Roto Riteup: September 20, 2015

Today’s Roto Riteup provides some white hot first hand scouting notes.

On today’s agenda:
1. Peter O’Brien and Catching
2. Various news and notes
3. Streaming Pitcher Options

Peter O’Brien and Catching
The Diamondbacks are going to give Peter O’Brien the chance to move back behind the plate next spring. O’Brien, never considered to be even an average defender, had to move to the outfield this year after having issues tossing the ball back to the pitcher. O’Brien has natural power and could blossom hitting bombs in Arizona, and his offensive line would of course be more valuable if he could hold his own behind the plate.

For the record, myself and members of the FanGraphs team saw him play catcher in Spring Training, and he didn’t look to be the disaster that some reports have led us to believe. The Diamondbacks are going to leave the decision up to O’Brien, allowing him to play where he is most comfortable, and I’m not going to speculate about where that may be. Even if he doesn’t play behind the plate full-time, having the confidence to do so every once and awhile would not only allow his team flexibility, but could give fantasy owners some sweet eligibility.

Various news and notes

Taylor Jungmann wasn’t his best self yesterday against the Reds, giving up five earned in as many innings. In his last three outings, the young right-hander has allowed 15 earned and has given up five homers. While it’s easy to suggest that perhaps Jungmann is wearing down — as he’s thrown about 20 more innings than he did last year — his velocity readings have remained stable. Perhaps it’s a case of trying to overthrow to maintain his velo and losing command in the process, but that would be pure speculation.

Staying with the Brew Crew, Khris Davis had to leave yesterday’s game after tweaking his ankle. Expect him to miss today’s game.

Oakland catcher Josh Phegley has been diagnosed with a concussion, and I would not be surprised if the A’s sit him out for the rest of the season as a procaution. Phegley has been a great partner to Stephen Vogt this year, hitting .249/.300/.449 with nine homers in less than 250 plate appearances. Phegley has hit .276 against lefties this year, and will likely hold the same platoon role next season.

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Streaming Pitcher Options
If you enjoy streaming pitchers or play DFS, tune into the Roto Riteup for recommendations each and every day.

A pitcher for today: Josh Tomlin vs CWS (John Danks)
As long as you’re not afraid of allowing a homer, Tomlin can deliver.

A pitcher for tomorrow: Eduardo Rodriguez vs TBA (Chris Archer)
It’s not the easiest path to a W, but options on this day are limited.