If you’re still fighting for a playoff spot or looking to position yourself better for the playoffs, consider Minnesota Twins pitcher Tyler Duffey for a back-end start this week.
Duffey recently was called up from Triple-A Rochester, and suffered through a difficult opening game. Duffey surrendered six earned runs in only two innings of work against Toronto on Aug. 5.
Despite the rough outing, the Twins stayed with Duffey for another start, and he showed enough to earn another start Aug. 20.
Through six innings of work, Duffey allowed one hit for no runs. Even better, he hurled seven strikeouts, showing much of what he displayed in the Minor Leagues.
His strikeout per nine inning average during four seasons in the Minor Leagues was 7.4, while his walks per nine inning average was 1.8. During his two starts this season, he’s allowed seven walks, so that’s a bit concerning in the early going.
However, he hasn’t had a problem with that in the Minor Leagues, making it unlikely his walk numbers will continue to climb.
Duffey is firmly on the waiver wire and may not be someone to keep long-term. However, for this week, he offers a strong case to be picked up by fantasy baseball owners.
