Archie Bradley (SP, ARI) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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ANALYSIS: Highly touted prospects are often proclaimed as saviors toward their organization. These same prospects are hyped ad nauseum and are often rushed to the big leagues. The Arizona Diamondbacks are hoping that Archie Bradley was worth the wait.

Bradley spent 4 seasons refining his craft holding opposing hitters to an impressive .210 BAA over that span. He also compiled a 3.14 ERA with a modest 2:1 K/BB ratio. He finally got his chance to shine in Phoenix pitching opposite one of the best pitchers in baseball, Clayton Kershaw. Not only did Bradley outpitch Kershaw, he opened eyes across the country with his impressive outing. Bradley gave up one hit over six innings striking out six.

The high walk total could be a concern if it is not controlled early. He threw 112 pitches in his start versus the Dodgers and only 66 of them went for strikes. For now the Diamondbacks don't seem overly concerned with running Bradley out every fifth day. It is easy to overreact to one great start but Bradley's success came against a top lineup. In a year where the Diamondbacks needed a spark out of their young pitching staff, Bradley has stepped up and lit that flame.

Solid but not dominant strikeout totals should be expected from Bradley with low ERA and BAA rates to go along with the occasional blowup when he allows too many walks and HR in the small Chase field. As long as the run support is there and he can limit his walks, Bradley could become the ace that Arizona and your fantasy lineup are always in need of. Strike while the iron is hot and scoop up Bradley.