Fantasy Baseball Sleeper: Andy Pettitte

Published: 27^th Mar 12 9:32 pm

by Adam McGill
adammcgill

RANT It!

Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE

By Adam McGill

Last week the Yankees made a huge splash right before spring training closed, by signing former starting pitcher, Andy Pettitte, to a one-year, 2.5 million dollar contract. The 39-year old had not pitched since 2010, where he amazingly went 11-3 with a 3.28 ERA, but he has looked phenomenal this spring after missing all of 2011. Pettitte is still throwing in the mid-90’s so arm strength does not appear to be a problem, and he looks to be in just as good of shape as when he left the game. “AP” will be an outstanding sleeper pitcher to grab late in fantasy drafts, especially in the Yanks’ crowded rotation. People seem to be shying away from the veteran due to his age and position uncertainly, but make sure not to overlook this 3-time All-Star. New York is not going to bring a player of his magnitude and price tag, just to be a middle reliever. It has already been rumored that New York is already trying to shop current fifth starter, Freddy Garcia in order to make room for when Pettitte returns. He is unlikely to pitch until May or June at the latest, but he will be coming back to an open rotation spot. In deeper leagues, grab him late and stash him for when he comes back. He will be a hot commodity around the All-Star break, so make sure you get him on your roster before that.