Clay Buchholz (SP, BOS) - Waiver Wire Pickups

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OWNED IN: 41% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: Even when a pitcher struggles, the good ones always seem to figure it out. Clay Buchholz has always had electric stuff and if there was ever a time to buy in again that time is now.

The Boston Red Sox are struggling and everyone knows it. What people are failing to realize is that hidden amongst the wreckage of the Red Sox Nation ship is a pitcher doing yeoman's work. Buchholz's 6-6 record does not do him justice and neither does his 3.48 ERA.

The key stats that have all come down for Buchholz this year are his FIP, WHIP, BB/9 and K/9. The FIP is at a career low of 2.66 and his WHIP has normalized out to a 1.23. The walks are down and the strikeouts are back up to elite levels.

He is not relying as heavily on his four seam fastball as much which has made him less predictable. Over the first 7 years in Boston, Buchholz averaged throwing his four seam fastball around 45% of the time. It resulted in more home runs and hits given up and less strikeouts. It made him very hittable. Now he is throwing the four seam fastball at a staggering 17% as he is incorporating more of his cutter and changeup.

The velocity is back to varying levels as well, ranging from 92 MPH with his fastball to 79 MPH with his changeup. It has made a world of difference to his numbers and success. Buchholz is putting it all together this year and if he's available in any of your leagues he deserves to be added.