STARTERS: Very early observations, 2018

It's easy to panic after your SP has a terrible start or two during the first week of the season. It can be similarly dangerous to fall in love with a pitcher who gives you good stats if they were produced without any underlying skill support.

Keeping in mind that we're dealing with tiny data samples, let's take a look at some extreme early season performances by putting them into the context of our preseason outlooks.
 

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Chris Archer (RHP, TAM) already has been dumped or traded in some leagues after the 6.55 ERA and 1.45 WHIP he posted during his first two starts. However, underneath those marks is a 137 BPV, 15% SwK%, and 68% FpK%. Archer has been victimized by a crazy 37% H%, 57% S%, and 22% hr/f in the early-going....

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Starting Pitchers

The underlying command gains of Cade Povich in the second half bode well for his ability to take a step forward in 2026.
Sep 6 2025 3:10am
Sean Manaea's ugly August ERA hid an impressive foundation of skills that could lead him to a much better showing in September.
Aug 30 2025 3:09am
Shane Baz's volatility can be traced back to some significant struggles against lefty bats.
Aug 23 2025 3:09am
Andrew Abbott's shiny surface stats are hiding a shaky foundation of skills when he pitches at home.
Aug 16 2025 3:09am
Cristopher Sanchez's elite second half results have been driven by similarly elite underlying skills.
Aug 9 2025 3:09am

Tools