Felipe Paulino emerging with value
Kansas City Royals starting pitcher Felipe Paulino pitches to Yankees' Derek Jeter during the first inning. (May 5, 2012) Credit: AP
If you're in a weekly league and like to acquire two-start pitchers, the Royals' Felipe Paulino is someone to get this week. He has two starts on the road against the Yankees and Orioles. The Yankees are struggling right now and Paulino has already had an excellent start this season against the Yankees.
I'd add Paulino in 12 team leagues or more in general since he's available in many leagues. He began the season on the disabled list and doesn't have a high profile. Paulino has always had the ability to get strikeouts. The key for him has been better control.
In 139 1/3 innings last season between relief and starting with the Rockies and Royals, Paulino had an 8.59 K/9, 3.55 BB/9, and a 4.46 ERA. A 3.69 FIP shows he pitched better. Paulino has a good fastball, averaging almost 96 .m.p.h. with the pitch.
In three starts this season spanning 18 2/3 innings, Paulino has allowed 16 hits, five walks and struck out 21. He is 1-1 with a 1.93 ERA and 1.13 WHIP. As long as he continues to pound the strike zone, Paulino can be successful.
