3. High-Seas Piracy
Despite putting up a 5.19 ERA in 2019, Chris Archer has a career ERA at 3.86. Between 2013 and 2017, Archer posted a 3.60 ERA with a 1.21 WHIP and walked less than three batters per nine innings. His FIP was even lower than his ERA during that span, with a 3.46.
Despite his struggles last season, he still owns a career WHIP of 1.25 and a career FIP of 3.65. His career strikeouts per nine innings sit at 9.8.
Last season he still struck out 10.8 batters per nine. His homer rate reached an all-time high with 1.9, indicating there may be some bad luck involved in his 2019 numbers.
Last season he walked 4.14 batter per nine, which was a career-high for the 31-year-old right-hander.
Archer only appeared in 109 innings for the Pirates in 2019 after landing on the injured list with shoulder discomfort in August. So, yes, he had his worst season as a major leaguer, but it was marred by injuries.
He continued to strike guys out but gave up too many walks and homers. His stuff is still there and he has a track record as a much better pitcher than what we saw last year.
His 2019 season may be a buying opportunity for the Braves and Alex Anthopoulos. If the front office sees hope in Archer, his value really couldn’t be any lower.
The Pirates would be happy to get something for the starter, whom they gave up Austin Meadows, Tyler Glasnow, and Shane Baz to get.
Additionally, he only has one year left on his contract. It’s a make or break season for the strikeout artist. The time to buy is now if the Braves have an interest. He brings low risk with the upside of an ace.
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