Brandon Woodruff

There were some skeptics after Woodruff succeeded in 2019 based largely on one pitch - his devastating fastball - but he put those concerns to rest in 2020. His ERA (3.05) and WHIP (0.99) were incredibly strong, particularly when you consider that he struck out more than 11 batters per nine innings. Woodruff's fastball hits rests at 96 MPH and is one of the better pitches in baseball, but his slider and changeup both made strides last year. The Brewers are reportedly planning to add about 100 innings to their starter's workloads last season, so pencil Woodruff in for roughly 175 extremely strong frames. You can survive with him as your fantasy ace, though he's best as an incredibly strong number 2.

Brandon Woodruff (back) will throw a live BP on Tuesday

Brewers ace Brandon Woodruff (back) is scheduled to throw a live batting practice on Tuesday.

Fantasy Impact

Woodruff was scratched from today's start due to some back stiffness. The Brewers insist they're simply being cautious with their ace right-hander. He could make his Cactus League debut as early as this weekend if today's live BP goes well.