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The Atlanta Braves are sitting atop the NL East with an 8-4 record. Freddie Freeman and Justin Upton have carried the offense with their eight home runs. The pitching staff has a group of players with a knack for winning. The one surprise on this Braves team has been recent-signee Aaron Harang.
Harang signed with the Braves a week before the regular season has started. With limited starts in Spring Training, Harang wasn’t expected to be the pitcher he once was. However, that is completely opposite of what has happened. Harang holds a 2-1 record in 18.2 innings with 17 strikeouts.
Harang is one of the best pitchers available on the waiver wire. He has a 0.96 ERA and 0.80 WHIP in three starts. Harang has so far held opposing batters to a .145 average. As the Braves No. 3 starter, he has three consistent outings with at least six innings pitched each time.
If the schedule plays out right, Harang will face the New York Mets and Miami Marlins in his next two starts. The Mets have a collective .207 average, which could give Harang a fourth consecutive great start. The Marlins, on the other hand, have hit for a .264 average with 10 home runs and 58 RBI and could give Harang some trouble.
Harang is available in 70 percent of ESPN.com leagues. He is a good streaming option, especially in his next start. If he pitches well again, then the next decision will be his upcoming start against the Marlins. The numbers say the Marlins are a great hitting team, but Harang has been very dependable.
If you have a struggling veteran or a rookie who has yet to explode, then drop them for Harang. Hitters are easier to find throughout the season.
Bill Pivetz is a fantasy sports writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @BPiv_Sports.
