Pablo Lopez

Despite his 5.09 ERA and mediocre strikeout rate in 2019, there was some buzz about Lopez heading into last season because of his outstanding changeup and his ability to keep his WHIP in check. He justified the expectations, cutting his ERA to 3.61 and striking out about a batter and a half more per nine innings than he had previously. He's still volatile, as he has seemingly random games where he lacks command with his changeup and gets hit hard. And he needs another pitch to complement his fastball and changeup. But if he can continue to develop either his curveball or cutter, he could be a true breakout candidate. Draft him as an SP4 with upside for more if his other pitches continue to improve.

Pablo Lopez allows two runs in Game 2 loss

Marlins starter Pablo Lopez allowed two earned runs on three hits and no walks while striking out seven over five innings in Wednesday's NLDS Game 2 loss to the Atlanta Braves.

Fantasy Impact

Lopez didn't pitch particularly poorly in this one, but Ian Anderson and the Atlanta bullpen blanked the Marlins on Wednesday. In 11 starts this season, the young right-hander pitched to a 6-4 record with a 3.61 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, and 59 strikeouts over 57 1/3 innings. His next start will come against either the Dodgers or the Padres if the Marlins are able to battle back from their 0-2 deficit in the NLDS.