CFT 82 - SP Roster Decisions

In this episode of Pitcher List Fantasy Baseball, Nick Pollock and guest Eno delve into critical roster decisions for 12-team fantasy leagues, focusing on under-the-radar pitchers with high upside. The central debate centers on whether to roster Griffin Jacks or Zebby Matthews, with Pollock favoring Jacks due to his improved command, evolving pitch mix, and ability to survive the transition to a starter’s role—despite recent efficiency concerns. They explore a provocative theory: that pitchers with below-average velocity (like 92-93 mph fastballs) may now be more effective because hitters are overly adjusted to the new 95+ mph norm, creating timing mismatches. This theory is supported by anomalies like Kamar Rocker’s 360 array and Bryce Elder’s success despite poor stuff. The conversation shifts to buy-low opportunities, with Pollock championing Gavin Williams (now a high-strike-rate pitcher in Cleveland) and Roki Sasaki (whose splitter command is finally clicking), while questioning Aaron Nola’s declining command against lefties. The episode ends with a philosophical digression on baseball’s future, arguing that AI-driven systems like ABS (Automated Ball Strike) should remain human-augmented rather than fully automated—preserving the game’s emotional core and human judgment.