Carlos Martinez

Martinez's shoulder weakness pushed him to the bullpen, where he eventually successfully took over for Jordan Hicks as the closer for the Cardinals. His 2020 role remains in flux, as it appears he'll be given an opportunity to win back the starting role he so covets, but his success is far from assured. Martinez should provide value in the rotation or the bullpen, so given that you won't need to spend much draft capital to get him anyway, don't shy away.

Carlos Martinez throws bullpen session Tuesday

Carlos Martinez was cleared to participate in workouts and threw a bullpen session on Tuesday.

Fantasy Impact

Martinez looked “strong” and he’s in consideration for the fifth spot in the rotation. “I think he more than earned the opportunity with what he showed in Spring Training,” said Cardinals’ manager Mike Shildt. “Now it’s just a little bit of the caliber and what that looks like and how we can move him forward appropriately.” Martinez is exited to play a key role in the Cardinals rotation, whether as a starter or out of the bullpen. The 28-year-old converted 24-of-27 save opportunities last season, while recording a 3.17 ERA, 1.18 WHIP and a 53:18 K:BB across 48 1/3 innings.