As I write this article Joe Saunders has completed 8 innings and has allowed 0 runs while giving up only 4 hits and 1 walk while striking out 5 against the Oakland A's. That has brought his ERA down to 2.13 and his WHIP down to 0.94 and his K total up to 20. If he ends up winning the game he will be 5-0 on the season. These are remarkable numbers for a guy who went largely undrafted this preseason. Saunders has been the glue that has held the pitching staff together in the absence of both John Lackey and Kelvim Escobar. Saunders has been clutch in the last two seasons for the Angels. He showed he can be a big game pitcher in clutch situations late in the season the last two years. He doesn't overpower anybody but he knows how to get outs and he has been extremely proficient at it early this season. Owners of Saunders are thanking their lucky stars for picking him up and for people like myself who did, it has been the best pickup of the season so far.
I always though Saunders would be a better pitcher than most others thought. I never knew he could put together a five game stretch like he has to start this season but I saw good talent in him. The way the Angels play just breeds winners. I don't think Saunders can keep up this pace sadly enough. However, don't be surprised if at the end of the season you see Saunders sitting there with 15 wins. He should be starting for you every time he goes out there until you see a bad outing. I may have missed out on my share of hot starting free agent pickups but I'm glad I got my hands on this guy.
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