Kyle Crockett

Crockett bounced around between Cleveland and Triple-A Columbus for most of the summer, logging 31 appearances (1.36 WHIP, 3.6 BB/9, 7.6 K/9 in 17.2 innings) for the Tribe. He didn't really do much at Triple-A Columbus (1.85 WHIP, 3.5 BB/9, 8.5 K/9) to warrant a promotion but the Indians had a need for a southpaw at various times and Crockett was a familiar name that fit the bill. It's a good gig if you can get it, kids. Crockett performed far better for the Tribe in 2014 (1.13 WHIP, 2.4 BB/9, 8.4 K/9 in 43 games) in a LOOGY role and he has to hope that carries some weight as the Indians construct their bullpen for 2016. He will compete for a lefty specialist role during spring training, a bid that could be easier with the departure of Nick Hagadone during the offseason.

At the very least, Crockett is a great bar trivia answer to the following question: Who was the first player selected in the 2013 first-year player draft to debut in the big leagues? His first stint with Cleveland lasted less than a week, but he returned in mid-June and did enough to stick for the rest of the season. Crockett is a wiry left-hander, listed at 6-foot-2 and 170 pounds, and he cruised through the minor leagues in large part because he possesses better control than the typical lefty in his early 20s. Crockett doesn't overpower hitters, but he generates enough whiffs to carry a good strikeout rate (8.4 K/9, 23.0% K%) while getting an overwhelming number of his contact outs on the ground (55.6% GB%). In deeper leagues where holds are rewarded, Crockett may offer some sneaky value, but keep in mind that his rookie numbers are supported by a 90.6% LOB%, and his xFIP (3.23) was significantly higher than his 1.80 ERA.