Which Astros pitchers are worthy of being drafted in your fantasy baseball league?
Compared to the list of Astros position players who could make an impact in fantasy baseball, the list of pitchers is comparatively short. Only three Astros hurlers are draft-worthy in most leagues, owing to the team’s relative lack of top-shelf starters.
Keep in mind scoring projections and player rankings are based on ESPN fantasy baseball’s 2017 player rankings and may vary based on your league. Draft projections are based on standard 10 to 12-team leagues.
First off the board: Ken Giles
In fantasy baseball, one stat matters more for relievers than any other: saves. That’s why Will Harris, Luke Gregerson, and Chris Devenski will not garner fantasy consideration unless they start closing games.
After a strong second half of 2016, Giles is in line to rack up the saves. ESPN ranks him No. 111 overall and 10th among relief pitchers. He’ll likely go between rounds 10 and 14, though that may vary depending on how your league values the save. If he pitches like he did down the stretch last year, he’ll provide excellent value.