% ground-ball rates. While there can be some excitement from his brief appearance, there are also some red flags that he will need to correct to maximize his potential. First are the free passes as he allowed a 14% walk rate. Second, it might benefit him to expand his arsenal so batters aren't restricted to choosing between a fastball (62%) or a slider (36%), though his slider did generate a 56% strikeout rate. Also, we can't expect that he'll leave runners on base at a 96% rate. Currently, there's no room for Houck in the Red Sox rotation to start 2021. Admittedly, the staff isn't a collection of all-star pitchers. If he intends to obtain a rotation spot, Houck will need to expand his arsenal and limit the free walks. If you have the bench space to wait to see if a spot opens, his ADP of 391 could be justifiable.
