Let’s get this straight from the outset – Dan Hudson won’t appear this high on many prospect lists. However, as I displayed last year when I drove the Gordon Beckham hype train, despite massive nega-hype, I am not afraid to go against the mainstream when there’s ample support.
Hudson pitched in every level but tee-ball last year. Across four minor league stops, Hudson posted sick stats in 26 starts and 147.1 IP: 2.32 ERA, 166 Ks, 34 BBs, and a .200 BAA. Oh yeah, those are Minor League Player of the Year worthy numbers, my fantasy friends.
The 6-4, 220-pound righty’s minor league success earned him a September cup of java with the big club. The results were mixed. In 18.2 IP, Hudson had a 3.38 ERA and .252 BAA. But, his K/9 rate dipped to 6.75 (from 9.00 at Triple-A) and he had some uncharacteristic control issues (4.34 BB/9).
Hudson is a hurler to target in your keeper leagues. The 2008 draftee has exhibited swing-and-miss ability and outstanding control over the past two years. Specifically, he had a K/9 of 9.00 or above at every minor league level and a BB/9 of 3.00 or below at every level (except Triple-A where his BB/9 was 3.38). Not only does he miss bats, but Hudson keeps the ball in the park with his “down in the zone” approach. As an illustration, Hudson only gave up five bombs in 147.1 minor league innings pitched this year. There’s a lot to like about Mr. Hudson.
So, why won’t he post up in the Top 25 on many prospect lists. Well, he lacks that dominant pitch to “wow” the scouts. Hudson possesses a low 90s four-seam fastball, promising slider, dancing change, and “show me” curve. The development of his slider and change will determine whether Hudson becomes a No. 2 fantasy starter in AL-only leagues, or a No. 1 ace.
Why do I smell a future ace? Well, if you watch D-Huddy hurl, you see a kid who knows how to pitch. Hudson has great movement on his pitches, knows how to paint the corners, and has the confidence to throw his top three pitches to any batter, in any count. Hudson is advanced well beyond the digits on his birth certificate. Sure, Hudson doesn’t light up the radar gun. But, let me ask you this – when have radar gun readings won you a fantasy title?
Hudson will undoubtedly begin next year in Triple-A since the White Sox recently scooped up Freddy Garcia’s option. Garcia will start the year as Ozzie Guillen’s fifth starter. C’mon though, do you really think Garcia will stay healthy? Even if he does stay healthy, what are the odds he’s effective?
Hudson will snag a spot in Chicago’s rotation by July. As with most young pitchers, he will have some growing pains. However, because of his maturity and advanced approach, this young gun’s learning curve will be much shorter. Go snag this dude in all formats; the dividends will come quicker than with most young guns.
