Rafael Montero (SP/RP, NYM) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in NL-Only Leagues / Dynasty Leagues

ANALYSIS: The New York Mets are notoriously known as being one of the most indecisive franchises in the history of sports. However, you as a fantasy owner do not have the luxury of patience. This is where the acquisition of Rafael Montero comes into play. After Zack Wheeler went down for the season with Tommy John surgery, the Mets promptly decided to make Dillon Gee their 5th starter without hesitation. Since that announcement however, Rafael Montero made the situation interesting by having an incredible spring training. He only gave up 4 ER in 17 IP with a near 4:1 K:BB ratio. Add on a 2.12 ERA and a paltry .177 BAA, and Montero pitched better than most pitchers in all of MLB this spring.

Gee also pitched well with a 2.73 ERA and only allowing 8 ER in 26 IP. However Gee has a 12:10 K:BB ratio this spring and has been on the trading block since last season. Pee Wee Herman agrees that we should connect the dots here. La la la la. Spring training stats are often taken with a grain of salt. Considering Montero's struggles last year, that notion is justified. He gave up 8 HRs in 44 IP with 23 BB with an ERA north of 4.00.

Montero will have the ability to fine tune his skills in the rotation or the bullpen and should be in line for spot starts at the very least given the health of their rotation. If Gee gets traded or if an injury happens, Montero is sure to have a spot in the rotation. If he starts in the bullpen, he should provide value with ERA, WHIP, K and possible Holds totals to your fantasy team. If you have the room for a starting pitcher in waiting, and or the patience to wait for Manager Terry Collins and GM Sandy Alderson to pull the trigger, go grab Montero off the waiver wire.