By Dan O’Shea
Let us start this exercise by admitting that it is impossible to replace Clayton Kershaw.
But, he’s been out for a month, and quite possibly could be out for the rest of the season.
You’re certainly not going to drop him, given there’s still a chance he’ll be back, but you’re going to need another SP on your roster for the foreseeable future.
Here are a few recommendations among SPs who are surging, but not so widely owned:
Adam Conley, MIA: In his first full year in the majors, he’s been inconsistent, and is now past 104 IP, finding himself in the late-season crucible that tests a young arm’s ability to put up with long-term usage.
Having said that, he’s been stunning over the last month, with three wins, 31 strikeouts in 29 IP, a 2.76 ERA and 0.99 WHIP for a contender. Could be the right time to buy.
Available in 59% of Yahoo! leagues.
Brandon McCarthy, LAD: Kershaw’s roster mate will get more chances in Kershaw’s absence.
He’s always an injury concern, and in fact just started his season this month after coming back from Tommy John surgery.
But in a small sample size of three games, he’s been great, with two wins, 22 strikeouts in 15 IP, 1.69 ERA, and magnificent 0.75 WHIP.
Available in 44% of Yahoo! leagues.
Anthony DeSclafani, CIN: Who is tied for the lead in wins over the last month among all SPs?
This guy, that’s who.
The Reds aren’t winning much, but they also haven’t had to do much offensively with DeSclafani on the mound lately. Over the last 30 days, he has 36 strikeouts in 41 IP, 2.59 ERA and 0.98 WHIP.
Available in 41% of Yahoo! leagues.
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Disco Danny O’Shea is our man in fantasyland. He welcomes your comments.
Posted on July 21, 2016