#6 Option: The Struggling Ace – Jordan Zimmermann
Source: Greg Fiume/Getty Images North America
2015 has seen the typically steadfast Washington Nationals ace Jordan Zimmermann start his season to uncharacteristically disappointing results. The 28-year-old right-handed pitcher is carrying a 4.20 ERA through his first seven starts. But a deeper look into Zimmermann’s numbers tells a different story, as the porous Nationals defense playing behind him (30 errors in 35 games played, second worst in the MLB) justify his significantly better FIP of 3.41 and provide hope that Zimmermann will return to form. Zimmermann has been a portrait of consistent excellence for years now, and has rarely gotten the appreciation he probably deserves.
Like Cueto, he too is entering a walk year along with fellow rotation mate Doug Fister. With the Nationals already possessing 6 strong major league starters without counting phenom prospect Lucas Giolito, the team could look to move from their surplus to fill a need in their lineup. But like the Reds, they will almost certainly wait until the deadline if they do make a move. Although there is a real chance they choose to hold onto him, they have at least had preliminary discussions about a Zimmermann trade.
2015 Stats: 4.20 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, 5.3 K/9, 2.0 BB/9
Probability: Low
Impact: High
Risk: Low
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