Chad Billingsley will return this week when he starts Tuesday against Atlanta. He hasn’t pitched in the MLB since 2013, and he can give fantasy owners a little hope in case the season hasn’t started out well.
He will draw a tough assignment in his first outing, going against the Braves and Shelby Miller. Miller has a 2.17 ERA so far this season and would be a good option as a pitcher. However, he’s likely owned by all fantasy teams in every league.
Billingsley gives owners an aura of mystery. If he returns to the form of 2013, he would be a pick-up that could bolster a rotation into the fantasy league playoffs. If he can’t stay healthy, he could be a disaster.
He’s coming off multiple elbow surgeries.
He didn’t fare bad in rehab starts, with far more strikeouts than walks. During his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he showed his ability to throw strikeouts, limit walks and pick up wins.
From 2006 to 2013, he collected 81 wins, compared to 61 losses. His ERA was 3.65 with 1,037 strikeouts, compared to 523 walks. If his starts continue on schedule, Billingsley also would give fantasy owners two starts likely next week.
He’s worth a flier in case there’s an opening on your rotation. If he doesn’t do well, he can be dumped in a week. If he returns to form, he could be the difference for a fantasy team.
