RADIO
CURRENT ADP: 48
RANKINGS STATUS: Undervalued
Analysis: When a dominant, veteran left handed pitcher makes the jump from American League to National League it is always an intriguing endeavor. That is the case this year for the new ace of the Chicago Cubs Jon Lester. Lester has been masterful in the American League throughout his career while posting some outstanding fantasy numbers. These numbers will likely be more impressive this year as the south paw begins to match up with some weak-hitting National League lineups.
In 2014 Lester was one of the only bright spots on a bad Red Sox team before being traded to the Athletics. In 219.2 innings, Lester posted a 16-11 record with a 2.46 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, and a dazzling K/BB ratio of 4.58. Those are the types of numbers fantasy owners dream of. Lester’s FIP of 2.80 helps legitimize his great year.
It is hard to call a pitcher underrated when he is universally being ranked among the top 15 starting pitchers for 2015, but Lester’s potential exceeds some of the pitchers being ranked ahead. The switch to the National League and the opportunity to face pitchers is a big deal, especially since he's pitched in the very unkind, hitter friendly American League East for the majority of his career.
The transition should only boost Lester’s numbers and in my eyes he should be ranked ahead of fellow National League pitchers like, Stephen Strasburg, Zach Grienke and even World Series MVP Madison Bumgarner.
The 31-year-old lefty signed a big time deal with the Cubs this offseason in hopes of being the anchor that can finally get that Cubs ship to the promise land. Lester has a chance to have a great start to his season. The cold air is blowing in on Wrigley Field in the early months and some National League hitters will be getting their first glimpse of his stuff. Do not be afraid to reach on Jon Lester.
Don’t forget to read all of RotoBaller’s 2015 fantasy baseball rankings and rankings analysis for every position to help prepare for your fantasy drafts. Let’s win some leagues!
