Drew Smyly
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2013Antiques171740590111.2118632593175.08
2014Antiques5400059069.14616157452.08
2015Antiques2525711340180.11616751153143.34
2016Antiques12123243082.25524199582.61
2017Antiques441002022.1332172378.46
2018Antiques00000000.0000000.00
2019Antiques00000000.0000000.00
2020Crushers11000103.04442112.00
2020Mudhens00000000.0000000.00
2021Manatees141460760102.089543610794.76
2022Manatees2222106100125.2112554589183.94
2023Manatees2222521150163.11335639135143.09
2024Manatees18120065079.079373285134.22
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Nov 2 2024The Cubs declined Smyly's $10 million mutual option for 2025 on Saturday, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly moved to the bullpen full-time in 2024 and logged a 3.84 ERA and 1.40 WHIP over 58.2 innings. While those are both improvements from his 2023 statline (5.00 ERA, 1.43 WHIP), the Cubs will elect to pay the southpaw's $2.5 million buyout rather than keep him on the squad for his age-36 season.
Sep 15 2024Smyly (3-8) allowed an unearned run on a hit and a walk while retiring just one batter to take the loss in Saturday's 6-5, extra-inning defeat to the Rockies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After Porter Hodge blew the save in the bottom of the ninth inning to force the game into the 10th, Smyly allowed the automatic baserunner to come around and score to take the loss. The lefty's record doesn't reflect it, but he's pitched well this year out of the bullpen with a 3.54 ERA and 53 strikeouts across 56 innings. Smyly was placed on waivers back in late August, though he's stuck around in Chicago and will likely continue to see high-leverage work for the Cubs in the final few weeks of the regular season.
Aug 26 2024The Cubs placed Smyly on outright waivers Monday, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly will now be available to be claimed off waivers by the 29 other teams in the league after producing a 2.84 ERA and 1.18 WHIP with 43 strikeouts over 50.2 innings in 39 appearances out of the bullpen with Chicago. The left-hander will likely have no shortage of teams interested in him and a postseason contender could use his services to bolster their bullpen down the stretch.
Aug 13 2024Smyly (3-6) allowed a solo home run across 1.1 innings of relief to take the loss Tuesday against the Guardians. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: A blast by Jhonkensy Noel in the fifth inning was the only damage against Smyly, but it saddled him with the loss in Cleveland's 2-1 victory. Despite the 3-6 record, Smyly has been solid this season with a 2.83 ERA and 1.15 WHIP across 47.2 innings. All of that work has come out of the bullpen, which is a contrast from last year, when the veteran lefty made 23 starts for the Cubs.
Jul 22 2024Smyly (3-5) tossed 1.2 scoreless innings of relief to earn the win Monday against the Brewers. He allowed one hit and didn't record any walks or strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Chicago starter Javier Assad didn't allow any runs over his 3.1 innings of work, but he also issued six walks and threw 76 pitches, which forced Smyly into the game early. The veteran lefty continued his strong recent play and lowered his season ERA to 2.79. The Cubs have stuck with Assad and Kyle Hendricks at the back of their rotation, though both pitchers have had their struggles this season and could be bumped for Smyly if the team decides to make a change at some point.
Jul 21 2024Smyly tossed two scoreless innings of relief in Saturday's 3-0 loss to the Diamondbacks. He allowed a hit and struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly continues to pitch well for the Cubs in a long-relief role, as he's allowed just one run this month in six appearances. Overall, the veteran lefty has lowered his ERA to 2.92, which would be the second-lowest mark of his 11-year MLB career. Chicago seems content to keep Smyly in the bullpen, though fifth starter Kyle Hendricks has a 6.69 ERA and could get bumped from the rotation if the team decides to mix things up at some point.
Jul 14 2024Smyly tossed 1.1 scoreless innings of relief to earn a hold in Sunday's 8-3 win over the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly picked things up after Chicago starter Jameson Taillon covered 5.2 innings, and the former was effective across his 16 pitches, earning his third hold of the season in the process. Smyly had a solid first half of the season, posting a 3.09 ERA across 35 innings of relief. While the veteran lefty has plenty of starting experience in his career, he's worked exclusively out of the bullpen so far in 2024, and he'll likely stick in that role after the All-Star break.
Jul 7 2024Smyly allowed a walk and a solo home run over two innings of relief in Saturday's 7-0 loss to the Angels. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Starter Kyle Hendricks left the game after two innings due to back tightness, which forced the Cubs to use five relievers, including Smyly. The veteran lefty has been solid this year with a 3.48 ERA and 31 strikeouts across 31 innings of relief work. While he's been used exclusively out of the bullpen so far in 2024, Smyly did make 23 starts for the team last season, and he could be an option for the rotation in the short term if Hendricks has to miss any time.
Jun 30 2024Smyly tossed two scoreless innings of relief in Sunday's 7-1 loss to the Brewers. He allowed a hit and a walk while striking out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Chicago starter Kyle Hendricks struggled, allowing seven runs over 3.2 innings, which forced the Cubs to get some long-relief work from Smyly. The veteran had allowed runs in his last two appearances, but he was better Sunday as he lowered his season ERA to 3.54. Hendricks now has a 7.48 ERA, and the Cubs may be forced to remove him from the rotation at some point if he can't turn things around. Smyly, who started 23 games for the team last season, could be an option to slide into that role, though he was ineffective as a starter in 2023 and would be hard to trust from a fantasy perspective.
Jun 17 2024Smyly tossed two scoreless innings of relief in Sunday's 2-1 loss to the Cardinals. He allowed two hits and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After a solid effort from starter Jameson Taillon across six innings, Smyly did his best to keep the Cubs in the game despite their lack of offense. The lefty has now logged five straight scoreless outings covering seven innings, and he's struck out seven during the hot steak. Smyly seems more suited for a relief role than a starting gig at this point in his career, as his fastball is up to 93.1 mph this season after sitting at 92 mph last year, when he made 23 starts, and he's been more effective with the added velocity.
Jun 1 2024Smyly (2-3) allowed two runs on a hit and three walks across 1.1 innings of relief Friday against the Reds. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Smyly was effective at missing bats, he was equally ineffective finding the plate. The three walks are a new season high and his BB/9 for the year is now up to 5.1, which would be a new career worst. Smyly will need to exhibit better control if he wants to chip away at his 5.06 ERA, and he's off the fantasy radar at the moment given his role and recent performance.
May 25 2024The Cubs reinstated Smyly (hip) from the injured list Saturday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly landed on the injured list in late April due to a right hip impingement, and he struck out five batters in three scoreless innings during his lone rehab game at High-A South Bend on Tuesday. He had put up a 4.97 ERA and 1.34 WHIP across 12.2 innings before getting injured and figures to reprise his role as a middle reliever now that he's fully recovered. Jose Cuas was optioned to Triple-A Iowa in a corresponding move.
May 24 2024Cubs manager Craig Counsell said Friday that Smyly (hip) is likely to be activated during the weekend series against the Cardinals, Elise Menaker reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly made one rehab start with High-A South Bend on Tuesday, throwing three perfect innings while striking out five. Despite the fact that Kyle Hendricks was moved to the bullpen and Jordan Wicks (forearm) remains on the IL, Counsell noted that he will use Smyly in a multi-inning relief role in his return, rather than in the rotation. Smyly appeared in nine games before going on the injured list, registering a 4.97 ERA and 1.34 WHIP over 12.2 innings.
May 22 2024Smyly (hip) struck out five over three perfect innings in his rehab start Tuesday with High-A South Bend. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Pitching in a game for the first time in a month after landing on the 15-day injured list April 23 with a right hip impingement, Smyly looked about as good as possible while tossing 40 pitches. The lefty had been working exclusively as a reliever prior to landing on the shelf, but with the Cubs moving the struggling Kyle Hendricks to the bullpen earlier this week, Smyly could be under consideration to step in as the team's No. 5 starter if he makes it back from the IL before Jordan Wicks (forearm). If the Cubs intend to bring Smyly back in a starting role, he'll still need to get stretched out a bit further, so it wouldn't be surprising if he stuck around at South Bend or joined a higher-level affiliate for another rehab outing. Regardless of whether Smyly serves as a starter or reliever upon his return to the Cubs, manager Craig Counsell said Wednesday that he expects the 34-year-old to be activated at some point next week, per MLB.com.
May 21 2024Smyly (hip) will make a rehab start Tuesday with High-A South Bend, Tim Stebbins of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly is set for his first rehab appearance since suffering a pinched nerve in his right hip back in April. It's unclear how long of a rehab stint is required, but Smyly should be on pace to return in late May or early June.
May 18 2024Manager Craig Counsell said Saturday that he expects Smyly (hip) to begin a rehab assignment with High-A South Bend sometime next week, Mike McGraw of the Chicago Daily Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Counsell did not specify how many appearances Smyly will make in the minors, though the lefty figures to require multiple outings given he's been on the shelf since April 23 with a hip impingement. The 34-year-old put up a 4.97 ERA and 1.34 WHIP across 12.2 innings before getting hurt, and he will likely return to a multi-inning relief role once he rejoins Chicago.
May 13 2024Smyly (hip) threw another bullpen session Monday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly continues to work his way back from a right hip impingement, which prompted his placement on the 15-day injured list April 23. The 34-year-old southpaw will need to advance to facing live hitters in batting practice and will likely require a rehab assignment before being activated.
May 7 2024Smyly (hip) will throw a bullpen session Tuesday, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He's continuing his throwing progression as he works his way back from a right hip impingement. Smyly has already missed a couple weeks of action and will probably be asked to make at least one rehab appearance before being activated.
May 3 2024Smyly (hip) has been cleared to begin playing catch, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly hasn't pitched in nearly two weeks because of a right hip impingement but is ready to begin ramping things back up. The left-hander seems likely to require a rehab assignment before rejoining the Cubs' bullpen.
Apr 23 2024The Cubs placed Smyly on the 15-day injured list Tuesday, retroactive to April 22, with a right hip impingement, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly last pitched on Sunday against the Marlins and must have suffered an injury during the outing. He'll be eligible to return May 7, although it's not clear at this point whether he will be ready at that time.
Apr 12 2024Through four appearances (6.2 innings), Smyly has a 4.05 ERA, 0.90 WHIP and seven strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Outside of his first appearance of the season, Smyly has retired more than three batters in all of his outings, and he should continue to work in a long-relief role for the Cubs. While a 4.05 ERA isn't amazing, it is an improvement from the 5.00 figure he posted in 2023. The veteran southpaw has also lowered his WHIP from 1.43 last season, as he's done a better job of limiting baserunners to this point. It's still early, but Smyly's results have been encouraging so far.
Mar 21 2024Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirmed Thursday that Smyly will begin the season in the bullpen, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Though Jameson Taillon (back) is slated to begin the season on the injured list, the Cubs are electing to fill the final two spots in the five-man rotation with Jordan Wicks and Javier Assad rather than opening the campaign with Smyly in a starting role. Counsell noted that he still expects Smyly to make starts at some point this season, so the 35-year-old lefty presumably checks in at seventh on the organization's rotation depth chart, including the injured Taillon.
Mar 18 2024Smyly could start the regular season in the rotation with Jameson Taillon (back) set to miss some time into April, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Taillon could return as soon as April 8 in San Diego, but the Cubs will have to fill his rotation spot until then. Justin Steele is set to start Opening Day on March 28, and Chicago gets an off day after that. However, the Cubs then have games on five straight days, so a full rotation will likely be needed. Beyond Steele, Kyle Hendricks and Shota Imanaga should be locked into starting spots, and Jordan Wicks is making a strong case in camp. That could leave Smyly, Javier Assad and Hayden Wesneski to compete for the No. 5 spot, at least until Taillon returns.
Mar 11 2024Smyly tossed 3.1 scoreless innings in Sunday's Cactus League game against the Rangers. He allowed four hits and a walk, while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly still has a rough 6.14 ERA in Cactus League play due to some rough outings earlier this spring, but this was a step in the right direction. The veteran lefty is likely headed for a bullpen role at some point, though a short-term opportunity to start may open up with Jameson Taillon (back) in jeopardy of missing time to start the regular season. Righties Javier Assad and Hayden Wesneski are also options for spot starting duties.
Feb 29 2024Smyly allowed five runs on seven hits and a walk across two innings of work in Thursday's Cactus League game against the Rockies. He struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly allowed a pair of home runs in his two innings of work and was just hit around the park in general. The veteran lefty was much better in his first spring start Saturday, but he now has an inflated 11.25 ERA across four innings in Cactus League play. Smyly is competing for the fifth spot in Chicago's rotation, though he could ultimately end up in a similar swing role to the one he occupied last season.
Feb 4 2024Smyly is likely competing with Hayden Wesneski, Javier Assad and Jordan Wicks for the fifth spot in the Cubs' rotation to begin the season, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly made 41 appearances, including 23 starts, for Chicago last season and struggled with a 5.00 ERA and 1.43 WHIP. The veteran lefty can still miss some bats, as he recorded 141 strikeouts in 142.1 innings in 2023, and the team may want to deploy him in a relief role to see if his stuff plays up in favorable matchups. Smyly can still have some limited fantasy value in the right spots, though he's likely best used as a streamer if he's starting.
Nov 6 2023Smyly exercised his $8.5 million player option for the 2024 season Monday, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly will remain in Chicago for the 2024 campaign, as he was unlikely to surpass his guaranteed money elsewhere over the next year. He'll look to bounce back after a rocky 2023 season, accruing a 5.00 ERA and 1.43 WHIP with a 141:56 K:BB across 142.1 innings.
Oct 1 2023Smyly (11-11) allowed three runs on two hits while retiring only a single batter to take the loss Sunday against the Brewers. He walked three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly struggled badly in the season finale, throwing just 11 of his 28 pitches for strikes and retiring only the one batter. The veteran southpaw bounced between the bullpen and rotation this year, ultimately making 23 starts and 18 relief appearances. Smyly finishes 2023 with an even 5.00 ERA across 142.1 innings. He's under contract next season in Chicago, though he's not the most appealing fantasy option at this point in his career and is probably best used as a matchup play if he's starting games.
Sep 30 2023Smyly will start Sunday's game against the Brewers, Todd Rosiak of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly figures to work a few innings in what may turn out to be a bullpen game for Chicago after the club was eliminated from postseason contention Saturday night. The veteran southpaw has plenty of experience in a starting role, though he was converted to a reliever for the final month of the season and has worked only 15.2 innings over 11 appearances in September.
Aug 24 2023Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer said Thursday that Smyly will return to a bullpen role, Mike McGraw of the Chicago Daily Herald reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's unclear who might fill the vacant rotation spot, though Hoyer offered an intriguing "no comment" when asked if it could be top pitching prospect Jordan Wicks. Smyly was lit up for seven earned runs over 3.2 innings in his most recent start Tuesday at Detroit and holds a 5.28 ERA in 124.1 total innings (22 starts, five relief appearances) this year with Chicago.
Aug 23 2023Smyly (9-9) took the loss Tuesday, allowing seven runs on eight hits and three walks over 3.2 innings in a 8-6 loss to the Tigers. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw's return to Chicago's rotation was a disaster, as he allowed 11 baserunners and served up two long homers to Andy Ibanez in less than four innings. Smyly pitched well in his three recent relief appearances, but this marks his second consecutive start allowing seven earned runs. Smyly now has an 8.60 ERA and 1.62 WHIP across 30.1 second-half innings and it remains to be seen whether he will receive another start.
Aug 20 2023Smyly is scheduled to start Tuesday against the Tigers, Evan Woodbery of MLive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran left-hander was shifted to the bullpen earlier in August and covered one frame in each of his past three outings, but he'll return to the rotation Tuesday with Marcus Stroman (ribs/hip) still on the injured list. Smyly hasn't covered multiple innings since his last start Aug. 7, so he could have some workload limitations in Detroit. Even without those limitations, Smyly's 4.92 ERA in 21 starts this year makes him an undesirable fantasy option.
Aug 9 2023Cubs manager David Ross announced Wednesday that Smyly has been temporarily moved to the bullpen, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Chicago has three days off in the next week and can roll with a smaller rotation for a bit. Also clouding Smyly's role is that Marcus Stroman (hip) is due back within the next few weeks. The 34-year-old left-hander was lit up for seven earned runs over five innings in his last turn Monday versus the Mets as his season ERA rose to 5.05.
Aug 7 2023Smyly (8-8) took the loss against the Mets on Monday, allowing seven runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out five batters over five-plus innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was another uninspiring performance by Smyly, who was victimized by two Pete Alonso homers within the first three innings that accounted for five of the runs against him. Despite the long balls, the left-handed hurler managed to get through five frames without completely falling apart, but he allowed three straight singles to open the sixth and then departed after walking in a run. Smyly has given up 12 runs over 9.2 innings across his past two starts and has surrendered at least four earned runs in six of eight outings dating back to June 28. That poor stretch has lifted his ERA from a respectable 3.37 to 5.05.
Aug 3 2023Smyly tossed 4.2 innings against Cincinnati on Wednesday, allowing five runs on six hits and no walks while striking out seven batters in a no-decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly had pitched behind an opener in each of his two previous outings, but he returned to a traditional starting role Wednesday. The change didn't appear to benefit the left-hander, as he fell behind 5-2 after four frames and was pulled with two outs in the fifth. The Cubs eventually came back with a massive offensive outburst in the late innings to take Smyly off the hook, but that doesn't do much to soften the veteran's struggles. After pitching well for a period earlier in the campaign, Smyly has mostly fallen off the fantasy radar, posting an 8.40 ERA, 1.70 WHIP and 35:11 K:BB over 30 innings across his past seven starts.
Jul 31 2023Smyly is scheduled to start Wednesday's game against the Reds at Wrigley Field, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was never removed from the rotation, but the Cubs elected to deploy him behind an opener in both of this last two turns after he had posted a 9.35 ERA and 2.02 WHIP in his preceding four starts. Though Smyly showed improved results in his most recent two outings working out of the bullpen (5.63 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 11:2 K:BB in eight innings), the Cubs will give the lefty another chance to prove himself in a traditional starting role. Multiple reports have suggested that the surging Cubs won't be dealing staff ace Marcus Stroman prior to Tuesday's trade deadline while they pursue a division title or wild-card spot, but it's unclear if the team will seek out potential upgrades to Smyly ahead of the deadline.
Jul 28 2023Smyly (8-7) yielded one run on two hits and a walk over 4.1 innings Friday, striking out six and earning a win against the Cardinals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly worked out of the bullpen again Friday, beginning in the third inning after Hayden Wesneski covered the first two frames. It was a solid rebound after Smyly had allowed 22 earned runs over his previous 21 innings. He lowered his season ERA to 4.50 with a 97:37 K:BB through 108 frames. Smyly is expected to remain in a bulk relief role for right now and is currently in line to work against the Reds at home next week.
Jul 26 2023Smyly is not certain to start Friday against the Cardinals, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 34-year-old lefty was used in bulk relief, with Michael Fulmer operating as the Cubs' opener, on what would have been Smyly's last turn through the rotation July 22 versus St. Louis. It sounds like manager David Ross is considering doing something similar for Friday's game at Busch Stadium. Smyly has posted a brutal 9.86 ERA over his last 21 innings (four starts, one relief appearance) dating back to June 28.
Jul 22 2023Smyly will be available out of the bullpen for Saturday's game against the Cardinals, with Michael Fulmer set to open, Tim Stebbins of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cubs haven't officially indicated that Smyly will handle the bulk innings, but considering that he's on turn to start and that Fulmer isn't likely to thrown more than an inning or two after appearing in relief Friday, it seems likely. Smyly has had his moments this season, taking a perfect game into the eighth inning against the Dodgers back in April, but he's stumbled to a 9.87 ERA over his last four starts, so it's no surprise he's lost his manager's confidence.
Jul 18 2023Smyly (7-7) took the loss against Washington on Monday, allowing five runs on eight hits and one walk while striking out seven batters over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It didn't take long for Smyly to fall behind in the contest, as he gave up a two-run home run to Jeimer Candelario in the first inning. The southpaw ended up surrendering five runs in the contest, the fifth time in 19 starts he's yielded at least that many runs in a game. Smyly at least managed to make it through six frames after going no more than four innings in each of his previous three appearances, but he wasn't able to put an end to his recent struggles. Over his past four outings, he's gone 0-3 while compiling a 9.87 ERA, 2.08 WHIP and 17:9 K:BB in 17.1 innings.
Jul 9 2023Smyly (7-6) took the loss Saturday, allowing four runs on six hits and four walks over four innings against the Yankees. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was victimized by the long ball early, surrendering a solo homer to Giancarlo Stanton in the first inning and another solo shot to Josh Donaldson in the second. The right-hander allowed runs in each of his first three innings of work and failed to make it beyond the fourth inning for the third consecutive start. He's now lost five of his last seven starts and has given up at least two homers in three of his last five.
Jul 3 2023Smyly did not factor into the decision Monday, allowing three runs on four hits and three walks over 3.2 innings against Milwaukee. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly got through the first two innings unscathed, but the Brewers tagged him for three runs in the third before forcing the left-hander out of the game in the fourth. Smyly has struggled to a 6.49 ERA over his last seven outings after pitching to a 2.60 mark in his first 10 starts. Overall, the 34-year-old southpaw is 7-5 with a 4.10 ERA, 1.21 WHIP and 76:30 K:BB across 90 innings this season. Smyly will look to get back on track in his next outing, tentatively scheduled for next week against the Yankees.
Jun 28 2023Smyly (7-5) took the loss against Philadelphia on Wednesday, allowing seven runs on nine hits and one walk while striking out two batters over 3.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly had eight days to rest since his previous start, but the time off didn't seem to do well for him. The left-hander allowed a season-high seven earned runs and recorded his second-shortest start of the campaign while tying a season-low mark with just two punchouts. Smyly gave up multiple homers for just the second time this year, though both of those instances have come across his past three starts. He has been mostly boom-or-bust in terms of performance this season, allowing two or fewer earned runs in 11 starts but surrendering five-plus earned runs in four of his remaining five appearances.
Jun 19 2023Smyly (7-4) tossed five scoreless innings to earn the win Monday against the Pirates. He allowed three hits and five walks, while striking out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cubs scored three runs in the second inning and that was more than enough for Smyly in the eventual 8-0 victory. The lefty struggled with control, issuing a season high in walks, and needed 94 pitches to cover five innings, but he was otherwise strong as he lowered his season ERA to 3.38. Smyly is now tied for second on the team in wins, one behind Marcus Stroman. The veteran will look to build on this in his next outing, which will likely come early next week against the Phillies, as the Cubs have two off days this week that will push the whole rotation back.
Jun 15 2023Smyly (6-4) earned the victory in Wednesday's 10-6 win over Pittsburgh, allowing five runs on nine hits and a walk while striking out four over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Pirates jumped on Smyly for three runs on a pair of homers in the first inning, but the veteran left-hander settled down from there, holding Pittsburgh to two more runs over his final five frames as the Cubs came back for a 10-6 win. The win snapped a three-start losing streak for Smyly, who's pitched to a 6.04 ERA over his last four outings after he hadn't allowed more than two earned runs in his previous nine starts. He now sports a 3.59 ERA with a 1.20 WHIP and 65:21 K:BB through 14 starts (77.2 innings) this season.
Jun 9 2023Smyly (5-4) took the loss Thursday, allowing three runs (two earned) on seven hits and three walks over six innings against the Angels. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly suffered from a lack of run support as he delivered his fifth quality start of the season. The southpaw has been fairly consistent in 2023, not allowing more than two earned runs in 10 of his 13 outings. The veteran is tentatively slated to face the Pirates at home in his next start.
Jun 3 2023Smyly (5-3) took the loss Saturday versus the Padres, allowing three runs on seven hits and three walks with four strikeouts over 5.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was no match for opposing pitcher Yu Darvish, who allowed just three baserunners over seven innings. It was a rather pedestrian effort from Smyly, who came up an out short of a quality start. He's given up 10 runs over his last 15.1 innings with an 11:7 K:BB in that span. The veteran southpaw has a 3.56 ERA with a 1.11 WHIP and 57 strikeouts over 65.2 innings through 12 starts this season. He'll look to get back on track with a road start versus the Angels next week.
May 29 2023Smyly (5-2) took the loss against the Reds on Sunday after allowing five runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out two over 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Ironically, Smyly's two losses have both come against the Reds after they also got to him in his opening start back on April 3. Sunday was a similar outing for Smyly, who managed to go less than five innings for just the third time in 11 starts. Cincinnati tacked on two runs in the second, another in the third and two more in the fifth to chase him out of the game. The 34-year-old has given up 12 runs in his two outings against the division foes and 12 runs in his nine other starts total. He now sits at a 3.45 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and 53:14 K:BB over 60 innings and will look to bounce back in a road test against the Padres next weekend.
May 24 2023Smyly (5-1) got the win over the Mets on Tuesday after allowing two runs on four hits and two walks while striking out five over five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly kept the Mets' bats quiet until the fourth after Pete Alonso took him deep to center. He coasted through the fifth and wound up being pulled with the bases juiced in the sixth after allowing the first three hitters to reach. Jeremiah Estrada replaced him and allowed just one of the inherited runners to score. The 34-year-old gave up six runs in his first outing of the season and has since posted a 2.13 ERA, 0.83 WHIP and 48:10 K:BB over 50.2 innings. He lines up for a home start against the Reds over the weekend.
May 17 2023Smyly allowed a run on four hits and struck out eight without walking a batter over six innings in a no-decision versus the Astros on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly did his part, but the Cubs' bullpen allowed six runs over 2.1 innings to squander his quality start. The southpaw hasn't allowed more than two runs in any of his last eight outings after he was tagged for seven runs (six earned) in his season debut. He's now at a 2.86 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 46:10 K:BB through 50.1 innings this season. Smyly is projected for a home start versus the Mets next week.
May 12 2023Smyly (4-1) allowed two runs on four hits across six innings to earn the win Friday against the Twins. He walked one and struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly allowed two runs in the second inning before settling in to toss four straight scoreless frames and earn the victory. The lefty has been solid this year as he now has a 3.05 ERA to go with a sparkling 0.97 WHIP. Smyly doesn't always go that deep into games, as this was only his third time tossing six innings or more across eight starts, but he's otherwise been effective. The veteran is tentatively set to take the mound again Wednesday against the Astros.
May 6 2023Smyly didn't factor into the decision in Saturday's 4-2 win over the Marlins, giving up two runs on three hits and three walks over 3.1 innings. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran lefty didn't have sharp command and needed 83 pitches (50 strikes) to record 10 outs in his shortest start of the year so far, but the Cubs got him off the hook for a loss with a three-run eighth inning. Smyly still has a 3.05 ERA and 34:9 K:BB through 38.1 innings, and he'll look to rebound in his next outing, likely to come next weekend in Minnesota.
May 2 2023Smyly (3-1) earned the win over Washington on Monday, allowing one run on six hits and no walks while striking out two batters over seven innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly made one significant mistake in the outing, serving up a 424-foot solo shot to Lane Thomas in the second inning. Aside from that, the lefty hurler faced little resistance, as he allowed multiple batters to reach base in only one frame. Smyly nabbed his second quality start in his past three appearances, and he's now given up one or zero runs in four of his six starts this season. The veteran was lit up for six earned runs over 4.2 frames in his 2023 debut against Cincinnati, but since then he's been outstanding, posting a 1.48 ERA and 0.69 WHIP over 30.1 innings.
Apr 3 2023Smyly (0-1) took the loss Monday, allowing seven runs (six earned) on nine hits and two walks over 4.2 innings in a 7-6 loss to the Reds. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty allowed five consecutive batters to reach to begin his day -- Jonathan India's leadoff walk was followed by four straight singles. The Reds scored again in the second inning, but Smyly was at least able to keep Cincinnati off the board in the third and fourth before unraveling again in the fifth. He managed 12 swinging strikes on 93 pitches and will look for better results his next time out, tentatively scheduled for Sunday at home against the Rangers.
Mar 11 2023Smyly tossed four scoreless innings in Friday's Cactus League game against the White Sox. He allowed four hits and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly entered the contest with an 11.25 ERA across his first four innings this spring, so this was a welcome rebound. The lefty had allowed three home runs over his first two Cactus League starts, but he managed to avoid any long balls Friday. Smyly had a strong 3.47 ERA across 106.1 innings for the Cubs in 2022, and he should be able to post similar results this year if he can limit the damage from homers.
Mar 6 2023Smyly has an 11.25 ERA across four innings in two Cactus League starts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has been hurt by the long ball so far, as he's allowed three home runs in his two short starts. The lefty posted a 1.4 HR/9 last year and has a 1.5 mark for his career, so home runs have always been a bit of an issue. Smyly still managed a strong 3.47 ERA across 106.1 innings for the Cubs in 2022, and he should slot in near the back of the team's rotation this year. The veteran could have some fantasy value in the right matchups, though his propensity to allow homers along with his injury history remain red flags.
Dec 22 2022Smyly signed a two-year, $19 million contract with the Cubs on Thursday, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly will return to Chicago for at least two more seasons after he declined a mutual option worth $10 million with the club earlier in the offseason. In 2022 -- his first season with the Cubs -- Smyly maintained a solid 3.47 ERA and 1.19 WHIP, though he was limited to 106.1 innings due to an oblique strain. According to Murray, Smyly's new deal also includes a mutual option worth $10 million for the 2025 campaign and it includes a $2.5 million buyout.
Nov 8 2022Smyly declined his portion of the $10 million mutual option with the Cubs for 2023 on Tuesday, making him a free agent, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly signed with Chicago in March and started 22 games last season, and he pitched well with a 3.47 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 91:26 K:BB across 106.1 innings. The Cubs are interested in re-signing the 33-year-old lefty, though he figures to garner a fair amount of interest in free agency following a solid showing in 2022.
Oct 2 2022Smyly did not factor into the decision Saturday, allowing one run on four hits over three innings against Cincinnati. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The only damage against Smyly came on a two-out Kyle Farmer single in the top of the third to score Spencer Steer. However, the left-hander needed 62 pitches to get through three innings and was relieved by Adbert Alzolay to begin the fourth. Smyly has now allowed one run or fewer in each of his last three starts, registering 15 strikeouts to only three walks over that stretch.
Sep 30 2022Smyly (shoulder) is scheduled to start Saturday against the Reds, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly threw his second bullpen session of the week Thursday and will start Saturday after being unavailable the past couple weeks with shoulder fatigue. It will be the final start of 2022 for the veteran lefty, who has a 3.48 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 89:26 K:BB across 103.1 innings this season.
Sep 28 2022Manager David Ross said Wednesday that he expects Smyly (shoulder) to make another start prior to the end of the regular season, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was scratched from last Wednesday's start due to shoulder fatigue but threw a bullpen session Tuesday. While Ross didn't indicate which day Smyly will return to game action, the southpaw should have another chance to take the mound for the Cubs over the final week of the regular season.
Sep 25 2022Smyly (shoulder) will not start a game in next week's series against the Phillies, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He was scratched from this week's start due to shoulder fatigue and threw a bullpen session Sunday. It's unclear when Smyly will be able to return to game action, but we can rule out a start in the first series of next week.
Sep 24 2022Smyly (shoulder) played catch Saturday, Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was scratched from his start Wednesday against the Marlins due to shoulder fatigue but isn't expected to miss any more outings. Assuming his shoulder responds well, he should start Tuesday or Wednesday against the Phillies.
Sep 21 2022Smyly (shoulder) will likely make his next start Tuesday or Wednesday against the Phillies, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was scratched from Wednesday's start against Miami due to left shoulder fatigue and won't take the mound during the Cubs' weekend series in Pittsburgh. However, the southpaw isn't believed to be dealing with a significant injury and should be able to return to action after missing just one turn through the rotation.
Sep 20 2022Smyly is experiencing shoulder fatigue and will not start Wednesday against the Marlins, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to the report, Smyly is not believed to be dealing with "anything serious," but he will get more time before his next start, and the Cubs will likely be sure he is back at 100 percent before adding him back to the rotation. Marcus Stroman will move up a day and start Wednesday in Smyly's place.
Sep 15 2022Smyly (7-8) earned the win Wednesday, allowing two runs (one earned) on four hits and one walk over five innings against the Mets. He struck out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly allowed his lone earned run in the form of a solo shot from catcher Tomas Nido with one out in the third inning. Excluding a terrible outing in St. Louis when he gave up seven runs in 2.1 innings, the lefty has been phenomenal since the start of August with just four earned runs allowed in 35 innings across seven starts. The 33-year-old has been far better at home with a 2.38 ERA and 1.06 WHIP in 41.2 innings compared to a 4.23 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in 61.2 innings away from Wrigley.
Sep 9 2022Smyly (6-8) allowed one unearned run on one hit and two walks over seven innings Friday, striking out eight and earning a win over San Francisco. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly fired seven shutout frames before he was charged with an unearned run in the eighth. He's given up two or fewer runs in eight of his last 10 starts; the veteran lefty has gone just 4-3 despite registering a 2.85 ERA during that span. On the year, Smyly is sporting a 3.57 ERA with an 84:25 K:BB through 98.1 innings. He's expected to face the Rockies at home next week.
Sep 3 2022Smyly (5-8) took the loss during Saturday's 8-4 defeat at the hands of the Cardinals, allowing seven runs on five hits and three walks with three strikeouts in 2.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was provided a three-run lead before he took the mound but surrendered a Paul Goldschmidt two-run home run in the bottom of the first and five more runs in the third before being pulled. The poor start follows a sensational August that featured a 0.90 ERA across 30 innings -- Saturday's outing increased the 33-year-old's ERA more than half a run from 3.24 to 3.84. Smyly lines up to take the mound again next weekend at home against San Francisco.
Aug 28 2022Smyly did not factor into the decision against the Brewers on Saturday, allowing no runs on five hits while striking out two and walking one over six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly pitched a gem against the Brewers, throwing 62 of 86 pitches for strikes across six frames. Despite six Milwaukee batters reaching base, Smyly was able to keep all of them from reaching home. He was left with the no-decision after his bullpen allowed seven runs in the final two innings. The lefty has been incredible this month, picking up three quality starts to go along with a 0.90 ERA. Smyly began the month with a 3.97 ERA but has since lowered it to 3.24.
Aug 22 2022Smyly (5-7) allowed just one run on four hits across seven innings but took the loss Monday against the Cardinals. He walked two and struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: An Albert Pujols home run in the seventh inning was the only offense against Smyly, but it was enough to lead St. Louis to a 1-0 victory, as Jordan Montgomery outdueled Smyly with nine shutout innings. Despite the loss, Smyly still looked really good for the fourth game in a row. In those outings, the lefty has allowed just three earned runs across 24 innings, and he's struck out 23 against just five walks. The veteran has lowered his ERA to 3.47 in the process, and the good run has put Smyly back on the fantasy radar. He'll look to keep it rolling in his next scheduled start Saturday against the Brewers.
Aug 17 2022Smyly allowed two runs on four hits across 5.1 innings and did not factor into the decision Wednesday against the Nationals. He had no walks and struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly pitched well, though he needed 100 pitches to retire 16 batters, so got the hook after allowing a one-out double in the sixth inning. The lefty has now allowed two runs or fewer in his last three outings, which has helped him lower his ERA to a solid 3.67. Smyly isn't the most exciting fantasy option and doesn't always go deep into games, but he's been useful lately. He's scheduled to start again as part of a doubleheader Tuesday against the Cardinals.
Aug 12 2022Smyly (5-6) earned the win over Cincinnati in the Field of Dreams game on Thursday, allowing four hits and two walks while striking out nine batters over five scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly's nine punchouts came out of nowhere -- he hadn't fanned more than five batters in any of his 14 appearances coming into Thursday. The veteran racked up 18 swinging strikes and didn't allow any extra-base hits in the dominant outing. This was Smyly's second consecutive scoreless appearance, and he's allowed one run or fewer in four of his past five starts. Over that stretch, the southpaw has posted a 2.42 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 26:6 K:BB over 26 innings while picking up three victories.
Aug 6 2022Smyly (4-6) earned the win Saturday, allowing five hits and one walk over 6.2 scoreless innings against the Marlins. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was his best start of the season to date. While Smyly has fallen short of the five innings needed to qualify for the win several times this year, he's had a couple quality starts recently around a hiccup in San Francisco, his first two quality starts of the season. Smyly's ERA is back under 4.00 for the campaign. He lines up for a road start in Cincinnati next week.
Jul 30 2022Smyly (3-6) took the loss Saturday versus the Giants. He allowed five runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out five over four innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly got through the Giants' order once without giving up runs, but they got to him the second time around. In the fourth inning, he gave up back-to-back home runs to Luis Gonzalez and Joey Bart, and Smyly didn't come back out for the fifth. The southpaw has failed to complete five innings in three of his last four starts since returning from an oblique injury, though he threw 87 pitches (53 strikes) Saturday. He owns a 4.42 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 48:14 K:BB, which he'll carry into next week's projected home start versus the Marlins.
Jul 24 2022Smyly (3-5) allowed two runs (one earned) on four hits and no walks while striking out four in six innings to earn the win over the Phillies on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly settled for no-decisions in his two starts after returning from the injured list, but he earned his first win in over two months while posting his first quality start of the season Sunday. The left-hander has had mixed results since returning to the mound, posting a 4.38 ERA and 1.30 WHIP in 12.1 innings over his last three outings. He tentatively lines up to make his next start on the road against San Francisco on Saturday.
Jul 16 2022Smyly allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits, a walk and a hit batsman while striking out four in 4.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Mets in the second game of Saturday's doubleheader. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly's previous start was cut short after two innings due to performance, which didn't allow him to stretch out much after a nearly six-week absence with an oblique injury. He was much better Saturday, allowing a run to score on a third-inning groundout and another on an Eduardo Escobar solo shot in the fourth. Smyly threw 57 of 83 pitches for strikes, so he's almost up to a full starter's workload and shouldn't face much of a restriction, if any, after the All-Star break. He has a 4.22 ERA, 1.35 WHIP and 39:12 K:BB across 49 innings in 11 starts this season.
Jul 10 2022Smyly (oblique) allowed four runs on five hits and a walk with one strikeout in two-plus innings Sunday versus the Dodgers. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was expected to see a slight workload restriction, but his removal Sunday was instead based on poor performance. He was spotted a five-run lead before he took the mound, but he gave up three runs in the first inning and put traffic on the bases again in the third before his exit. The 33-year-old southpaw missed over a month with the right oblique strain. He has a 4.43 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 35:11 K:BB through 44.2 innings in 10 starts this year. The Cubs could have as many as seven pitchers stretched out as starters for the upcoming week, so it's uncertain if Smyly will get another start before the All-Star break -- if he does, it'll likely be in a home game versus the Mets next weekend.
Jul 7 2022Smyly (oblique) is expected to be activated from the injured list either Saturday or Sunday to make a start against the Dodgers, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly threw a bullpen session Thursday and apparently felt well coming off the activity. Though he made only one rehab start, Smyly told reporters he anticipates being able to throw roughly 85 pitches. Smyly is a candidate to replace Justin Steele -- who is awaiting the birth of his child -- on Saturday, or the team could opt to shift its rotation and start Smyly on Sunday.
Jul 6 2022Smyly (oblique) rejoined the Cubs on Wednesday and is expected to throw a bullpen session in the next day or two before the team decides whether to activate him from the 15-day injured list or send him to the minors for a second rehab start, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Both Smyly and fellow rehabbing starting pitcher Marcus Stroman (shoulder) were back with the big club after making rehab starts Monday and Sunday, respectively. In his outing with High-A South Bend, Smyly struck out six and covered four innings and tossed 52 pitches while allowing three earned runs on four hits. Unless the Cubs are comfortable having Smyly slot back into the rotation this weekend in Los Angeles on a limited pitch count, he'll most likely head back to South Bend or another affiliate for a second rehab start as he looks to get fully ramped up from the injury that has thus far sidelined him for five weeks.
Jul 2 2022Smyly (oblique) will begin a rehab assignment at High-A South Bend or Triple-A Iowa on Monday, Tim Stebbins of NBC Sports Chicago reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly progressed to facing live hitters Tuesday, and he threw a successful bullpen session Friday. The southpaw will may require multiple appearances in the minors prior to rejoining the Cubs, but his rehab assignment should be the final step in his recovery process.
Jul 1 2022Smyly (oblique) will pitch another bullpen session Friday, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has been sidelined since the beginning of June, but he's ramped up his activity recently. He will likely have a multiple outing rehab assignment in the coming weeks, putting his potential return to the team right around the All-Star break.
Jun 28 2022Smyly (oblique) threw 32 pitches in Tuesday's live batting practice session, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He has advanced past standard bullpen sessions, and it would seem that he will either have another live batting practice session or head out on a rehab assignment. Smyly has been sidelined all month with a right oblique strain.
Jun 23 2022Smyly (oblique) is scheduled to throw another bullpen session Friday, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's the second side session of the week for Smyly, whose strained right oblique apparently responded well to Tuesday's throwing workout. If all goes well Friday, Smyly could be cleared to face hitters in live batting practice early next week.
Jun 22 2022Smyly (oblique) said he felt good after completing a bullpen session Tuesday, Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The Cubs will likely have Smyly throw at least one more side session before having him face hitters in live batting practice or a simulated game. Smyly has been on the 15-day injured list since June 1 with a right oblique strain and will likely require a minor-league rehab assignment prior to being activated.
Jun 17 2022Smyly (oblique) has resumed playing catch, Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly sustained a right oblique strain in late May and is expected to spend about a month on the injured list. It's encouraging that the southpaw has been cleared to resume throwing, but he'll need to pitch off a mound and ramp up his intensity before he's in the mix to rejoin the major-league club.
Jun 2 2022Smyly (oblique) said Thursday that he doesn't have a timetable for his return but could miss about a month, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly landed on the 15-day injured list due to a right oblique strain Wednesday, and he appears to be in line for more than a minimal IL stint. However, the southpaw said that his recovery timetable will depend on how he feels as he builds up his workload. Smyly will rest and receive treatment during his first few days on the injured list before he resumes throwing, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.
Jun 1 2022Smyly was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right oblique strain Wednesday, retroactive to May 31. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly exited Monday's nightcap against the Brewers due to a right oblique issue, and he'll land on the injured list after being diagnosed with a strain. It's not yet clear when he'll be able to return, and the Cubs haven't announced who will take his place in the rotation.
May 30 2022Smyly was removed from his start in the second game of Monday's doubleheader against Milwaukee due to right oblique soreness, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This certainly wasn't the news the Cubs were looking for, as oblique injuries often result in trips to the injured list, especially for pitchers. The club will likely re-evaluate Smyly in the coming days to determine whether he'll require a trip to the IL.
May 18 2022Smyly (1-5) took the loss during Wednesday's 3-2 defeat at the hands of the Pirates, allowing three runs on six hits and one walk with five strikeouts in 4.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly encountered trouble his second time through Pittsburgh's order, surrendering four consecutive baserunners with two out in the third inning and a Jack Suwinski solo home run in the fifth that proved to be the difference. After winning his first start of the season, the 32-year-old has lost five straight turns -- possessing a 5.55 ERA across those games -- with Chicago only providing eight total runs of support. He'll look to get back in the win column against Cincinnati early next week.
May 13 2022Smyly (1-4) took the loss during Friday's 4-3 defeat at the hands of the Diamondbacks, allowing four runs on 10 hits and one walk with four strikeouts in six innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was able to get through Arizona's order clean the first and third time through, but was tagged for three runs on four hits in the third and an additional run on a walk and a hit in the fourth. The six innings is the longest the 32-year-old has gone this season though the 10 hits easily surpass a previous high of six as Smyly owns a high 1.35 WHIP despite a quality 3.64 ERA. He's currently slated to pitch again early next week for a third match with Pittsburgh.
May 7 2022Smyly (1-3) allowed three runs (two earned) on six hits across 4.1 innings to take the loss in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader against the Dodgers. He walked two and struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Clayton Kershaw and two Los Angeles relievers combined to shut out Chicago, so Smyly had no margin for error as he picked up his third loss of the season versus only one win. Despite the poor record, the lefty has actually pitched pretty well with a 3.04 ERA, but the 9-17 Cubs are struggling to win any ballgames these days. Smyly will look for a better outcome in his next scheduled start Friday against the Diamondbacks.
May 6 2022Smyly (personal) and the Cubs won't play Friday against the Dodgers after the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was a potential starter for Friday's matchup after spending time on the bereavement list, but the game ultimately won't be played. The southpaw will take the mound in the first game of Saturday's doubleheader, while Daniel Norris will start in the nightcap, Meghan Montemurro of the Chicago Tribune reports.
May 3 2022Smyly was placed on the bereavement list Tuesday and won't make his scheduled start against the White Sox, Tim Stebbins of NBC Sports Chicago reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Players may spend between three and seven days on the bereavement list, meaning Smyly should return either late this week or early next week. Scott Effross will make a spot start in his place Tuesday.
Apr 22 2022Smyly (1-1) was charged with the loss Friday against the Pirates after allowing four runs on six hits with four strikeouts and one walk across five innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander gave up two runs on two hits and a walk during the second inning, and Michael Chavis and Roberto Perez tacked on solo homers in the fourth and fifth frames. Smyly delivered 9.2 scoreless innings across his first two starts of 2022 but was bit Friday by Pittsburgh. He'll carry a 2.45 ERA, 1.02 WHIP and 9:2 K:BB into his next start, which projects for Thursday in Atlanta.
Apr 18 2022Smyly didn't factor into the decision Sunday against the Rockies after allowing four hits and a walk while striking out four across 4.2 scoreless innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly joined the Cubs in mid-March and found his way into the rotation due to several injuries, but he's done enough through his first two starts to believe he could earn a regular spot for the remainder of the season. He's yet to allow a run through 9.2 innings, allowing seven hits and posting a strong 5:1 K:BB. His next start is scheduled for Friday at home against the Pirates.
Apr 12 2022Smyly (1-0) tossed five scoreless innings to earn the win Tuesday against the Pirates. He allowed three hits and struck out one. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was an excellent team debut for Smyly, who didn't join the Cubs until March 19. The veteran lefty has had some success before, including his respectable 4.48 ERA across 23 starts with Atlanta last season. Chicago is currently without Alec Mills (back), Wade Miley (elbow) and Adbert Alzolay (lat), so Smyly should be entrenched in the rotation for now, and he could stick there all year if he pitches well. He's currently slated to start again Sunday against the Rockies at Coors Field.
Apr 5 2022Cubs manager David Ross confirmed Tuesday that Smyly will make his first start of the regular season Sunday against the Brewers in Chicago, Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Even though he didn't sign with the Cubs until March 19, Smyly advanced far enough along in his throwing program to be included in the team's Opening Day rotation. He'll start the final contest of the Cubs' four-game season-opening series in Milwaukee, with the lefty's placement of fourth in the pitching schedule allowing Chicago to break up right-handers Marcus Stroman and Alec Mills. Stroman will start Saturday, while Mills will get his first turn next week in Pittsburgh.
Apr 2 2022Smyly has been told he'll be a starter for the Cubs to begin the season, Jordan Bastian of MLB,com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly worked as a starter and as a reliever at times for Atlanta last season, but the Cubs will need the lefty to start with Adbert Alzolay (lat) and Wade Miley (elbow) currently out. The eventual return of those two injured pitchers could push Smyly into a long-relief role, though the veteran could stick in the rotation if he pitches well early in the year.
Mar 27 2022Smyly pitched two scoreless innings in Saturday's Cactus League game against the Padres. He allowed one hit and struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Smyly's first game action of the spring after agreeing to a one-year deal with the Cubs a week ago. The lefty started 23 games for Atlanta last season, registering a 4.48 ERA and 1.37 WHIP across 126.2 innings of work. He'll likely slot in at the back of Chicago's rotation to begin the year, particularly with Adbert Alzolay (lat) currently on the 60-day injured list.
Mar 19 2022Smyly signed a one-year, $5.25 million contract with the Cubs on Saturday, Jesse Rogers of ESPN.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly spent time with four teams across the last three seasons, and he'll now join the Cubs' pitching staff ahead of the 2022 campaign. He made 29 appearances (23 starts) for Atlanta last year and posted a 4.48 ERA and 1.37 WHIP in 126.2 innings. The southpaw will be in the mix for a back-end rotation role heading into the regular season, but he's also demonstrated an ability to serve as a middle reliever.
Oct 21 2021Smyly (1-0) allowed two runs on two hits and a walk while striking out two in 3.1 innings to earn the win over the Dodgers in Game 4 of the NLCS on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly worked behind an opener in Wednesday's matchup and gave up two runs in the bottom of the fifth inning, but he was rewarded with his first playoff win of the year while making his first 2021 postseason appearance. The southpaw tossed 56 pitches Wednesday, and it's not yet clear whether he'll be available in relief later in the series.
Oct 3 2021Smyly (11-4) earned the win in relief Saturday against the Mets after tossing three scoreless innings, giving up one hit and two walks while fanning three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly piggybacked Jesse Chavez's two-inning start and was effective enough to earn his 11th win of the campaign. If Saturday was his final outing of the regular season, he'll end the year on a strong note with six straight appearances allowing one or fewer runs. He enters the final day of the regular season posting a 4.48 ERA through 126.2 innings across 29 appearances (23 starts).
Sep 21 2021Smyly (10-4) got the win in Tuesday's 6-1 victory over Arizona, allowing one run on four hits with four strikeouts in 3.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly followed opener Jesse Chavez, who pitched 1.1 innings, and entered with a 1-0 lead that eventually grew to 4-0 in the third inning. The 32-year-old delivered a quality outing in his first multi-inning performance since being dropped from the rotation at the beginning of September and Smyly could follow Chavez again Sunday against San Diego.
Sep 1 2021Smyly won't start during the four-game series against the Rockies that begins Thursday, and manager Brian Snitker said he's unsure how the left-hander will be utilized going forward, Mark Bowman of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly last pitched Monday against the Dodgers and surrendered five runs in 4.2 innings, raising his ERA to 5.30 in eight outings since the All-Star break. Touki Toussaint will rejoin the rotation Thursday at Colorado, while Smyly's role is in flux after giving up seven homers in his past two starts.
Aug 30 2021Smyly (9-4) took the loss in Monday's 5-3 defeat at the hands of the Dodgers, allowing five runs on nine hits with five strikeouts in 4.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Los Angeles' powerful lineup got to Smyly early and often, as the 32-year-old surrendered four home runs in the game's first three innings. He was fortunate that three of them were of the solo variety, but the early 5-0 deficit proved insurmountable for Atlanta. The loss is Smyly's first since May 26, a stretch that included seven victories in 14 starts.
Aug 21 2021Smyly (9-3) earned the win over Baltimore on Saturday, pitching five innings and allowing three runs on five hits and no walks while striking out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw gave up a trio of solo homers in the contest, but those were the only runs the Orioles mustered. Smyly tied a season high with eight strikeouts and extended his streak of outings without a loss to 14. He hasn't been dominant in that span but has managed a 7-0 record along with a 3.67 ERA and 67:24 K:BB across 68.2 innings. He'll try to keep things going in next start, which is lined up to come against the Giants at home next weekend.
Aug 15 2021Smyly allowed three runs on six hits and a walk while striking out four in four innings during Sunday's win over the Nationals. He didn't factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly picked up his first win in over a month with a quality start in his last outing, but he was unable to replicate his success Sunday. Although he allowed just one baserunner in the first two innings, he gave up three runs in the third inning to tie the game. The southpaw has allowed at least two runs in five of his six appearances since the All-Star break, and he's posted a 4.55 ERA and 1.45 WHIP in 27.2 innings during that time. He tentatively lines up to start on the road against Baltimore on Saturday.
Aug 10 2021Smyly (8-3) allowed two earned runs on two hits and two walks while striking out seven across six innings, earning the win over the Reds on Tuesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly allowed just four baserunners through six innings. The only damage against him came on a two-run homer by Aristides Aquino in the second inning. It was Smyly's first quality outing since June 25, but he hasn't lost in his last 12 starts. The 32-year-old carries a 4.41 ERA and a 1.36 WHIP with 92 strikeouts in 102 innings. His next start is scheduled for Sunday in Washington.
Aug 5 2021Smyly allowed three runs on six hits and one walk while striking out two over six innings against the Cardinals on Wednesday. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander has gone exactly four innings in each of his past three starts, posting a collective 4.50 ERA and 1.92 WHIP over that span. He didn't fool many Cardinals batters Wednesday, inducing only nine swinging strikes and collecting a mere two punchouts, but Smyly bounced back reasonably well after giving up a three-run homer to Nolan Arenado in the first frame. His recent inability to go deep into contests and mediocre 4.50 ERA and 1.41 WHIP on the campaign make Smyly a rather uninspiring option in mixed fantasy leagues, particularly considering the fact that his K/9 has sunk to 8.0 this season. However, he has built some interest since the start of June with a 3.35 ERA and 5-0 record over 11 games.
Jul 29 2021Smyly allowed three earned runs on nine hits and one walk while striking out six across four innings Thursday against the Mets. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was gifted a 5-1 lead by the midpoint of the game, though he failed to record an out in the bottom of the fifth inning and failed to qualify for the win. Though he survived without a disastrous final line, Smyly allowed multiple runners to reach base in all but one of the frames he worked. Smyly had worked at least five innings in six consecutive starts spanning from June 13 to July 18, though he has now lasted only four frames in two consecutive starts. With the disappointing outing, Smyly now has a 4.40 ERA with an 83:34 K:BB across 92 innings for the season.
Jul 25 2021Smyly underwent tests Sunday that revealed no structural damage to his left knee, and he's expected to make his next turn through the rotation Thursday against the Mets, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was pulled after four shutout innings in Saturday's win over the Phillies with the left knee injury, but follow-up evaluations don't appear to have revealed anything overly concerning. The southpaw is scheduled to go through a workout Monday, and if all goes well, he should get the green light to take the hill Thursday without any restrictions.
Jul 24 2021Smyly will have his left knee examined Sunday after exiting Saturday's start after four innings, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Despite the early exit for Smyly, the team doesn't appear overly concerned. Speaking after the game, manager Brian Snitker relayed that Smyly wasn't in pain and that he could make his next start. Even so, he will undergo further evaluation with the team in Philadelphia on Sunday.
Jul 7 2021Smyly (7-3) allowed three runs on nine hits and three walks in five innings of work. He struck out four and earned the win in Wednesday's 14-3 victory over the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: All three runs came via a first-inning, three-run homer by Jacob Stallings. Though Smyly dealt with plenty of traffic on the bases, he held Pittsburgh scoreless in the next four innings to cap off an 88-pitch outing. The lefty has earned the win in five consecutive starts and has yielded three runs or fewer in seven straight. Considering his inconsistencies through May, Smyly has certainly become a reliable starter for the Braves, and he will make his next start after the All-Star break.
Jul 3 2021Smyly (6-3) picked up the win Friday, allowing three hits and two walks over 5.2 scoreless innings in a 1-0 victory over the Marlins. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The lefty reeled off his fourth straight win, while the seven whiffs were his highest total since May 20. Smyly has been stingy since the beginning of May, posting a 2.32 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 27:11 K:BB through 31 innings over his last six outings.
Jun 26 2021Smyly (5-3) picked up the win in Friday's 3-2 victory over the Reds, allowing one run one six hits over six innings. He struck out three without walking a batter. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran lefty held Cincinnati off the board until the sixth inning, and exited after tossing 84 pitches (54 strikes). It was Smyly's first quality start since May 20 and his fifth of the year, and he'll take a 4.79 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 57:23 K:BB through 67.2 innings into his next outing.
Jun 20 2021Smyly (4-3) won Game 2 of Sunday's 1-0 doubleheader against St. Louis, going 5.2 innings and allowing no runs on one hit and three walks with five strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was excellent in this one and submitted his longest start in over a month, blanking a solid Cardinals team in the process. It was only Smyly's third start allowing zero or one run in 12 turns, though he's been decent since May aside from one blow-up outing. His upside is limited by his inability to pitch deep into games, though Smyly remains a decent streaming option.
Jun 19 2021Smyly won't pitch Saturday against the Cardinals since the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Saturday's game will be made up as part of a doubleheader Sunday. Smyly will start Game 2 of the twin bill, while Bryse Wilson will take the mound in the matinee.
Jun 13 2021Smyly (3-3) allowed two runs on six hits and a walk with six strikeouts in five innings to earn the win over Miami on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly collected his first win since May 14, but it wasn't an easy outing. The southpaw needed 91 pitches (64 strikes) to get through five innings. The 32-year-old completed five innings for the seventh time in 11 starts this year. He has a 5.63 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 49:20 K:BB in 56 innings overall. Smyly lines up for a home start versus St. Louis next weekend.
Jun 8 2021Smyly allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits and three walks over 4.1 innings during Tuesday's 9-5 win over the Phillies. He had zero strikeouts and didn't factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 31-year-old threw 48 of 80 pitches for strikes and generated only five swinging strikes. Smyly is winless in his past four starts and has given up 16 runs (15 earned) with a 17:7 K:BB across 20 innings during that stretch.
Jun 3 2021Smyly didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 5-3 loss to the Nationals, giving up three runs on seven hits and two walks over 4.1 innings. He struck out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw tossed 90 pitches (57 strikes) before exiting in line for his fourth loss of the year, but Atlanta tied things up in the seventh inning to take Smyly off the hook. He's still been tagged for 13 runs and five home runs over his last three starts (15.2 innings), and he'll carry a 5.98 ERA, 1.37 WHIP and 43:16 K:BB through 46.2 frames on the season into his next outing.
May 27 2021Smyly (2-3) took the loss Wednesday, coughing up seven runs on five hits and a walk over 5.1 innings as Atlanta fell 9-5 to the Red Sox. He struck out four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The night got progressively worse for the lefty as it went on -- Boston scored one run in the second inning and two in the fourth before things completely fell apart in the sixth. The disaster snapped a streak of three straight quality starts for Smyly, but he's been incredibly volatile all year, and in his eight outings he has four quality starts and four in which he got tagged for at least five earned runs. He'll carry a 5.95 ERA, fueled by a 2.76 HR/9, and a 37:14 K:BB through 42.1 innings into his next start.
May 20 2021Smyly allowed three earned runs on six hits and one walk while striking out seven across six innings in the loss to the Pirates on Thursday. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly posted a quality start despite allowing three runs on a pair of home runs. The 32-year-old threw 73 of his 109 pitches for strikes. It was his third straight quality start after he struggled to start the season. His seven strikeouts were a good sign, considering he hasn't had more than four punchouts since his season debut. He has a 5.11 ERA and 1.32 WHIP with 33 strikeouts in 37 innings. His next scheduled start is Wednesday in Boston.
May 14 2021Smyly (2-2) allowed one run on four hits and a walk over six innings Friday, striking out four and earning a win over the Brewers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly yielded an RBI single to Luis Urias in the second inning but was never in much danger through the rest of his solid outing. After he was hammered for five runs in three straight starts, the 31-year-old lefty has allowed just one earned run over the last 12 innings. Smyly lowered his season ERA to 5.23 through 21 innings. He's currently lined up to face the Mets at home next week.
May 11 2021Smyly will pitch the series opener Friday against the Brewers, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran left-hander will be pitching on almost twice his normal rest and will face a lefty-heavy Milwaukee lineup. Smyly is coming off by far his best outing of the season, a six-inning performance with no earned runs May 6 against the Nationals.
May 7 2021Smyly (1-2) gave up an unearned run on four hits and four walks while fanning four across six innings Thursday against the Nationals. He earned the win. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly can't be blamed for the run scored by the Nationals while he was on the mound, as a fielding error from Ronald Acuna allowed Josh Bell to score on a double from Kyle Schwarber. The 31-year-old lefty was dominant the rest of the way, though, and he recorded his second quality start of the season. The walks are a bit concerning and he has posted a 11:10 K:BB over his last three outings. As things stand now, Smyly is expected to take the ball next week at home against the Blue Jays.
Apr 30 2021Smyly (0-2) took the loss in Friday's 13-5 rout at the hands of the Blue Jays, surrendering six runs (five earned) on seven hits -- including three home runs -- and four walks over four-plus innings. He struck out three. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After two scoreless frames, the southpaw served up homers in three straight innings before getting the hook, digging a 6-0 hole Atlanta couldn't climb out of. Smyly has been tagged for six homers in his last two starts and nine long balls in only 19 innings on the season, sticking him with a bloated 8.05 ERA, but as yet there's been no indication his rotation spot could be in jeopardy.
Apr 25 2021Smyly (0-1) allowed six runs (five earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out four across four innings to take the loss Sunday against the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly did not have a good afternoon Sunday, making his first start in game two of the doubleheader since being reinstated from the 10-day injured list. Three different Diamondbacks' players went deep off him, including two in the first inning. The 31-year-old is struggling in his first three starts with a 7.20 ERA. The good news is that he has issued only three walks in 15 innings.
Apr 24 2021Smyly won't start Saturday against the Diamondbacks as scheduled as the game has been postponed due to inclement weather. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader Sunday. Smyly will start the second game, with Bryse Wilson starting the first contest.
Apr 21 2021Smyly (forearm) is scheduled to start Saturday's game against the Diamondbacks, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has been on the 10-day injured list with left forearm inflammation since April 16, but the issue isn't particularly serious. As a result, he'll be able to return after missing just one turn through the rotation. Smyly made two starts to begin the season and posted a 5.73 ERA and 0.91 WHIP in 11 innings.
Apr 16 2021Smyly's forearm inflammation isn't considered particularly serious and may only cost him one start, David O'Brien of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has had his fair share of injuries, including Tommy John surgery in 2017, so there would seem to be some justification for pessimism about his latest arm troubles. His team doesn't appear to be worried, however, with manager Brian Snitker noting that the lefty could have pitched through the injury if it occurred later in the season. For now, Atlanta is being cautious, sending him to the injured list and recalling Kyle Wright to take his place in the rotation.
Apr 12 2021Smyly allowed five runs on five hits while striking out three over five innings but did not factor in the decision during Sunday's 7-6 loss to the Phillies. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly had a solid start to the game, as he gave up one hit through the first three innings, but fell apart in the fourth when he allowed two homers that amounted to four runs and a 5-3 lead for the Phillies. He did only have one bad inning but still wasn't nearly as sharp as he was in his first outing, as he managed just three strikeouts and continued to have some trouble with the long ball. He'll take a 5.73 ERA into his next start Friday against the Cubs, as he'll look to pick up his first win of the season.
Apr 6 2021Smyly gave up four runs (two earned) on four hits and one walk over six innings during Tuesday's 6-5 loss at Washington. He had eight strikeouts and did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander was dealt two unearned runs after an error during the second inning, but he remained in line for the victory until the bullpen surrendered one run in each of the final two frames to blow the game. Nonetheless, it was a solid Braves debut for Smyly, and he'll attempt to perform similarly Sunday versus the Phillies.
Mar 26 2021Smyly threw five scoreless innings in Thursday's Grapefruit League game against the Rays, allowing only one hit and one walk while striking out six. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw lowered his spring ERA to 5.00 with the outing, but Smyly's 12:2 K:BB over nine innings offers a better indication of how he's pitched. He's expected to begin the season as Atlanta's No. 4 starter following a dazzling 2020 campaign with the Giants that saw him post a 3.42 ERA, 1.10 WHIP and 35.2 percent strikeout rate over 26.1 innings.
Mar 4 2021Smyly allowed one hit over two scoreless innings against the Orioles in his Grapefruit League debut for Atlanta on Wednesday, striking out the side in the second inning, Gabriel Burns of The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports. "This whole spring I've felt great," Smyly said afterward. "I feel like I have a great idea of the kind of pitcher I am. It takes a long time for a lot of guys to figure it out. The game is always evolving. You have to keep making adjustments. But I feel like I'm in a really good place with how to pitch, how to attack hitters. I'm just trying to carry that over." ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The veteran southpaw has battled injuries throughout his career but has had stretches of dominance in between IL stints, including a stunning 35.2 percent strikeout rate over 26.1 innings last season for the Giants. Atlanta may have the rotation depth to weather an extended absence from Smyly, but if he can pitch like he did in 2020 for significantly more than just five starts, it would provide a big boost to the team's chances of defending its NL East crown.
Nov 16 2020Smyly signed a one-year, $11 million contract with Atlanta on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly posted a 6.24 ERA in 2019, his first season back after missing two years due to Tommy John surgery. In 2020, however, he looked far better, posting a 3.42 ERA while striking out an impressive 37.8 percent of opposing batters. While that did come in a small sample of just 26.1 innings, it also came with a jump in his fastball velocity from 91.2 mph all the way up to 93.8. It would be a surprise if he can maintain that level of strikeout dominance over a full season given that he owns a solid but considerably less impressive 24.0 percent mark over the course of his career in that category, but there's reason to believe his 2019 blip is behind him and that he'll be quite a useful option in 2021.
Sep 27 2020Smyly (0-1) allowed two runs on three hits and a walk over five innings Sunday, striking out 10 and taking the loss against the Padres. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was strong Sunday but the Giants offense didn't provide much help. He coughed up a solo shot to Wil Myers in the second inning and an RBI double in the fourth to Mitch Moreland. Despite taking the loss, he struck out a season-high 10 batters and lowered his season ERA to 2.78 in 22.2 innings.
Sep 23 2020Smyly did not factor in the decision against Colorado on Tuesday, throwing 5.1 innings and allowing one run on four hits and two walks while striking out five. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly took the mound in a game with major playoff implications for San Francisco and held the Rockies scoreless until the sixth inning. He departed the contest with a chance for his first win but instead had to settle for a no-decision. Smyly has pitched well for the Giants this season, registering a 3.94 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 27:6 K:BB over 16 innings. He's lined up to start the team's regular-season finale against San Diego on Sunday in a game that could determine a playoff berth.
Sep 16 2020Smyly gave up three runs on four hits and a walk and struck out eight over 3.2 innings in a no-decision versus the Mariners on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly threw 51-of-78 pitches for strikes in a solid but short performance. The southpaw has a 3.94 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and 27 strikeouts across 16 innings this season. Smyly still hasn't pitched more than four innings in any of his five appearances. His next start is expected to be Monday at home versus the Rockies.
Sep 15 2020Smyly will start Wednesday's game against the Mariners, Andrew Baggarly of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The poor air quality in Seattle caused a postponement of Tuesday's contest with the remaining two games being move to San Francisco, but Smyly will still start Wednesday as previously scheduled. The veteran southpaw worked as the bulk pitcher in his first outing off the injured list last week and allowed two runs (one earned) on two hits with eight strikeouts and one walk over four innings. Tyler Anderson was originally scheduled to start Tuesday but will now take the mound in Thursday's series finale.
Sep 14 2020Smyly will start Wednesday's game against the Mariners, Andrew Baggarly of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly tossed four innings out of the bullpen Thursday against the Padres after returning from the injured list, and he's evidently shown that he's ready to enter the rotation. The southpaw owns a 2.92 ERA and 1.14 WHIP with 19 strikeouts over 12.1 innings so far this season.
Sep 11 2020Smyly (finger) worked four innings of long relief in Thursday's 6-1 loss to the Padres, giving up two runs (one earned) on two hits and a walk while striking out eight. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After being reinstated from the injured list earlier in the day following a six-week absence due to a left index finger strain, Smyly wasn't fully stretched out for a traditional starting role, so manager Gabe Kapler elected to have him piggyback Trevor Cahill, who took the loss after giving up four runs in three innings. Smyly responded to the role change about as well as the Giants could have hoped, as the lefty's eight strikeouts were the most by a San Francisco reliever since 1984, per Andrew Simon of MLB.com. According to Jesse Sanchez of MLB.com, Kapler said after the game that he was impressed with how the southpaw located his pitches and maintained velocity throughout the outing, but the skipper was unwilling to say how Smyly will be deployed moving forward. Smyly could re-enter the rotation, continue to piggyback Cahill, or work in more of a hybrid role based on the Giants' needs.
Sep 10 2020Smyly (finger) was reinstated from the 10-day injured list Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Trevor Cahill is starting Thursday, so perhaps Smyly will piggyback him as a lefty following a righty, or he could enter the rotation later this week. He had a 3.24 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 11 strikeouts in 8.1 innings prior to hitting the IL.
Sep 7 2020Smyly (finger) could return from the injured list Wednesday or Thursday, Maria I. Guardado of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has been sidelined for over a month while dealing with a strained left index finger, but he's been steadily increasing his workload recently. Manager Gabe Kapler said that he could return to the rotation during the week. Tyler Anderson or Trevor Cahill could take on a bullpen role going forward depending on which day Smyly returns to action.
Sep 4 2020Smyly (finger) will throw three innings in a simulated game Saturday, Amy Gutierrez of NBC Sports Bay Area reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has been out for over a month with a strained left index finger, but he appears to be closing in on a return. He owned a 3.24 ERA and an 11:4 K:BB in 8.1 innings prior to suffering the injury.
Aug 30 2020Smyly (finger) is slated to report to the Giants' alternate training site in Sacramento on Tuesday to face hitters, Evan Webeck of The San Jose Mercury News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Jeff Samardzija (shoulder) is scheduled to do the same Tuesday, as the two starting pitchers remain on similar timelines to rejoin the active roster. Smyly received the green light to head to the alternate site after he completed a successful bullpen session Saturday, his second of the week. If Smyly fares well while facing hitters Tuesday, he could be a candidate to return from the 10-day injured list next weekend, when the Giants could require a replacement in the rotation for Trevor Cahill (hip).
Aug 25 2020Smyly (finger) will throw a bullpen session Wednesday, Maria I. Guardado of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He continues to progress from a left index finger sprain. This will mark his second bullpen session, so he could soon advance to simulated games at the alternate training site.
Aug 14 2020Smyly (finger) threw off flat ground Friday and will be reevaluated over the weekend, Kerry Crowley of The San Jose Mercury News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has already served the minimum 10 days on the injured list with a strained finger, but his return doesn't appear to be imminent. A clearer timeline should emerge over the weekend.
Aug 4 2020Smyly (finger) won't throw for 7-to-10 days as he continues physical therapy, Henry Schulman of the San Francisco Chronicle reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was placed on the 10-day injured list Sunday with a strained left finger, but Tuesday's update indicates that he won't return after the minimum amount of time. The southpaw will be re-evaluated once the team returns to San Francisco late next week, after which a better timetable for his return could be established. Smyly made three appearances (two starts) to begin the season, allowing three runs on seven hits with an 11:4 K:BB over 8.1 innings. Tyler Anderson, Conner Menez and Trevor Cahill (finger) are candidates to fill Smyly's role in the rotation while he's sidelined.
Aug 2 2020Smyly was placed on the 10-day injured list Sunday with a strained left finger, Amy Gutierrez of NBC Sports Bay Area reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly exited Saturday's start with the injury and will be sidelined for at least two turns through the rotation after undergoing an MRI, though the severity of the injury remains unclear. Tyler Anderson, Conner Menez or Trevor Cahill are potential options to step into the rotation in his absence.
Aug 1 2020Smyly exited Saturday's start against the Rangers with a left finger injury, Alex Pavlovic of NBC Sports Bay Area reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander surrendered two runs during the opening frame but was pitching well with seven strikeouts through four innings, but he was unable to start the fifth frame. It's unclear if the finger issue -- which was officially labeled left finger discomfort, per John Shea of the San Francisco Chronicle -- will impact Smyly's availability for his next start.
Jul 26 2020Smyly started Sunday's game against the Dodgers and pitched 3.1 innings, allowing one run on four hits and two walks. He struck out two batters. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly did an admirable job keeping this offense at bay, but manager Gabe Kapler did not hesitate to turn to his bullpen early with extra relievers at his disposal. The win was credited to Wandy Peralta. While Smyly has been prone to the long ball in recent years, he could eventually find his way back onto the streaming radar pitching in San Francisco, once he's stretched out a bit more (64 pitches Saturday). The lefty gets the Rangers at home next weekend.
Jan 16 2020Smyly signed a one-year contract with the Giants on Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw will join the Giants' pitching staff after posting a career-worst 6.24 ERA and 1.59 WHIP over 25 appearances (21 starts) with the Phillies and Rangers last season. The deal is worth $4 million over one year, Andrew Baggarly of The Athletic reports. Smyly will likely compete for a role in the major-league rotation during spring training despite his struggles in 2019.
Sep 25 2019Smyly struck out 10 while allowing two runs on four hits with no walks across 6.1 innings during a no-decision against the Nationals on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 30-year-old saved one of his best outings of the year for last, but unfortunately for him, it still didn't end in a victory. The runner he left during the seventh scored after he exited to tie the game, leaving him with a no-decision. Smyly still ended on a high note, but his overall season was ugly -- 4-7 record, 6.24 ERA, 1.59 WHIP and 120 strikeouts in 114 innings.
Sep 20 2019Smyly (3-2) took the loss after giving up four runs on five hits and three walks over two innings Friday night against the Indians. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly struggled right from the start in this one, allowing two runs in the first inning followed by two more in the second prior to being lifted. Prior to Friday's rough outing, the 30-year-old southpaw has surrendered just four earned runs over his last three starts, though he sits with a 6.44 ERA and 1.64 WHIP with 110 punchouts over 107.2 innings this season.
Sep 12 2019Smyly did not factor into the decision during Thursday's win over the Braves, lasting just four innings while allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits and a walk with six strikeouts. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was mostly hurt by the long ball, serving up a two-run home run to Ozzie Albies in the first inning, then giving up another two-run shot to Adam Duvall in the fourth. The southpaw was facing the Braves for the first time this season and facing Albies for the first time in his career. Despite the brief outing, Smyly managed to record six punch outs, three of which came in the first frame. The slumping 30-year-old will take a 4.14 ERA and 1.29 WHIP into a rematch with Julio Teheran and the Braves during his next start on Wednesday.
Sep 8 2019Smyly (4-6) picked up the win Saturday, allowing four hits and two walks over seven scoreless innings while striking out six in a 5-0 victory over the Mets. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw tossed 70 of 108 pitches for strikes en route to his third win, and third quality start, in nine trips to the mound as a Phillie. Smyly now sports a 3.93 ERA and 52:17 K:BB through 50.1 innings with his new club, and he'll look to come up big again in his next outing Thursday, at home against Atlanta.
Sep 2 2019Smyly (3-6) allowed one run on four hits with three walks and eight strikeouts across 5.1 innings while earning a victory against the Reds on Monday.
Aug 28 2019Smyly allowed four runs on nine hits with zero walks and four strikeouts across 5.2 innings during a no-decision against the Pirates on Tuesday.
Aug 21 2019Smyly didn't factor into the decision in Wednesday's 5-2 win over the Red Sox, allowing two runs on five hits and three walks over 3.2 innings while striking out four.
Aug 15 2019Smyly allowed five earned runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out six across five innings Thursday against the Cubs. He did not factor into the decision.
Aug 9 2019Smyly took a no-decision during Friday's win over the Giants, allowing six runs on seven hits and three walks while striking out four over 5.2 innings.
Aug 4 2019Smyly (2-6) took the loss after surrendering five runs on four hits and a walk while striking out seven over five innings Sunday against the White Sox.
Jul 30 2019Smyly (2-5) earned the win Tuesday against the Giants after giving up only four hits and one walk over seven shutout innings. He recorded five strikeouts.
Jul 28 2019Smyly is listed as the Phillies' scheduled starter for Tuesday's game against the Giants.
Jul 21 2019Smyly gave up one run on four hits and two walks while striking out eight through six innings in a no-decision against the Pirates on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2019Smyly has officially signed<\/a> with the Phillies and will start Sunday against Pittsburgh.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 19 2019Smyly is scheduled to start Sunday's game at Pittsburgh, Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philadelphia<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 19 2019Smyly signed a major-league contract with the Phillies on Friday and could enter the starting rotation Sunday versus the Pirates, Scott Lauber of The Philadelphia Inquirer<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 1 2019Smyly agreed to a minor-league contract with the Brewers on Monday, Robert Murray of The Athletic<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 28 2019Smyly was released by the Rangers on Friday, Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 20 2019The Rangers designated Smyly for assignment Thursday, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 15 2019Smyly gave up a run on three hits and a walk while striking out five over three innings of relief to record his first save of the season in Friday's 7-1 win over the Reds.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 12 2019Smyly (ankle) will not start Friday against the Reds, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 12 2019Smyly (ankle) will head to the bullpen but not the injured list, Jessica Camerato of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 11 2019General manager Jon Daniels acknowledged Monday that Smyly could be a candidate for the 10-day injured list while the southpaw continues to deal with lingering effects of a sprained ankle that first surfaced in mid-May, Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News<\/a> reports. \"[The ankle] has been a bit of a limiting factor for him,\" Daniels said. \"He hasn't been able to fully push off all the time...We don't have a lot of options. There's not a ton of pitching readily available.\"Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 9 2019Smyly (1-5) allowed five runs on six hits and two walks in three innings Sunday, striking out three batters and taking the loss to Oakland.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 5 2019Manager Chris Woodward said Smyly will remain in the rotation either as a starter or a primary pitcher behind an opener, Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jun 4 2019Smyly (1-4) allowed seven earned runs on eight hits and two walks while striking out two across 3.1 innings to take the loss Tuesday against the Orioles.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 29 2019Smyly will serve as the Rangers' primary pitcher behind opener Jose Leclerc in Wednesday's game against the Mariners, Jeff Wilson of the Fort Worth Star-Telegram<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 29 2019Smyly allowed seven earned runs on eight hits and three walks while striking out four across five innings Wednesday against the Mariners. He did not factor into the decision.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 25 2019Smyly (1-3) lasted six innings Friday against the Angels, allowing three runs on five hits and four walks while striking out four to pick up the win.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 19 2019Smyly allowed two runs on three hits with four strikeouts and four walks across four innings during a no-decision against the Cardinals on Sunday.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 16 2019Manager Chris Woodward confirmed Smyly (ankle) would make his next start Sunday against the Cardinals, Robert Falkoff of MLB.com<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 15 2019Smyly (ankle) could have his next scheduled start pushed back a day or two, Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 13 2019Smyly will serve as a traditional starter when he pitches Friday at home against the Cardinals, Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 12 2019Smyly (0-3) took the loss Saturday, giving up five runs (four earned) on four hits and four walks over 4.2 innings while striking out three as the Rangers were routed 11-4 by the Astros.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 10 2019Smyly, the projected starter Saturday against the Astros, may be used as the primary pitcher after an opener begins the game, Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
May 10 2019Smyly will serve as the primary pitcher Saturday against the Astros and is expected to enter the game in the second inning, Evan Grant of The Dallas Morning News<\/a> reports.Subscribe now<\/a> to instantly reveal our take on this news.
Jul 21 2018Smyly (elbow) will throw a pair of sim games on Sunday and Thursday, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports.Smyly is working his way back from Tommy John surgery and has been out since June of 2017. Assuming his sim games go well, he could start a rehab assignment by the end of July. Given the length of his absence, the rehab assignment won't be a short one, but he could return sometime in the middle of August.
Jul 9 2018Smyly (elbow) expects to start a minor-league rehab assignment near the end of July, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports.Smyly stated that he's worked up to three frames in simulated games, so he's making steady progress on his way back from Tommy John surgery. Smyly went under the knife in June of 2017. If he can begin a rehab assignment by the end of the month, the 29-year-old has a chance to come off the disabled list sometime in August.
Jun 6 2018Smyly (elbow) will throw a live batting practice session prior to Friday's game against the Pirates, Mark Gonzales of The Chicago Tribune reports.Smyly continues to work his way back from Tommy John surgery that he underwent last June. The left-hander remains on track for late-July/early-August return though it's likely that he will require a lengthy rehab stint once his arm has been deemed healthy enough. During 30 starts with the Rays in 2016, Smyly posted a 4.88 ERA and 1.27 WHIP with 167 strikeouts in 175.1 innings.
Apr 16 2018Smyly (elbow) said his recovery from Tommy John surgery is going well and he expects to start throwing from a mound this week, Gordon Wittenmyer of the Chicago Sun-Times reports.Smyly, who underwent surgery last June, has been doing rehab work in Arizona. After a short break from his program, his next step is a return to throwing from a mound. "Everything's been great," Smyly said. "The arm feels great. I just have to keep it going." Barring any setbacks, the next target is a minor-league rehab assignment by July and a possible return to the majors in August. The 28-year-old lefty may not be able to secure a rotation spot this season, but he could give the Cubs another option in the bullpen if he comes back sharp.
Feb 19 2018Smyly (elbow) is hopeful to return from the 60-day disabled list at some point in August, Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune reports.The Cubs inked Smyly to a two-year, $10 million contract this offseason with the understanding that the lefty would spend the first season of the deal rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, which he underwent last July. The 28-year-old is apparently optimistic that he'll only need 13 months to fully recover from the procedure, but a firm return date likely won't be established until he advances further into his throwing program. Smyly indicated he's currently in the middle phase of that program, but there's no indication that he's especially close to facing hitters.
Feb 16 2018Smyly (elbow) was put on the 60-day disabled list Friday.Smyly underwent Tommy John surgery in June of 2017, and it's expected that the left-hander will miss most, if not all, of this upcoming season. The Cubs officially placed him on the DL due to the recent signing of Shae Simmons, in order to free up a spot on the 40-man roster.
Dec 12 2017Smyly (elbow) agreed to a two-year contract with the Cubs on Tuesday, Buster Olney of ESPN reports.Smyly is not expected to debut with the Cubs until the latter portion of the 2018 season, as he just underwent Tommy John reconstructive elbow surgery this past June. The move is likely more 2019 focused, as Smyly could be seen as a nice buy-low option in the long run. He has a career 3.74 ERA and 1.19 WHIP across 156 appearances.
Dec 12 2017Smyly agreed to a two-year contract with the Cubs on Tuesday, Buster Olney of ESPN reports.Smyly is not expected to debut with the Cubs until the latter portion of the 2018 season, as he just underwent Tommy John reconstructive elbow surgery this past June. The move is likely more 2019 focused, as Smyly could be seen as a nice buy-low option in the long run. He has a career 3.74 ERA and 1.19 WHIP across 156 appearances.
Dec 1 2017The Mariners declined to tender Smyly (elbow) a contract for 2018, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.This is hardly a surprise given that Smyly will likely miss the first half of 2018 at least after undergoing Tommy John surgery last summer. Smyly showed great promise earlier in his career between Detroit and Tampa Bay, but the injuries have added up -- he missed a large portion of 2015 with shoulder troubles -- and at this point it's anyone's guess as to what kind of pitcher he will be when he comes back.
Nov 2 2017Smyly (elbow) was taken off the 60-day DL and added to the Mariners' 40-man roster Thursday, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.This is just a housekeeping move by the organization, as David Phelps (elbow) was also reinstated from the 60-day DL and placed on the team's active roster. In terms of Smyly, the southpaw is still expected to miss most, if not all, of the 2018 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery that he underwent in July.
Aug 2 2017Smyly (elbow), who underwent Tommy John surgery in July and is currently rehabbing in Dallas, visited with the Mariners in Arlington on Tuesday, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports. "He's doing OK," Servais said. "He really likes it here on our team and feels bad he wasn't able to contribute. I'd still love to have him here going forward. Those are deals [general manager Jerry Dipoto] and his agent have to work out, but I still think there's a real good fit for him here."Smyly met with manager Scott Servais and both parties reiterated their hope that the southpaw can eventually take the mound for the Mariners. The veteran was injured during spring training, so he's actually yet to throw a pitch for his new team. Whether he ever will remains up in the air for the foreseeable future, as Smyly is also likely to miss most of 2018 due to the timing of the surgery. While he has one year left of arbitration eligibility, he'll become a free agent unless the team is willing to tender him the required minimum of 80 percent of this year's $6.88 million contract.
Jun 28 2017Smyly (elbow) was diagnosed Wednesday with a torn UCL and will undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery.It's brutal news for Smyly, who was already in the midst of recovering from an elbow injury before suffering a setback during a simulated start Tuesday. The southpaw has yet to pitch since being acquired by the Mariners in January and will undergo the procedure on July 6, meaning his one-year contract will have expired by the time he's healed. Smyly posted a 4.88 ERA and 1.27 WHIP in 30 starts with Tampa Bay last year and first experienced the initial elbow soreness during spring training.
Jun 27 2017Smyly (elbow) was scratched from his scheduled Wednesday simulated start after experiencing an apparent setback Tuesday, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports.The specifics of Smyly's setback have not been revealed, but the Mariners are saying that there currently is no timetable set for his return to the mound. This is a tough blow for Smyly, as he was progressing well in his rehab from a preseason elbow strain.
Jun 27 2017Smyly (elbow) has been scratched from his scheduled simulated game Wednesday, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports.It was set to be Smyly's second such session in the past week, but he's being held out for an undisclosed reason. The veteran starter had been steadily progressing in his recovery after being diagnosed with an elbow strain in spring training, so any setbacks could curtail his return even further.
Jun 24 2017Smyly (elbow) successfully threw a 25-pitch simulated inning Saturday and is aiming for a return between July 17-19, Bob Dutton of the Tacoma News Tribune reports.The session marked a key step in the overall recovery process for Smyly and, more importantly, established a firm timetable as to his rehab moving forward. "I thought he looked pretty darn good," said manager Scott Servais. "Very encouraged by what I saw today." Smyly is set to pitch two simulated innings next Wednesday before beginning a three-start rehab assignment with Triple-A Tacoma. The southpaw is seeking to make his first start with Seattle after posting a 4.88 ERA over 30 starts with the Rays last season.
Jun 21 2017Smyly (elbow) is set to face hitting Saturday after completing a successful bullpen Tuesday, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.Saturday will mark the first time Smyly faces live batters since being placed on the disabled list in late March. Smyly noted that his bullpen session Tuesday went "great" which could lead into the left-hander partaking in a rehab assignment before the end of the month. The plan remains for Smyly to join the club around the second week of July barring any additional setbacks.
Jun 16 2017Smyly (elbow) threw a 40-pitch bullpen session Friday, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports.The best news from this development is that 10 of the pitches were offspeed pitches. Smyly seems to be ramping up the intensity of his workouts at a good pace, and if all goes well, he could begin throwing simulated games after just one more bullpen session.
Jun 10 2017Smyly (elbow) tossed a bullpen Saturday, prior to the Mariners game against Toronto, Ryan Divish of the Seattle Times reports.The plan is for Smyly to throw at least five more bullpens before completing a simulated game. Each one is figured to ramp up while his initial session Saturday saw the southpaw throw 22 pitches, all of which were fastballs. Once Smyly has completed his bullpens and simulated game, he will embark on a rehab assignment before rejoining the Mariners sometime in mid-July.
Jun 8 2017Smyly (elbow) will throw a bullpen session Saturday, Bob Dutton of the Tacoma News Tribune reports.This news comes after Smyly took another step forward Thursday by throwing off a mound. Saturday will be another significant step for Smyly as he'll log a full bullpen session. Given the length of Smyly's absence, he'll likely need a couple additional bullpen sessions before the Mariners map out a rehab assignment for the left-hander.
Jun 8 2017Smyly (elbow) will throw off the mound Thursday for the first time since his injury this spring, MLB.com's Greg Johns reports.After playing catch in the outfield, Smyly took to the mound for the first time since spring training for a brief bullpen outing. Manager Scott Servais said that the southpaw has been "picking up the intensity" recently, but there is still no timetable for his return. It is likely that Smyly won't return until around the All-Star game, but Thursday's progress is a positive step after being placed on the 60-day DL to start the season.
Jun 7 2017Manager Scott Servais said Smyly (elbow) has been "picking up the intensity," but has yet to return to the mound, Emily Giambalvo of The Seattle Times reports.There's still no timetable for when the southpaw may be able to return to action, even though this recent progression bodes well from an overall recovery standpoint. It's almost impossible to predict Smyly's return until begins throwing from the mound, but the Mariners would love to get his arm in their injury-riddled rotation that includes the absences of Felix Hernandez (shoulder) and Hisashi Iwakuma (shoulder).
May 30 2017Smyly (elbow) could be ready to come off the 60-day disabled list in late June, Bob Dutton ofThat return timeline is a fairly loose estimate, as Smyly remains limited to playing catch and has yet to throw off a mound. Since the lefty has been out all season with the strained elbow flexor, he'll require multiple rehab starts once he's advanced past tossing bullpen sessions and facing hitters in batting practice. Until Smyly advances further in the rehab process, there are likely better injury-stash options on the waiver wire in most leagues for fantasy owners looking to fill out bench spots.
May 26 2017Smyly (elbow) increased the intensity of his throwing program Friday by moving out to a distance of about 90 feet, Bob Dutton of The News Tribune reports.Smyly continues on track for a return to the decimated Mariners rotation sometime in June. If all goes according to plan, the team could have its original projected 2017 starting five healthy for the first time in just a few weeks, as Felix Hernandez (shoulder), Hisashi Iwakuma (shoulder) and James Paxton (forearm) are all projected to return soon as well.
May 18 2017Smyly (elbow) "felt pretty good" after playing catch Wednesday and will throw every other day for the foreseeable future, Bob Condotta of The Seattle Times reports. ""Just build some arm strength,'' manager Scott Servais said. "Get him out there playing some long toss then get him to a bullpen and go from there."The veteran is eligible to come off the DL on May 29, but his current pace may leave him a bit short of that goal. However, Smyly isn't experiencing any setbacks, which remains the biggest takeaway from his progress reports. The 27-year-old southpaw had a rocky final outing before his injury this spring but was solid over his first two starts, firing five scoreless innings and only giving up one hit.
May 17 2017Smyly threw for the first time since spring training Wednesday, Shannon Drayer of 710 ESPN Seattle reports.This marks an important step in Smyly's recovery from an elbow strain that has kept him sidelined all season. He's expected to need at least 3-to-4 weeks in a throwing program before he heads on a rehab assignment, so he's still got a ways to go. A firmer timetable for his return should start to materialize as he continues to progress in his recovery.
May 9 2017Smyly (elbow) hopes to start playing catch and begin light throwing in approximately two weeks, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.The veteran lefty's original timeframe for resuming any type of throwing was approximately six weeks from April 4, so Johns' reported estimate is within striking distance. Smyly is expected to need 3-4 weeks minimum in a throwing program before likely heading to the minors for some rehab appearances.
Apr 4 2017Smyly was placed on the 60-day DL on Tuesday.Smyly had been expected to miss up to eight weeks with an elbow strain, so the decision to place him on the 60-day disabled list was made so that the Mariners could add another player to the 40-man roster. In a corresponding move, the club picked up the right-handed Evan Marshall off waivers from Arizona.
Apr 4 2017Smyly (elbow) will be shut down from throwing for six weeks, Ryan Divish of the Seattle Times reports.The initial estimate for Smyly's recovery was six-to-eight weeks, but that timetable has to be pushed back in light of this news. Chances are, Smyly will need at least a month to ramp up once he's cleared to resume a throwing program sometime in mid May. The lefty recently saw two more specialists who confirmed the diagnosis of a flexor strain. He was moved to the 60-day DL on Tuesday.
Mar 31 2017Smyly (arm) will open the season on the disabled list with an elbow strain and is expected to miss 6-8 weeks, Bob Dutton of The Tacoma News Tribune reports.Although it isn't anticipated that he'll need surgery, Smyly will seek a second opinion, as elbow injuries are certainly nothing to take lightly for pitchers. The southpaw was scratched from his last scheduled start of the spring with arm soreness that turned out to be a flexor bundle strain in his throwing elbow. GM Jerry Dipoto hinted that the WBC may have been to blame for the injury, where Smyly threw 4.2 innings in a win over Venezuela. Barring any further setbacks, it would appear the earliest he could return to the rotation would be mid-May as left-hander Ariel Miranda takes his spot in the rotation.
Mar 31 2017Smyly (elbow) was placed on the 10-day DL on Friday, Ryan Divish of the Seattle Times reports.After being scratched from his scheduled start Friday, Smyly was examined and diagnosed with a left elbow strain. He is expected to miss six-to-eight weeks. Ariel Miranda will get the first crack at replacing Smyly in the rotation, with his first start coming April 6 at Houston.
Mar 29 2017Smyly has been scratched from his scheduled start Friday with arm soreness, Bob Dutton of The Tacoma News Tribune reports.Manager Scott Servais says he's not sure what the extent of the soreness is, but it seemed enough to warrant extra rest for the southpaw. All signs indicate the scratch is precautionary and that Smyly will be ready for his season debut next Thursday against the Astros, but he'll likely be re-evaluated over the next week.
Mar 28 2017Smyly will pitch in the series finale of the season-opening four-game set against the Astros as per manager Scott Servais, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.The southpaw will follow Felix Hernandez, Hisashi Iwakuma and James Paxton in that series, and he'll tune up for his debut by starting and pitching two innings in Friday's Cactus League tilt against the Rockies. Smyly will look to head into the regular season with some momentum after giving up five earned runs on six hits and four walks over four innings against the Reds last Sunday.
Mar 27 2017Smyly gave up five earned runs on six hits and four walks over four innings in Sunday's 7-6 Cactus League win over the Reds. He also recorded a strikeout.After pitching against the Padres in a "B" game on Tuesday, Smyly took the mound in his first official post-WBC start and struggled against a Reds lineup that featured several regulars. The veteran lefty was touched up for three home runs by Jose Peraza, Desmond Jennings and notably, Reds starter Rookie Davis, with the latter two launching their round-trippers in the second inning. Smyly blamed inconsistent location, particularly with his fastball, for the majority of his troubles. Factoring in Sunday's outing, he owns a 5.00 ERA, 1.44 WHIP and 6:6 K:BB over nine spring innings.
Mar 17 2017Smyly said he wasn't taken by surprise that he showed increase velocity in his World Baseball Classic start because he had extra rest between starts, was running on adrenaline and credited his offseason work, Shannon Drayer of MyNorthwest.com reports.The left-hander is set to throw on Tuesday in the Mariners' spring training game. Unfortunately, Smyly will struggle to find similar breaks between outings in the regular season that he's enjoyed this spring. However, perhaps Seattle will make some effort to manage his workload, considering his past health woes. Even with that concern, the 27-year-old remains an attractive fantasy pitcher residing in the middle or late rounds of mixed fantasy leagues.
Mar 16 2017Manager Scott Servais expects Smyly to rejoin Mariners camp after his Wednesday start for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, Ryan Divish of The Seattle Times reports.The initial schedule was a one-and-done appearance in the Classic. Smyly dominated Team Venezuela, striking out eight batters without a walk, throwing 44 strikes in 61 pitches and allowing only an unearned run. The southpaw struck out the final six batters he faced to continue a dazzling March run: He's allowed only one run in 9.2 spring training innings. Following a dismal 2017 in which the veteran absorbed a 4.88 ERA, Smyly ranks as an alluring rebound candidate in fantasy games.
Mar 15 2017Smyly gave up one run (unearned) in 4.2 innings of work Wednesday, allowing three hits while striking out eight in Team USA's 4-2 victory over Team Venezuela.On top of his eight strikeouts, Smyly didn't walk a batter and threw 44 of his 61 total pitches for strikes. He's looked great all spring now, as the southpaw has only conceded one run in 9.2 innings so far. The 27-year-old will look to carry his form into the season, where he'll look to rebound from a tough 2016 that saw him produce a disappointing 4.88 ERA in 175.1 innings.
Mar 15 2017Smyly will start Team USA's game against Venezuela on Wednesday to begin its second round of pool play at the WBC.This will be Smyly's first appearance of the WBC, and he will look to get Team USA off to a strong start in round two against a star-studded Team Venezuela lineup. The 27-year-old will head back to Mariners camp after the start, where he has put together five scoreless innings to start spring.
Mar 7 2017Smyly (1-0) notched three strikeouts over three scoreless innings in Monday's 9-0 Cactus League loss to the Rangers while surrendering just a hit and a walk.Donning a Mariners uniform has agreed with Smyly so far, as he's now surrendered just Monday's hit and a pair of walks overall in his five innings on the mound. The Rangers rolled out a lineup that included Delino DeShields, Jr., Adrian Beltre and Joey Gallo on Monday, so Smyly's strong effort wasn't exactly a layup. Having excelled over his first two outings, the 27-year-old southpaw now heads to Miami on Thursday to join Team USA for the World Baseball Classic in his capacity as designated pitcher, where he'll make one start at the most before returning to Mariners camp. In the interim, he leaves manager Scott Servais with a very positive early impression. "Drew was really, really sharp today. It was great to see. He got all of his pitches working, threw some good changeups. He had a really good curveball today. He had a lot of strikeouts with that pitch. He's been sharp both times out there."
Mar 2 2017Smyly fired two scoreless innings in Wednesday's 7-4 Cactus League victory over the Indians, surrendering only one walk and notching a pair of strikeouts.The offseason acquisition from the Rays impressed his first time out, looked sharp throughout, firing 31 pitches overall. It was naturally an encouraging start for Smyly, who racked up a career-high 12 losses and 4.88 ERA in Tampa in 2016. The Mariners have high hopes for Smyly recapturing his previous form as one of two southpaws (along with James Paxton) in the projected 2017 starting rotation. "He was very crisp," manager Scott Servais said. "He went right after them, good breaking ball. It was nice to see. First time out in a Mariners uniform, he looked very comfortable."
Feb 3 2017Smyly, who is penciled in as the Mariners' fourth starter, is looking to put an inconsistent 2016 season behind him, Greg Johns of MLB.com reports.The 27-year-old southpaw's Jekyll-and-Hyde 2016 campaign makes his 2017 prospects somewhat uncertain heading into the spring, but the Mariners will be counting on getting the version of Smyly that has shown flashes of brilliance in the past. Smyly's second and final full season in a Rays uniform was a tale of two halves, with the lefty tallying only a pair of victories against 10 losses and a 5.47 ERA prior to the All-Star break, and a 5-2 record and 4.08 ERA after the Midsummer Classic. He amassed a career-high 12 losses and 4.88 ERA while also giving up a whopping 32 homers, easily a career-worst figure. However, the Mariners saw enough potential in Smyly's past body of work, including the positive stretches of his 2016 campaign, to make the move to acquire him, with general manager Jerry Dipoto noting that the team's "greatly improved outfield defense" and the lefty's profile as fly-ball pitcher with above-average control makes him a potentially ideal fit. With respect to last season's issues, Smyly identified problems with his trademark curve as the primary culprit for his struggles, an issue that he doesn't plan on allowing to resurface on his new club. "I have to mix speeds," he said. "I'm constantly trying to get the hitter guessing. I know I can throw strikes. I know I'm not going to walk guys. But it's just commanding the ball inside the strike zone, throwing quality strikes and changing speeds and keeping the hitter off-balance, that's the biggest key to pitching."
Jan 13 2017Smyly agreed to a one-year deal with the Mariners on Friday, avoiding arbitration, MLB.com's Greg Johns reports.He was just traded from Tampa Bay to Seattle, in large part because the Rays did not want to pay him in arbitration. This was Smyly's second year as an arbitration-eligible player. The terms of the agreement were not announced. He should improve, at least slightly, on his numbers from last season with the Rays, and should receive more run support while spending less time in the harsh pitching conditions of the AL East.
Jan 11 2017Smyly was traded to the Mariners on Wednesday in exchange for a three-player package headlined by Mallex Smith.The Rays had been looking to trade Smyly in order to avoid paying him in arbitration, and they found a partner in the Mariners. Tampa Bay received Smith, Carlos Vargas and Ryan Yarbrough in the return package. Smyly goes from one pitcher's park to another, but will receive more run support with the Mariners and will not have to deal with the harsh pitching conditions of the other parks in the AL East as frequently. He posted a 4.88 ERA (4.49 FIP), 1.27 WHIP and 167:49 K:BB in 175.1 innings last year. The home run ball really did him in, as has been the case his whole career, but his 1.64 HR/9 last season represented a career worst. Smyly is a good bet to rebound somewhat, likely pitching as a No. 4 starter for the Mariners.
Oct 10 2016Smyly is a candidate to be moved this offseason from a Rays team looking to cut salary, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The 27-year-old left-hander struggled through the majority of the campaign, amassing a career-high 12 losses and 4.88 ERA in the process. Smyly's 1.27 WHIP was also his highest in a full season, while the 32 homers he surrendered were nearly double his previous high of 18, which came in his Rays and Tigers tenures in 2014. His first half was particularly poor, with the lefty tallying only a pair of victories against 10 losses, along with a 5.47 ERA. Although he rebounded in the second half to forge a 5-2 record and generate a more respectable 4.08 ERA, the approximate $7 million he stands to be awarded in arbitration would likely prove too costly for a team looking to shore up the bullpen with some proven arms this offseason.
Oct 10 2016Smyly is a candidate to be moved this offseason from a Rays team looking to cut salary, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The 27-year-old left-hander struggled through the majority of the campaign, amassing a career-high 12 losses and 4.88 ERA in the process. Smyly's 1.27 WHIP was also his highest in a full season, while the 32 homers he surrendered were nearly double his previous high of 18, which came in his Rays/Tigers tenures in 2014. His first half was particularly poor, with the lefty tallying only a pair of victories against 10 losses, along with a 5.47 ERA. Although he rebounded in the second half to forge a 5-2 record and generate a more respectable 4.08 ERA, the approximate $7 million he stands to be awarded in arbitration would likely prove too costly for a team looking to shore up the bullpen with some proven arms this offseason.
Sep 28 2016Smyly will not start Sunday against the Rangers.Chase Whitley will get the nod instead in the season finale. That means Smyly is presumably done for the year, unless the team decides to throw him out there for his first relief appearance of the season this weekend. The 27-year-old Smyly has labored through his most recent outings, having exceeded his innings total from 2015 by more than 100 frames.
Sep 26 2016Smyly (7-12) allowed three runs on seven hits and a walk with five strikeouts over five innings in the loss Monday against the White Sox.Smyly has completed six innings just once in his past five starts and has allowed 30 hits in just 25.1 innings and a 5.33 ERA in that span. Although he didn't allow a home run for the first time in that stretch on Monday, he did give up two doubles, both of which would eventually come around to score. Smyly's 4.88 season ERA can largely be pinned on his susceptibility to the extra-base hit, as he has given up 32 homers in just 30 starts this season.
Sep 20 2016Smyly pitched six innings, allowing one run on four hits and two walks while striking out three Yankees in Tuesday's no-decision.The lefty turned a 2-1 lead over to the bullpen, only to watch Brad Boxberger promptly give up four runs in the seventh, throwing Smyly's fine outing by the wayside. It was certainly a disappointing outcome for the hurler, who has won five straight decisions, especially considering he was only at 87 pitches and could have work his way into the seventh. On the bright side, Tuesday's performance earned Smyly his first quality in his last four outings while lowing the 27-year-old's ERA to 4.86, its lowest mark since Aug. 26. He'll go for his eighth win of the season when he takes the hill for his next start Monday against the White Sox.
Sep 13 2016Smyly (7-11) threw 5.2 innings while allowing two runs on five hits and a walk, earning a win against the Blue Jays on Tuesday. He struck out four.The two runs came on a two-run blast by Toronto catcher Russell Martin in the sixth, which caused Smyly to be removed from the game. It's been somewhat of a disappointing season for Smyly, who entered the day with a 6-11 record and an ERA of 5.05 after never having an ERA above 4.00 his last four seasons. He'll look to keep things rolling against the Orioles on Sunday.
Sep 7 2016Smyly lasted just 3.2 innings Wednesday in a start against the Orioles, allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits and three walks, receiving no decision. He struck out two.Smyly recorded just 11 outs on 88 pitches Wednesday, but was spared the loss as the Rays chased Baltimore starter Dylan Bundy after just 3.2 innings as well, and eventually won the game 7-6. Smyly has disappointed expectations this season, sporting a 5.05 ERA over 28 starts. His 1.28 WHIP suggests some back luck, but he's also given up 30 home runs, good enough for fifth most in the major leagues. He'll try to right the ship on Monday against the Blue Jays.
Aug 31 2016Smyly allowed five runs on seven hits, struck out four and walked two over five innings in a no-decision against the Red Sox on Wednesday.All the runs he allowed came off the two homers he yielded. First, a solo bomb to Xander Bogaerts and then a grand slam to Hanley Ramirez. Smyly worked his way through five, but by that time, he had lost the lead. Fortunately, Tampa Bay tied the game in the eighth to get Smyly off the hook. He will face another tough matchup in his next start versus the Orioles on Tuesday.
Aug 27 2016Smyly didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 5-4 loss to the Astros but recorded eight strikeouts and gave up three runs (two earned) on three hits and two walks over six innings.The lefty continued his recent stretch of strong pitching, going at least six innings for the seventh straight outing while giving up two earned runs or less for the sixth time over that span. Smyly's eight strikeouts also served as his second-highest total in that category since July 1 and the effort brought nudged his ERA down for the seventh consecutive start. Although his chance at a fourth consecutive victory was lost when closer Alex Colome imploded in the ninth by giving up back-to-back homers, Smyly's season has undeniably taken a 360-degree turn for the better in the second half of the campaign.
Aug 22 2016Smyly (6-11) allowed four runs on five hits, including two home runs, and a walk while striking out seven in 6.2 innings during Sunday's win over the Rangers.It's the eighth time in 24 starts that Smyly has served up multiple homers in a game but this was the first time he managed to win one of those outings, as the Rays' offense gave him plenty of support. He's now won four straight decisions thanks in large part to Tampa scoring 6.8 runs/game for him during that stretch, although his 3.03 ERA and 29:8 K:BB in 32.2 innings over those five games deserve some credit too. He'll next take the mound Friday in Houston, which may not help him get his long ball issue under control.
Aug 15 2016Smyly (5-11) was dominant in a winning effort on Monday, allowing just one run in seven innings. He surrendered just one hit, walked two, and struck out four against the Padres.Smyly allowed a first-inning homer to Alexei Ramirez and then proceeded to hold the Padres hitless for the next six innings. The lefty has had his share of troubles this season, but in his last five starts he has allowed a total of just eight runs. Smyly will try to keep his hot streak in tact when he takes the mound against the Rangers on Sunday.
Aug 9 2016Smyly (4-11) tossed six innings, allowing two runs, six hits and three walks while striking out two in Tuesday's win against the Blue Jays.Through his first 18 starts of the year, Smyly was 2-11 with a 5.64 ERA and six quality efforts. However, the 27-year-old southpaw has turned things around in recent weeks and is looking more like the pitcher most expected him to be. Smyly has now made four straight quality starts, going 2-0 with a 2.52 ERA and 19:6 K:BB over that stretch. He'll have a good chance to keep rolling as he draws the strikeout-prone Padres in his next start Monday.
Aug 4 2016Smyly (3-11) pitched seven quality innings, allowing two runs on five hits and one walk while striking out 10 in Thursday's no-decision against the Royals.After a rough first half of 2016, Smyly appears to be getting back on track post All-Star break. He's now notched three straight quality starts for the first time since April, and his 5.14 ERA -- albeit still not pretty - is down to its lowest mark since June 20. The southpaw has been plagued by a terrible 1.7 HR/9, and his career-high 23rd home run allowed wasted an otherwise outstanding performance on Thursday. Smyly will make his next start Tuesday at the hitter-friendly Rogers Centre in Toronto.
Jul 30 2016Smyly (3-11) gave up two earned runs on four hits and a walk over six innings in Saturday's 6-3 victory over the Yankees. He struck out six.The 27-year-old southpaw, who's struggled through the worst season of his career, now has two straight quality starts and may finally be figuring it out in 2016. Smyly has now given up only three earned runs over the 12 frames spanning that last pair of trips to the mound, and the victory Saturday was his first over his last eight decisions dating back to May 16 against the Blue Jays. He'll look to make it two in a row when he takes on the Royals next Thursday.
Jul 23 2016Smyly tossed six innings of one-run ball Saturday versus Oakland, striking out one and walking one en route to a no-decision.The left-hander allowed a run in the first inning after putting three men on base, but he settled down and cruised for five more frames, needing just 88 total pitches to do so. Smyly broke a brutal streak of four consecutive losses during which he had an inflated ERA of 9.14, and he nearly won his first game in over two months, but Alex Colome imploded in the ninth inning and lost the game. Smyly will have the opportunity to build on Saturday's quality start next Saturday at home against the Yankees.
Jul 20 2016Smyly will remain in the starting rotation despite his continuing struggles, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The 27-year-old southpaw is now sporting an unsightly 2-11 record and 5.64 ERA that ranks as the highest of all pitchers who've thrown at least 90 frames this season. However, despite those numbers and the fact that he's given up at least four earned runs in five consecutive starts, Smyly is not a candidate for demotion at this time according to manager Kevin Cash. "Actually we talked to Drew (Tuesday), checked in, we had a good conversation," Cash said. "Drew is trying to work through this. He knows he's in a funk. At different parts of the season, I think different things have kind of left him, different pitches that he hasn't been able to find. ... We're excited to get his work in and to see him back out there Saturday in Oakland."
Jul 18 2016Smyly (2-11) allowed five runs on nine hits and two walks with three strikeouts over five innings in a loss Monday to the Rockies.Smyly last managed a quality start on June 15. This now marks the sixth time Smyly has allowed twice as many baserunners as innings pitched. His WHIP is up to a career high 1.36, and his 5.64 ERA won't be going down as long as he is allowing baserunners with such consistency.
Jul 6 2016Smyly (2-10) allowed seven runs, four of which were earned, on eight hits and three walks over four innings to take the loss Wednesday against the Angels.After pitching two scoreless innings, Smyly gave up four runs in the third inning, and things continued to go downhill from there, leading to his 10th loss of the year. He's now allowed at least four earned runs in seven of his last eight starts, and his ERA is up to 5.47. His next start will be after the All-Star break.
Jul 1 2016Smyly (2-9) allowed six runs, four of which were earned, on six hits and four walks while striking out eight to take the loss Friday against the Tigers.Smyly held the Tigers in check for three innings before struggling to handle them the second time through the batting order. He's only been able to post one quality start over his last seven starts, and he now has a 5.33 ERA on the season. He'll make his next start Wednesday against the Angels.
Jun 26 2016Smyly (2-8) got tagged for eight runs on 10 hits (including three home runs) and a walk over five innings Sunday in a loss to the Orioles. He struck out six.He's still missing plenty of bats, as Smyly generated 17 swinging strikes among his 90 pitches, but it's what happens when he doesn't miss them that's the problem. He's now surrendered at least one homer in seven straight starts and 19 home runs total in 89.2 innings (15 outings) on the season for a brutal 1.91 HR/9. He'll get no respite in his next start, either, as he'll face the Tigers' array of right-handed sluggers at home Friday.
Jun 20 2016Smyly didn't factor into the decision Monday in Cleveland, as he gave up four runs on eight hits over seven innings while striking out five without a walk.Smyly has an incredible 17 strikeouts and no walks over his last two starts, yet hasn't picked up a win over that span. His 4.78 ERA isn't very impressive, but luck hasn't been on the 27-year-old's side as he has accrued an atrocious 2-7 record thus far. His strikeout potential (9.99 K/9) makes Smyly an interesting option, though his next projected matchup Sunday in Baltimore is far from ideal.
Jun 16 2016Smyly notched a career-high 12 strikeouts but was still saddled with a no-decision Wednesday versus the Mariners. He gave up four hits and a two-run homer to Nelson Cruz over 6.2 innings.The southpaw was brilliant save for one pitch, throwing 67 of 101 pitches for strikes and inducing a whopping 19 swings-and-misses. Considering he'd been blasted for 19 hits and 12 earned runs over his previous two starts, Wednesday's outing was a sight for sore eyes for both the Rays and Smyly's fantasy owners. His whiff total was not only a career high, but also represented his third start this season with double-digit strikeouts. He'll try to stay on the right track next Monday versus Josh Tomlin and the Indians.
Jun 8 2016Smyly will have his next start pushed back as a mental break, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.It doesn't appear as though there are any issues physically, but the Rays will look to give Smyly some time to clear his head after a dreadful stretch dating back to the start of May. He's currently slated to take his next start next Wednesday against the Mariners, with Chris Archer and Matt Moore each having their next scheduled starts moved forward by a day as a result.
Jun 5 2016Smyly allowed four runs on seven hits and three walks across just five innings Sunday versus the Twins. He struck out seven en route to a no-decision.The left-hander allowed three extra-base hits Sunday, but unfortunately they all came in the third inning, when he allowed three runs and elevated his pitch count enough to limit himself to just two more frames. Smyly has fallen on rough times after a strong start to the season, as he has just one win in his last seven starts and has seen his ERA balloon over two full runs to 4.92 during that time. Things don't get any easier for Smyly, as he will face a hot Astros team in his next scheduled start Saturday.
May 21 2016Smyly has been working on his mechanics since his last start, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The report comes via Rays manager Kevin Cash, who added that he expects the extra work his southpaw has been putting in to reflect in the quality of Saturday's performance against the Tigers. The 26-year-old was touched for 10 hits and six earned runs over five frames in his last start versus the Mariners. He also gave up another two homers in that outing, brining his season total to 7 in 49.2 innings pitched.
May 16 2016Smyly (2-4) allowed one run on four hits and four walks with six strikeouts over five innings in a win Monday over Toronto.The Rays gave Smyly 11 runs in the first four innings, giving him an easy path to the win if he could just get through five innings. Smyly was playing with fire with his wildness, and he needed 101 pitches just to get record the 15 outs. Smyly continues to bring the strikeouts and now has 58 in 49.2 innings. Although Smyly was wild, more important is that he got past the dangerous Blue Jays lineup without allowing a home run, particularly considering he had allowed four homers in his past three starts. Smyly still has a rough 1.3 HR/9 on the season, but it's encouraging to see him keep the ball in the yard.
May 11 2016Smyly (1-4) surrendered 10 hits and six earned runs over five innings in Tuesday's 6-4 loss to the Mariners. He struck out five.He managed to miss some bats-- recording 14 swings-and-misses overall-- but Smyly was largely done in by two homers that drove in five of the six runs he gave up overall. Franklin Gutierrez got the scoring started with a 410-foot shot in the first that plated Ketel Marte, and Dae-Ho Lee put a 365-footer into the right-field bleachers in the fourth, driving in Chris Iannetta and Kyle Seager to give the Mariners a 6-2 lead. Smyly has been able to only pitch five innings in each of his last two starts, and has given up a pair of gopher balls in two of his last three trips to the mound as well. The six earned runs were the most he'd given up in a 2016 appearance, and his ERA climbed almost a full run to 3.63 due to his struggles Tuesday. He'll try his luck again Sunday against the A's and Sonny Gray in Tampa.
May 4 2016Smyly allowed two runs on five hits over five innings against the Dodgers on Wednesday, striking out six and walking two while receiving no decision.This wasn't the lefty's most efficient outing, as Smyly threw 93 pitches and was removed after giving up consecutive hits to open the sixth. Even so, he's allowed two or fewer runs in five consecutive starts and owns a spectacular 47:8 K:BB, making Smyly one of the most valuable fantasy starters around in the early going. Although he may be pitching a bit over his head, there's no doubt that Smyly's arrived as an above-average MLB starter. That said, he's never made more than 25 starts in a season, so the biggest question now is how the 26-year-old's health will hold up over the long haul.
Apr 30 2016Smyly (1-3) took the loss Friday despite recording eight strikeouts against the dangerous Blue Jays lineup. He surrendered only two hits, two earned runs and a walk over six innings.The recurring exercise in frustration that has been Smyly's 2016 season to date continued Friday, as he was saddled with his third loss despite a fourth consecutive quality start. After not surrendering a homer in three straight games, it was the long ball, along with a lack of run support, that did in the 26-year-old southpaw Friday. Michael Saunders and Josh Donaldson touched up Smyly for solo shots in the third and sixth inning, respectively, nullifying an effort from Smyly in which he induced an impressive 15 swings-and-misses and threw 63 of 99 pitches for strikes. He'll try to break his string of bad fortune in his next trip to the mound, next Wednesday versus the Dodgers.
Apr 25 2016Smyly (1-2) surrendered six hits, an earned run and a walk over seven innings in Sunday's 8-1 victory over the Yankees. He struck out six.The lefty was finally rewarded with a victory on his third consecutive quality start, thanks to some rare offensive support. Despite the fact that he'd pitched 15 innings of four-hit ball while only allow two earned runs over his previous pair of starts combined, Smyly had walked away with a loss and no-decision in those games. The 26-year-old managed to keep the Yankees frustrated all afternoon, throwing 64 of 93 pitches for strikes and notching first-pitch strikes on 17 of the 28 batters he faced. Smyly has clearly been the most effective of the Rays' top four starters so far this season, his rather lackluster record notwithstanding.
Apr 20 2016Smyly (0-2) threw eight scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and two walks while striking out 11 against the Red Sox on Tuesday. He did not factor in the decision, however, as the game went into extra innings.Smyly was in a pitching duel with Boston's bullpen after starter Joe Kelly left in the first inning with stiffness in his right shoulder. Smyly struck out 11 for the second straight start -- tying his career high -- but, still was unable to capture that elusive first win of 2016. The 26-year-old has always displayed a knack for striking out hitters, but he has yet to stay healthy for an entire season. If Smyly can avoid the DL, he should be a top option in all formats.
Apr 13 2016Smyly (0-2) allowed two runs on three hits during Wednesday's 4-1 loss to the Indians.Cleveland actually put up three runs with Smyly on the mound, but he was only charged with two thanks to a throwing error by Logan Forsythe. It's been a rough start for the lefty, as he's now given up seven total runs through two starts. The Rays could struggle to score runs this season, making things tough on their starting pitchers. Smyly suffered major shoulder issues last season, but did look strong with four wins last September. However, Fantasy owners will want to see better starts from the 26-year-old before fully trusting in him.
Apr 9 2016Smyly will not start as scheduled Saturday with the news that the Rays' matchup with the Orioles has been postponed.Smyly was set to face the Orioles on Saturday, but rain canceled both his start and the game. Smyly will not simply pushed back to Sunday, and is now set to make his next start Wednesday against the Indians.
Apr 4 2016Smyly (0-1) gave up five runs on six hits -- three of them homers -- and a walk over 6.2 innings against the Jays on Monday. He struck out five.After getting off to a strong start, Smyly allowed homers in three consecutive innings. Fortunately, he won't have to face the Blue Jays every time out, but this certainly won't be the last time he sees them, and the rest of the AL East isn't short on offensive talent either. That said, Smyly's demonstrated excellent strikeout upside and should have better starts ahead. His next one will come against the Orioles on Saturday.
Mar 31 2016Smyly (3-1) threw four innings of no-hit ball and surrendered only one walk in Wednesday's 4-3 spring victory over a Red Sox split squad. He struck out seven.The 26-year-old southpaw commemorated his final tune-up for the regular season with his best outing of the exhibition slate, striking out a spring-high seven. Smyly has whiffed 21 hitters in 20 March frames, and finishes spring training with a 3-1 record and 2.70 ERA.
Mar 25 2016Smyly (2-1) surrendered five hits, five earned runs and a walk over six innings in Friday's 6-1 spring loss to the Twins. He struck out four.The 26-year-old was touched up for three homers, two of them coming off the bat of Trevor Plouffe. The Twins slugger blasted a shot over the left-field wall in the second, and came back with a two-run homer that also left the park by way of left field in the sixth inning. Smyly, who's surrendered double-digit homers in three of his past four seasons, has now given up four over 16 spring training innings.
Mar 19 2016Smyly will pitch in an intrasquad game Sunday, Bill Chastain of MLB.com reports.The southpaw has enjoyed a solid spring and will throw on three days rest after going 4.2 innings against the Phillies on Wednesday. The session is part of manager Kevin Cash's plan to keep his pitcher, and the team as a whole, on a regular routine, with their trip to Havana on tap. "We just want to make sure we load up everybody with ABs and innings on the field because we're going to have basically three days now where we're not going to be able to control that as well," Cash said.
Mar 16 2016Smyly yielded three hits, one earned run and a walk over 4.2 innings in Tuesday's 5-2 loss to the Phillies. He also struck out four but did not factor into the decision.The five-year veteran continued his outstanding spring, and currently leads all Rays pitchers with two victories during the exhibition slate. Smyly surrendered his first earned run over three appearances on a third-inning homer to right field by Cedric Hunter, but looked sharp otherwise, throwing 45 of his 66 pitches for strikes. The southpaw is currently slotted third in a Rays rotation spearheaded by ace Chris Archer that has a chance to be dominant should their collective health hold up.
Feb 4 2016Smyly won his arbitration case and will receive a $3.75 million salary in 2016, MLB Network's Jon Heyman reports.Coming off a sterling finish to his injury-shortened 2015 season, Smyly won MLB's first arbitration hearing in 2016. He'll likely slot in as Tampa's third or fourth starter, with durability the biggest question mark.
Oct 1 2015Smyly allowed just one run on three hits and three walks while striking out eight over six innings in a win over the Marlins on Wednesday.A shoulder injury cost Smyly more than half of the season, but he finishes the year having allowed five or fewer hits in five of his six September starts, while posting a 45:13 K:BB over his last 36 innings. He went 5-1 after his mid-August return, and seems destined to be a fantasy darling again next spring given his age (26) and strikeout upside.
Sep 23 2015Smyly (4-2) struck out seven over 6.1 shutout innings against Boston on Wednesday, allowing five hits and three walks in a 6-2 victory.Smyly's bizarrely alternated dominant outings and blowups since returning from the shoulder injury that stole much of his season. In his eight August and September outings, he's given up five runs, then zero, then four, zero, four, zero, five and now another zero. It adds up to a strong 3.26 ERA and a 69:17 K:BB over 60.2 innings, which has Smyly looking like a high-upside option for next year.
Sep 18 2015Smyly allowed five runs on four hits, walking three and striking out six over 5.2 innings of an 8-6 win against the Orioles on Friday night.Smyly (3-2, 3.64 ERA) picked up a win and did notch the six strikeouts, but it was another weak performance where he needed 107 pitches (69 strikes) and didn't make it out of the sixth inning. He pitched well early in the season, but was shut down in early May with a tear in his labrum (shoulder). He hasn't been the same since returning from the DL in mid-August, and is not recommended at this point in the season.
Sep 7 2015Smyly took a no-decision Monday afternoon, allowing four runs in five innings against the Tigers.Smyly has now made five starts since returning from the disabled list last month, and has allowed four or more runs in three of them. His start last week against the Orioles was promising, but may prove to be the exception rather than the rule over the remainder of the season. The lefty's next start will come this weekend against the Red Sox.
Sep 1 2015Smyly tossed seven shutout innings Tuesday against the Orioles, giving up four hits and one walk while striking out 10.Smyly was in cruise control for most of the night, and while Manny Machado should have tagged and scored from third on a pop out in the third inning, there really was not much push back from the Orioles. It is very difficult to evaluate Smyly, as his shoulder situation comes with plenty of risk, but it is also pretty clear that he is a legit No. 2 starter when he is going right. He'll look to keep going right in his next start Monday against his former team in Detroit.
Aug 27 2015Smyly allowed four runs (three earned) on eight hits and a pair of walks in just 4.1 innings against the Twins on Thursday, receiving no decision in an eventual 5-4 win. On the bright side, he struck out five, but this was still a rough outing for Smyly, and it seems that inconsistency is to be expected from the 26-year-old lefty down the stretch in a season that was thought to be over for him back in May. He's next slated to start against the Orioles on Tuesday.
Aug 21 2015Smyly (1-2) lasted 5.2 scoreless innings Saturday in a win over the A's, allowing seven hits and no walks while striking out two.It's not the sharpest outing for Smyly, but it's hard to complain about a shutout. This was his second start after returning from the DL and he looked far better here then his last outing. Smyly has yet to allow more then seven hits in any of his five starts this season and has only given up two-plus runs once all year. He provides nice peripherals and if he can find some strikeout form, he'd become must own in almost all formats. His next start will come on Thursday against the Twins.
Aug 17 2015Smyly (shoulder) had a disappointing return from the DL Sunday, allowing five runs on seven hits in four innings and taking the loss against the Rangers.Smyly wasn't just allowing hits, he was allowing hard hits. Four of his seven hits allowed were for extra bases, including two home runs. The 26-year-old struggled to prevent runs throughout his rehab assignment, never allowing less than two runs in a start and finishing with a 9.00 ERA. The Rays still liked the pitches he was throwing enough to activate him two days before they had to, but Sunday's start could be an indication he's not yet 100 percent.
Aug 15 2015Smyly (shoulder) will be activated from the 60-day DL and start against the Rangers on Sunday, Bill Chastain of MLB.com reports.He's made just three starts all year, his last of which came during the middle of May. One of the major pieces in the deal that landed David Price in Detroit, Smyly has thrown just 64.1 innings with Tampa Bay and only has one season in which he accumulated more than 100 innings in the majors. As long as he stays healthy, Smyly could be a boon to the Rays rotation, but health has been hard to come by so far for the 26-year-old.
Aug 14 2015Smyly (shoulder) will start Sunday's game against the Rangers, Roger Mooney of The Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly missed nearly the entire first month of the season due to injury, and made just three starts after returning before being placed on the disabled list again in mid-May. He was great in his three starts, allowing just five runs over 16.2 innings. He'll finally make his return to the mound Sunday, facing the Rangers.
Aug 12 2015Smyly (shoulder) could return to the Rays and start as soon as Sunday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Due to a large amount of off days, the Rays have several options for a return date for Smyly, the latest being Tuesday. He has continued to struggle in rehab, and that has apparently made the Rays apprehensive about activating him. Between that and the nagging nature of shoulder injuries, it would best to wait and see his first few starts before thinking he's back at 100 percent.
Aug 9 2015Smyly (shoulder) will make his fourth rehab start Tuesday at Triple-A Durham and will have his return date determined after a bullpen session on Thursday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly has struggled in his three rehab starts and is at risk of doing so in his fourth, but the Rays would still likely pull the trigger if they like what they see pitch-wise instead of results-wise. The Rays had an off day last Thursday and will have two more this Monday and Thursday, which means they have not had to fill the demoted Matt Moore's rotation spot and won't have to until next Tuesday. That gives them an extraordinary amount of flexibility in determining when they want Smyly to return.
Aug 7 2015Smyly (shoulder) threw 75 pitches over 4.1 innings in his second rehab start for Triple-A Durham on Thursday, allowing four runs and striking out five, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The numbers were disappointing again for Smyly, who now has allowed 13 earned runs in three starts. As long as he is progressing with his command and velocity to Tampa Bay's liking, it probably doesn't matter, but he's beginning to look like less of a sure thing as his return nears.
Aug 5 2015Smyly (shoulder) will make at least two more rehab starts and would line up for a return by Aug. 18, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly will soon shift to Triple-A Durham for his rehab and face hitters closer to major league level. Neither of Smyly's rehab starts have gone well, but that's not a significant issue as long he's still throwing pitches the way he wants. Still, it would be encouraging to see him to have at least one good start before trusting that he's 100 percent after recovering from a shoulder injury.
Aug 1 2015Smyly (shoulder) struggled again in his second rehab start, allowing five runs in 3.1 innings at High-A Charlotte, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.While it's definitely not ideal that Smyly has allowed more runs than innings so far in his rehab, it won't be a big deal if he can show that his stuff is there by the time his expected return date comes up. He at least struck out four while walking none, so it might not be all bad so far.
Jul 31 2015Smyly (shoulder) will make his second rehab start Friday night for High-A Charlotte and is scheduled for four innings or 60 pitches, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.60 pitches would be a 10-pitch expansion from Smyly's last rehab start, so he's at least making progress. He was roughed up in his last start and could be again, but his results likely don't matter until he reaches the later stages of rehab, and even then it would be more about his velocity and command coming back than the actual box score.
Jul 26 2015Smyly gave up four earned runs over 2.1 innings during Sunday's rehab start for Triple-A Durham, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly's first rehab outing lasted just 51 pitches, so he'll need a few more starts to stretch out his arm. He's targeting a mid-August return, and it probably wouldn't have affected his timeline if he'd pitched better in Sunday's game.
Jul 25 2015Smyly (shoulder) will begin a rehab assignment Sunday at Triple-A Durham, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly was impressive during a simulated game at High-A earlier in the week and he'll now take the next step in the rehab process by pitching with the Rays' Triple-A affiliate. Given that he has been limited to 51 and 41 pitches in his recent rehab sessions, he'll likely need at least a couple of starts at Triple-A to stretch out to a starter's workload.
Jul 22 2015Smyly (shoulder) impressed in a 41-pitch simulated game at High-A Port Charlotte and may advance to a rehab assignment soon, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly said he feels "great" but also threw out a "you've got to take baby steps," meaning his rehab is going smoothly, but there's almost now way he returns before his projected mid-August return. Shoulder injures have an infuriating tendency to nag, so there should definitely caution around his return.
Jul 17 2015Smyly (shoulder) will throw a simulated game Tuesday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly threw live batting practice Thursday, and he'll now progress to a sim game. The left-hander remains on track for a mid-August return, and he could head out on a rehab assignment before the end of the month.
Jul 16 2015Smyly (shoulder) threw a 30 pitches in a live batting practice Thursday at Port Charlotte, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly's live BP went well, according to Topkin, but there's still no change to his return timetable at this point. He's projected to return in mid-August but will likely need to make a few rehab appearances before officially coming off the DL.
Jul 7 2015Smyly (shoulder) threw a 51-pitch bullpen session in a Tampa Bay and threw the final 10 pitches with full effort, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.This is another important step for Smyly, who is still projected to return in mid-August. The Rays need for reinforcements has lessened recently thanks to the return of Matt Moore and the impending return of Jake Odorizzi, but Smyly should expect full usage once he comes back due to the division race.
Jun 26 2015Smyly (shoulder) will throw off a mound Saturday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly had a successful long toss session last weekend and will now throw off a mound for the first time since suffering a torn labrum in May. Since the tear was minor and did not require surgery, Smyly has been rehabbing and may be able to return in late July or early August if he continues to progress without any setbacks.
Jun 23 2015Smyly (shoulder) threw long toss at 105 feet Monday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.He was throwing at 75 feet last week, so it's at least clear he's making gradual progression. He's still not coming back until at least mid-August, but each step in his recovery is important considering he's going the more risky route of rehabbing the labrum instead of surgery.
Jun 15 2015Smyly (shoulder) made 30 throws at 75 feet on Monday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.After playing catch Saturday for the first time since being placed on the disabled list, he did it again after just one day off. He's also scheduled to play catch again Wednesday. While he's still a ways away from a return, getting on a regular throwing schedule is a positive sign for his recovery that thus far has avoided season-ending surgery.
Jun 14 2015Smyly (shoulder) played catch Saturday for the first time since landing on the DL, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.It initially appeared that Smyly would be ticketed for season-ending shoulder surgery when he was diagnosed with a labrum tear in his left shoulder in early May, but after receiving further consultation, the 26-year-old decided to take the rest-and-recovery route. He indicated he "felt great" after making about 20 throws during the catch session, but he still remains far off from a potential return. The Rays aren't expecting him back until sometime in August, at the earliest.
Jun 11 2015Smyly (shoulder) will begin sock tosses Thursday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly continues to rehab a minor tear in his labrum, and this is the first step toward throwing an actual baseball. There's a chance Smyly could return later this season, but he may have to sit out the rest of the year with the goal of being ready for Opening Day in 2016.
May 21 2015Smyly is only dealing with a minor tear in his labrum, which could need only eight weeks to rehab, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly was initially expected to need season-ending surgery, but it appears the injury is less serious than originally expected. Both he and the team's doctors are confident that Smyly can pitch through the injury if need be, so it appears he'll choose to go through the rest and rehab route rather than undergo surgery.
May 19 2015The Rays are optimistic that Smyly (shoulder) could return this season, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly was diagnosed with a torn labrum, but the club is hopeful that by just resting and rehabbing it, he'll be able to return this season without having to elect for surgery. It remains to be seen how likely this scenario is, but the lefty will be out until August or September either way.
May 13 2015Smyly was transferred to the 60-day disabled list Wednesday with a torn labrum, Roger Mooney of The Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly will seek a second opinion, but the team has confirmed he indeed has a torn labrum. Regardless of if surgery is required or not, the injury will hold him out of the lineup for an extended period of time. The Rays will continue digging in the barrel for starting pitching with three of their top arms injured, keeping the combination of Alex Colome, Nate Karns and Matt Andriese in the starting rotation.
May 10 2015Smyly (shoulder) will undergo a second MRI on Sunday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly is hoping another opinion of his shoulder injury will yield better results, as the first diagnosis revealed a torn labrum, which would require surgery that would end his season. If the second evaluation confirms the earlier one, Smyly would become the third Rays pitcher to succumb to a season-ending injury, after Alex Cobb and Burch Smith required Tommy John surgery.
May 9 2015Smyly has a tear in his labrum and will likely need season-ending shoulder surgery, the Tampa Bay Times' Marc Topkin reports.The 25-year-old southpaw was recently placed on the 15-day DL after experiencing shoulder stiffness after Tuesday's start. The Rays and Smyly could opt to try to rehab the injury first, but according to Topkin's report, surgery is likely, meaning Smyly would miss at least the rest of this season. The Rays have already lost Alex Cobb and Burch Smith for the season, and have been without Matt Moore (expected back sometime in July) all season. Erasmo Ramirez is the likely in-house replacement, but his risk outweighs his upside in fantasy. Smyly's injury all but assures that Alex Colome and perhaps even Nate Karns will be able to stick in the Rays' rotation all season.
May 8 2015Smyly was placed on the 15-day disabled list Friday, retroactive to May 6, with left shoulder soreness.Smyly was sharp over six innings in his last start Tuesday, but it appears he aggravated the shoulder injury that delayed the start of his season. It remains to be seen how long he will be sidelined, but this certainly does not help the Rays' cause with Alex Cobb (elbow) out for the season and Jake Odorizzi (flu) unable to make he scheduled start Saturday.
May 5 2015Smyly was the tough-luck loser Tuesday, giving up one earned run on two hits and two walks with six strikeouts in six innings in Boston.Smyly had a no-hitter going in the sixth inning before Mookie Betts hit his first of two homers Tuesday. It has been an excellent start to the year for Smyly, who has a 2.70 ERA, 0.78 WHIP and 21 strikeouts through 16.2 innings (three starts). While he has yet to go more than six innings or reach 95 pitches in a start, Smyly is starting to assert himself as a legitimate No. 2 starter in the big leagues.
Apr 29 2015Smyly struck out 10 batters while giving up two runs -- both via solo homer -- on four hits and a walk in six innings Wednesday against the Yankees.He didn't get a decision in the eventual 13-inning win, but Smyly looked awful sharp, totally dominating the Yankees outside of two mistakes -- Chase Headley's homer in the fifth and Chris Young's in the sixth. He's now struck out 15 batters while walking just one over 10.2 innings since returning to the mound after a season-opening DL stint due to shoulder tendinitis.
Apr 24 2015Smyly allowed two runs on four hits, he did not walk a batter, and struck out five over 4.2 innings of the Rays 12-2 win over Toronto Friday night.He came off the disabled list to make his first 2015 start and he pitched reasonably well. Smyly retired the first 10 hitters he faced, but on an 80 pitch pitch count, he left before he had logged the five innings required to qualify for a win. He'll build his arm strength, and should be a nice addition to fantasy rotations.
Apr 24 2015Smyly (shoulder) was activated from the disabled list Friday.Smyly will make his first start of the season Friday against the Blue Jays, and he may get to face a version of the lineup without Jose Bautista (shoulder). The lefty only threw 38 pitches in his final rehab outing with Double-A Jacksonville, so he'll likely be on a pitch count Friday night.
Apr 22 2015Smyly (shoulder) will start Friday's game against the Blue Jays, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly had previously reported that he expected to be ready to go by Friday, but the Rays have now confirmed that the lefty will be activated off the DL in time to make the start. It wouldn't be a surprise if Smyly is working on a pitch count in his first start back, but he should be good to go with no further restrictions after Friday.
Apr 21 2015Smyly (shoulder) said Tuesday that he will definitely be ready to return for Friday's game against the Blue Jays, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay TImes reports.The Rays have yet to make the same commitment, but things certainly seem to be heading in this direction. It would be surprising if the team decides to have Smyly make another rehab start.
Apr 21 2015The Rays will decide Tuesday if Smyly (shoulder) will make another rehab start, or rejoin the big league rotation Friday against Toronto, the Tampa Tribune reports.In his most recent rehab start Sunday, Smyly tossed 68 pitches (40 strikes) over 3.2 scoreless innings, limiting Double-A Jacksonville to one hit. If he returns to the rotation Friday, it's reasonable to think that Smyly may be on a somewhat limited pitch count (80-85), but further details should surface regarding the Rays' plans for him in the near future.
Apr 19 2015Smyly (shoulder) is expected to throw around 70 pitches during his rehab outing with Double-A Montgomery on Sunday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.It will mark the third rehab start for Smyly, who is working his way back from a bout of left shoulder tendinitis that resulted in him being placed on the DL to open the season. The Rays are optimistic that if Smyly makes it through Sunday's outing without indicent, the lefty would be ready to make his season debut for the big club Friday against the Blue Jays.
Apr 14 2015Smyly (shoulder) struck out four and did not walk a batter while allowing just one hit over three innings in his rehab start at High-A Port Charlotte on Tuesday morning, according to Josh Vitale of the Charlotte Sun.He threw 40 pitches in the outing (28 strikes) and was expected to throw a few additional pitches in the bullpen afterward. Tuesday's outing is a big step in the right direction for Smyly, who is targeting an April 29 return to the Tampa Bay rotation if he progresses without a setback.
Apr 12 2015Smyly (shoulder) may return from the disabled list to face the Yankees on April 29, MLB.com reports.Rays manager Kevin Cash said the team probably won't bring Smyly back until the lefty is stretched out for 100-plus pitches. The other option would be to bring him back a bit sooner on a limited pitch count, but even the slower route gives Smyly a shot to return by the end of April. The 25-year-old southpaw is scheduled to make his second rehab appearance with Triple-A Charlotte on Tuesday.
Apr 6 2015Smyly (shoulder) will make his first rehab start at Triple-A Charlotte on Thursday, Roger Mooney of The Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly will continue to build arm strength and stretch out as he inches closer to his regular season debut, pitching two innings Thursday. Assuming all goes as planned, he should miss one or two starts at most before rejoining the rotation.
Apr 5 2015Smyly (shoulder) was placed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly has been dealing with shoulder tendinitis since early March, but after completing a live batting practice session Saturday, he may soon be ready for a rehab start. He'll likely miss only one or two turns through the rotation.
Apr 4 2015Smyly (shoulder) completed a live batting practice session Saturday and said it went well, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.With a pair of live sessions now under his belt, Smyly thinks the next step could be his first rehab start. The team has yet to confirm a course of action. A bout of shoulder tendinitis forced the lefty to shut it down in early March, but he's further ahead than the Rays' other ailing starters (Alex Cobb and Alex Colome) and appears on track to miss just a turn or two through the rotation.
Apr 2 2015Smyly (shoulder) will throw another bullpen session Saturday, the Tampa Bay Times reports.He reportedly felt good after his session Wednesday, starting at approximately 80 percent effort and progressing upward from there. Smyly remains on track for a mid-April return, but he may need a rehab start (or two) before the Rays activate him from the disabled list.
Apr 1 2015Smyly (shoulder) indicated he felt good following a live 30-pitch bullpen session Wednesday.Smyly continues to progress, getting through a live batting practice session without issue. He remains on track to skip just one start at this point, which would slot him in to a mid-April return.
Mar 30 2015Smyly (shoulder) came through Sunday's bullpen session well and he's scheduled for live batting practice Wednesday and Sunday, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.If Smyly progresses through the live batting practice sessions without issue, he'll move on to rehab games. A return in the second half of April is a possibility, assuming that everything follows the Rays' current schedule for the left-hander.
Mar 28 2015Smyly (shoulder) is scheduled to throw another bullpen session Sunday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly will get back onto the mound Sunday for his second bullpen of the week, and if all goes well, manager Kevin Cash said the lefty should throw to live hitters during his next session. It's uncertain whether Smyly will pitch in a Grapefruit League game, but it seems at least possible in light of his progress. Cash said earlier this month that he thought Smyly would miss just one turn through the rotation to begin the season.
Mar 23 2015Smyly (shoulder) threw a 30-pitch bullpen session Monday and said he felt good, Roger Mooney of The Tampa Tribune reports.Smyly's shoulder tendinitis is expected to sideline him for his first scheduled turn in the rotation, but his progress is promising. While he'll still likely miss that first start, it seems plausible it will be the only one he'll skip. The next step would be pitching in a game, but no timetable for that has been indicated at this point.
Mar 19 2015Smyly (shoulder) is scheduled to throw off a mound Saturday, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.A bout of shoulder tendinitis sent Smyly to the shelf earlier this month, but he's extended his long toss to 100 feet without issue and now appears set to resume mound work in the days ahead. The Rays have effectively ruled Smyly out for his first start of the year, but manager Kevin Cash has said that he thinks the lefty will only be skipped once.
Mar 15 2015Smyly (shoulder) is likely to miss his first start of the regular season, Roger Mooney of the Tampa Tribune reports.Manager Kevin Cash has made it known that Smyly will probably miss his first turn in the Tampa Bay rotation, but believes the young lefty might only be out for one start.
Mar 10 2015Smyly progressed to throwing drills Tuesday, the Tampa Bay Times reports.Smyly performed a drill where he threw a ball in a sock as he continues to work back from tendinitis in his throwing shoulder. He's without a firm return date at this point, and his status for Opening Day could be in jeopardy.
Mar 8 2015Smyly has "a little bit of shoulder tendinitis" and his return date is uncertain, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.Even "a little bit" of a shoulder problem is enough to throw what could have been a breakout season for Smyly into doubt. The 25-year-old's return date will be key, but if he doesn't start throwing again within the next couple weeks, don't expect him to be ready for Opening Day.
Mar 8 2015Smyly (shoulder) hopes to play catch in the next few days, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.After a finger injury delayed his typical preseason preparation, Smyly seems to believe that the cause of his recent shoulder tendinitis is a result of trying to "ramp up" his throwing routine. However, any extended absence from the mound during the spring could certainly cause the young lefty to miss the start of the regular season.
Jan 16 2015Smyly agreed to a one-year, $2.65 million contract with the Rays on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times reports.The $2.65 million salary represents a significant raise for Smyly, who's in his first year of arbitration, but the number may very well also prove a tremendous bargain for Tampa Bay. Smyly was dominant after coming over from Detroit in the David Price trade, posting a 1.70 ERA, 0.75 WHIP and 44:11 K:BB in 47.2 innings. He was capped at 153 total innings last season after tossing just 76 frames in 2013.
Sep 9 2014Smyly will be shut down for the remainder of the season, the Tampa Tribune's R. Mooney reports.This shouldn't come as a big surprise, as he has logged 153 innings this season, and the Rays had previously stated that he would be limited to 150-160 innings. He'll enter 2014 with a firm hold on a spot in the Rays' starting rotation, after posting a 3.24 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP between Detroit and Tampa Bay this season. He also posted an impressive 133:42 K:BB ratio in his 153 innings, so while he may never have above average strikeout potential, he won't be a non-factor in the category, and should have no problem maintaining a strong WHIP. The Rays have yet to announce who will replace him in the starting rotation for the remainder of the 2014 season.
Sep 6 2014Smyly is nearing his season innings limit, the Tampa Tribune reports.Manager Joe Maddon said the Rays will cap Smyly at around 150-160 innings this season, and considering he's already at 147 for the year, it seems Saturday's start against Kevin Gausman and the Orioles could very well be his last. Last season, Smyly maxed out at 76 innings while working out of the bullpen for Detroit, but the lefty said his arm feels fine, despite nearly doubling his workload. He's 3-1 with a 1.73 ERA in six starts since joining Tampa Bay.
Sep 6 2014Smyly struck out eight and walked two while giving up one run on four hits over six innings against the Orioles on Saturday.Smyly didn't factor in the decision Saturday but delivered another excellent start for the Rays. There are now questions regarding the team's plans for him the rest of the way, as Saturday's start could be his last as he's now logged 153 innings, and the Rays are planning on limiting him to the 150-160 range.
Sep 1 2014Smyly took a no-decision Monday, allowing two runs in 5.1 innings against the Red Sox.Even though he lasted just 5.1 innings, Smyly still held the Red Sox to just three hits and fanned seven in the start. The lefty has been masterful since being acquired in the David Price trade, and will look to continue his success this weekend against the Orioles.
Aug 27 2014Smyly struck out six and walked one while giving up one run on two hits over seven innings Wednesday to earn his ninth win of the season.He was efficient again Wednesday, needing just 87 pitches (58 strikes) to record 21 outs. With the strong showing Wednesday, he's carrying a 63:14 K:BB over his last 69.1 innings along with a 2.60 ERA during that span (11 starts). Smyly will have home starts against the Red Sox and Orioles next week.
Aug 22 2014Smyly was masterful in tossing a complete game two-hit shutout against the Blue Jays on Friday night. He did not walk a batter and struck out four.Smyly (8-10, 3.42 ERA) needed just 105 pitches (75 for strikes) to complete the gem. Acquired from the Tigers as part of the David Price deal, he may not make fans forget him, but he did a pretty solid impression of the standout southpaw in this one. He'll take on the division-leading Orioles in Camden Yards next time out.
Aug 11 2014Smyly earned his first win as a Ray Monday, going seven shutout innings against the Rangers.The lefty struck out nine and allowed just three hits in the outing. Smyly now has allowed three runs in his first 13 innings as a Ray, striking out 15 but walking five. Smyly will look for his eighth win of the season this weekend when he faces the Yankees.
Jul 31 2014The Tigers traded Smyly to the Rays on Thursday as part of a three-team deal with the Mariners, Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reports.Detroit made a splash minutes prior to the deadline, acquiring David Price from the Rays. Smyly will join Tampa along with Nick Franklin, with Austin Jackson headed to Seattle. The left-handed Smyly has posted a 3.93 ERA and 1.35 WHIP in 21 appearances (18 starts) this season, but he's still just 25 and isn't eligible for arbitration until after the 2015 season.
Jul 25 2014Smyly pitched 5.2 strong innings on Friday facing the Angels as he struck out 11 hitters and only gave up four hits while lowering his ERA to 3.77 on the season.The Angels hitters didn't get to Smyly until the sixth inning as he took the loss to go to 6-9 on the year. Smyly was on fire early on, striking out eight of the first 10 Angels' hitters he faced. Smyly, the tough-luck losing pitcher, next takes the mound on Thursday against the White Sox.
Jul 20 2014Smyly delivered a gem Sunday for the Tigers to help the team avoid a sweep at the hands of the division rival Indians. He struck out six batters and walked two in 7.0 innings. His lone mistake was serving up a solo shot to Yan Gomes in the seventh.Smyly improved to 6-8 on the season following Sunday's victory. This was his first quality start since June 24 against the Rangers. He showed great command, throwing 19 first-pitch strikes. Smyly's strikeout rate has regressed this season with him in a nearly-full-time rotation role, but he has maintained a very respectable 3.80 ERA in his 16 starts.
Jul 10 2014Smyly allowed four runs and eight hits in 6.2 innings at Kansas City on Thursday to earn his fifth win of the season. He struck out just two batters.Smyly had struggled in his previous two starts, so he rebounded to a certain degree Thursday, although he didn't have a lot of pressure given that Detroit led 14-2 after five innings. The 25-year old lefty been fairly mediocre in general thus far this season, but he's got some nice upside as Detroit's fifth starter.
Jul 4 2014Smyly (illness) will start Friday's game for the Tigers.He dealt with an illness in his last outing, going just 2.1 innings against the Astros, but he is healthy enough to take the mound again Friday against the Rays.
Jul 4 2014Smyly labored through 5.1 innings Friday night, allowing five earned runs on seven hits and a walk while striking out three in a 6-3 loss to the Rays.Smyly was on a nice four-start run for the Tigers from June 6-24, but the 25-year-old southpaw's work over his last two outings has left much to be desired. Smyly has been knocked around for nine earned runs on 13 hits and three walks across his last 8.2 innings, and will be in search of a rebound performance Thursday versus the Royals.
Jun 29 2014Smyly, who gave up four runs over 2.1 innings in Sunday's start against Houston, is dealing with an upper respiratory infection, MLive's James Schmehl reports.Smyly was able to take the hill, but manager Brad Ausmus acknowledged that the southpaw was likely affected by the illness. While his status is worth keeping an eye on, Smyly will likely be able to make his next scheduled start Friday against the Rays.
Jun 24 2014Smyly was excellent Tuesday, giving up one unearned run on five hits and a walk in six innings with five strikeouts in Texas.Smyly has seen his strikeout rate dip to a career-low 20.3 percent this year, but that's to be expected when moving from the bullpen to the starting rotation. His FIP and xFIP were both above 4.00 coming into play Tuesday, so his 3.19 ERA may not be the best barometer of what he'll do over the rest of the season, but so far he's been a pretty useful starter in the middle of fantasy rotations. He'll make his next start Sunday in Houston.
Jun 18 2014Smyly (3-6) gave up seven hits and two earned runs with six strikeouts over seven innings Wednesday against the Royals.Smyly has just one win in June, despite allowing only four earned runs over 19 innings in three quality starts this month. He has a 3.48 ERA on the year, but a 4.35 FIP and career-high 82.2 percent strand rate suggest the ERA may be just a bit understated. Nonetheless, one can't argue with his production of late, and he's an intriguing play next week with two scheduled starts against the Rangers and Astros.
Jun 13 2014Smyly allowed one run on four hits, walking three and striking out two over six innings of a 2-0 loss to the Twins on Friday night.He used 100 pitches (63 strikes) to get the six innings so it wasn't the most efficient outing. However, it was his second solid performance in a row after struggling during the latter part of May. He's now 3-5 with a 3.58 ERA and will look to maintain his effectiveness next time out in a start at home against Kansas City.
Jun 11 2014Smyly will next take the mound Friday against the Twins, the Detroit Free Press reports.Smyly was originally scheduled to pitch Wednesday, but Tuesday's postponement forced his next start to be pushed back to Friday's series opener against the Twins. After a couple of rough outings to finish the month of May, Smyly will look to build off of his solid showing in a win over the Red Sox last week. The 25-year-old lefty is 3-4 with a 3.81 ERA and 49:20 K:BB ratio in 54.1 innings.
Jun 10 2014Smyly's start Wednesday will be skipped, and he will instead take the mound Sunday against the Twins, MLive's James Schmehl reports.Tuesday's game was postponed, and won't get made up during this series, so Justin Verlander's start was pushed back to Wednesday. Make sure Smyly is in your lineup Sunday, meaning he will no longer be a two-start pitcher next week.
Jun 6 2014Smyly allowed two runs (one earned) on five hits, walking one and striking out four over six innings of a 6-2 against Boston on Friday night.Smyly (3-4) had been struggling so this solid performance was a breath of fresh air. The improvement could be directly tied to throwing strikes - he threw 71 of 101 pitches over the plate in this one - and he will try to continue that trend in his next start on the road against the White Sox.
May 31 2014Smyly (2-4) took the loss Saturday, tossing 105 pitches in just four innings and allowing three earned runs on seven hits to the Mariners.It's been almost a month (May 3) since the floundering Smyly picked up his last W, and he's allowed 13 walks and 32 hits for an atrocious WHIP of 1.73 during that span. At this point, if he can't find a way to improve his command, it wouldn't be all that surprising to see him relegated back to a relief role.
May 26 2014Smyly lost Monday against the Athletics as he pitched five innings and allowed six runs, eight hits and two walks to go along with three strikeouts.Smyly has allowed at least three runs in three of his last four starts and has seen his ERA increase from 2.45 to 3.86 over that span. He does have 40 strikeouts in 44.1 innings this season, but will need to start stringing together some better starts to remain a viable starting option.
May 13 2014Smyly was solid Tuesday, surrendering just one earned run on five hits while picking up seven K's over six innings in a no-decision against the Orioles.His lone black mark in the game was the first-inning tater he served up to Adam Jones, but he eventually got off the hook in the ninth when the Tigers' bats went off for four runs off Orioles closer Tommy Hunter. Smyly now owns a 2.70 ERA to go along with his 1.11 WHIP and 30 K's in 33.1 innings spread across five starts this season. He'll take the mound again Monday in the series opener against Cleveland.
May 8 2014Smyly (2-2) took the loss Thursday against Houston after allowing three runs on five hits in 5.1 innings. He walked three and struck out two.Typically an accomplished misser of bats, Smyly just didn't have his best stuff for this one -- certainly a disappointing outcome for fantasy owners, coming as it did against the poor Houston offense. However, Smyly is still a talented pitcher who owns very good rate stats. He'll look to bounce back next week in Baltimore.
Apr 26 2014With Anibal Sanchez (finger) being placed on the disabled list Saturday, Smyly may make a start during the upcoming week, MLive.com's Chris Iott reports.The Tigers were planning to skip Smyly, but the lefty now seems like a good bet to make one start. It's unclear when that start might come, as the Tigers may need to do some serious shuffling with the rotation.
Apr 25 2014Smyly will have his day in the rotation skipped next week, as the Tigers have two days off that week, MLive.com's Chris Iott reports.He would have been scheduled to pitch Monday, which is an off day for Detroit, and they have luxury of resting him with only five games on the schedule next week. He will start next weekend in Kansas City, but manager Brad Ausmus hasn't confirmed what day Smyly will get the ball.
Apr 23 2014Smyly gave up two earned runs on six hits over six solid innings Wednesday against the White Sox. He walked one and struck out seven.Smyly was betrayed by his bullpen in this one, as Evan Reed gave up three earned runs while getting just one out. Smyly likely earned himself another start next week sometime. Stay tuned.
Apr 18 2014Smyly allowed four runs on six hits, walking two and striking out two over just three innings of an 11-6 loss to the Angels on Friday night.It marked the return to the rotation for the southpaw who had been working in long relief while the Tigers schedule allowed them to use just a four man rotation. He had pitched well in those relief outings but he'll need to translate that success into quality starts to bolster his fantasy value.
Apr 15 2014Smyly's next start has been pushed back from Wednesday, after Tuesday's game against Cleveland was postponed, Jason Beck of MLB.com reports.As it lines up, Smyly appears to be on track for a Sunday start against the Angels with the latest schedule changes for the Tigers' starters, but no confirmation from the team has come down at this time.
Apr 11 2014Manager Brad Ausmus said Smyly would return to the rotation for a start Wednesday against the Indians, MLB.com's Jason Beck reports.Smyly has been called upon for two outings of three-inning relief, as a series of oddities in the Tigers' schedule has left them without a need for a fifth starter through the first two weeks of the season. The lefty has been spectacular in both of his three-inning appearances, but he'd obviously yield more value to fantasy owners if he can remain in contention for wins more regularly as a full-time starter.
Apr 10 2014Smyly pitched three shutout innings of relief Wednesday against the Dodgers, finishing with three strikeouts while allowing one hit.Smyly is tabbed to assume the role of fifth starter for the Tigers, but an early-season rain out has led to all of his work coming out of the bullpen to date. Like last season, Smyly has been lights out in his two relief appearances this year, hurling six scoreless innings while striking out six and walking one. He'll be an interesting starting pitcher option when he slides into the rotation next week.
Apr 4 2014Smyly will be used out of the bullpen for the Tigers' pending five-game road trip, James Schmehl of MLive Media Group reportsSmyly's scheduled start this weekend was skipped due to Thursday's rainout, and it appears the Tigers don't plan on starting them when they head west next Tuesday for a five-game stint with the Dodgers and Padres. When the Tigers return home after the trip to face the Indians, they'll begin a stretch of playing on 13 consecutive days, meaning that Smyly should then be re-inserted into the rotation.
Apr 3 2014The Tigers will skip Smyly's scheduled start this weekend due to Thursday's rainout, MLB.com's Jason Beck reports.Smyly was scheduled to start Saturday against the Orioles, but in the wake of Thursday's postponement, third and fourth starters Anibal Sanchez and Rick Porcello were pushed back a day to Friday and Saturday, respectively. Rather than push back ace Justin Verlander a day, he will stay in his scheduled spot Sunday, and Smyly will have to make his first start of the season until later in the month.
Mar 30 2014Smyly is expected to start Detroit's fifth game of the season, the Detroit Free Press reports.No surprise here, as this is the role Smyly was expected to take the moment Doug Fister was traded to Washington during the offseason. Smyly struggled at times this spring, but still managed to finish with a 3.88 ERA in 21.1 innings. There will be some bumps as he transitions from the bullpen to rotation, but Smyly is a decent sleeper for the back end of fantasy rotations.
Mar 19 2014Smyly threw five shutout innings in Tuesday's split squad game against the Blue Jays, allowing just two hits in the Tigers' blowout victory.Smyly's fastball hit 95 MPH on the gun, and he has his cutter working well, in addition to displaying excellent command of his secondary pitches. What makes the start all the more impressive is the fact that Smyly faced a Blue Jays' lineup that was representative of the big league lineup they will use on Opening Day. Catcher Alex Avila praised Smyly after the start, saying that he got stronger as the game went on, adding that Smyly almost never shakes him off, which allows him to get into a rhythm. This performance all but cements his spot as the No. 5 starter in the rotation, and makes him an intriguing fantasy sleeper.
Mar 14 2014Smyly allowed four runs (three earned) on eight hits while striking out one and walking two in 3.1 innings Thursday against the Marlins.The rough outing pushes Smyly's spring ERA to 4.76 with a 8:4 K:BB ratio in 11.1 innings. He has had trouble with his cutter this spring, but Smyly has also refined his changeup, which is a pitch he didn't throw while being deployed in a relief role. The young lefty still has a couple weeks to work off the rust and remains a decent sleeper for the back end of your rotation.
Mar 12 2014Smyly has posted a 3.38 ERA and 7:2 K:BB ratio through his first three appearances this spring.Smyly gave up two bombs to ex-teammate Jhonny Peralta last week, but the 24-year-old southpaw bounced back to hurl three scoreless innings his next time out. After a dominating year out of the Tigers' bullpen, Smyly will transition to the rotation this season. That transition likely means an innings cap, but Smyly remains a popular sleeper to target in drafts.
Dec 2 2013Following Monday's trade of Doug Fister, Smyly should have an inside track at a spot in the Tigers rotation.Smyly started his career with the Tigers as a starter, but he was forced into a bullpen role since mid-2012. In 18 starts as a rookie, Smyly went 4-3 with a 3.79 ERA and 88:26 K:BB ratio in 95 innings. He's pitched even better as a relief pitcher and displayed steady growth throughout the 2013 season. The 24-year-old lefty has immediate mixed-league upside if he sticks in the rotation.
Nov 20 2013Barring an offseason trade of a starting pitcher, Smyly is expected to be a part of the Tigers bullpen again next season, the Detroit News reports.No huge surprise here, as the Tigers currently have five reliable starting pitchers locked up through 2014. That said, there have been rumors of Detroit possibly trading Rick Porcello or Max Scherzer this offseason, which would open up a spot in the rotation for Smyly, who the Tigers still view as a starting pitcher in the long term. If a rotation spot does open up for Smyly, he should be on the radar as an end-of-the-rotation option in most mid-sized formats.
Jul 4 2013Smyly hurled a scoreless eighth inning with two strikeouts in Wednesday's win over the Blue Jays.Tigers manager Jim Leyland doesn't plan on using Smyly in a long-relief role going forward, which could hurt his chances of picking up wins or multi-inning saves, but the young lefty is still a good bet to rack up holds and solid peripheral stats.
Jun 21 2013Smyly picked up his third win of the season Thursday, throwing two scoreless innings with four strikeouts against the Red Sox.The Tigers continue to deploy Smyly in a long-relief role out of the bullpen. While the role does limit his value in some formats, Smyly has still managed to post productive numbers across the board, going 3-0 with two saves, 46 strikeouts and a 1.85 ERA in 43.2 innings.
Jun 17 2013Smyly earned his second save of the season Monday against the Orioles as he recorded three strikeouts in three perfect innings.Smyly was excellent again Monday and now has a 1.94 ERA and 1.01 WHIP this season. He also has 42 strikeouts over 41.2 innings pitched this season, making him one of the more reliable options in Detroit's' bullpen.
May 12 2013Smyly allowed two runs on three hits in 1.2 innings of relief Saturday against the Indians.Those two runs snapped a 14.2 inning scoreless streak that Smyly had been riding since allowing his last earned run on April 12. Despite the rough outing Saturday, Smyly has been stellar in a long relief role for the Tigers this season, going 2-0 with a 1.93 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 24:6 K:BB ratio in 23.1 innings.
May 4 2013Smyly was credited with the win after throwing two perfect innings with one strikeout against the Astros on Friday.Smyly has looked fairly strong coming out of the Tigers pen this season, posting a 21:5 K:BB over 20 innings (10 appearances). He was able to vulture his second win of the season in this one and is likely to remain a strong asset out fo the bullpen. There is also still a chance that he works his way back into the rotation should Rick Porcello continue to stumble. If it doesn't make sense to stash him on your bench now, keep him on your watch-list as a potential add later on into the season.
May 1 2013Smyly will not be available out of Detroit's bullpen Wednesday against Minnesota, MLive.com reports.Detroit's bullpen is overworked at the moment, and Smyly hasn't emerged unscathed, as he has pitched in three of the last four games. During that span, he tossed three scoreless innings with two holds and a 3:1 K:BB ratio. Expect him back in action sooner rather than later.
Apr 21 2013Smyly pitched 5.2 scoreless innings of relief in Saturday's loss to the Angels. He struck out seven while allowing four hits and issuing zero free passes.Smyly entered the game in the first inning after starter Rick Porcello allowed nine runs while managing just two outs. The Tigers don't appear to be on the verge of a switch in their rotation, but Smyly's performance thus far (1.80 ERA, 17:4 K:BB ratio in 15 innings) could eventually force the issue if Porcello continues to struggle.
Apr 13 2013Smyly was charged with the blown save when he allowed the tying run to score in the seventh inning during Friday's 12-inning loss to the A's. He gave up the one run on two hits and a walk with three strikeouts over 2.1 innings.Smyly is filling the role of long-relief swingman this season and will be on-hand for spot-starting duty when needed. As the bridge between starter and set-up man, he doesn't possess much in the way of fantasy value, but could be an interesting option should the Tigers ever need him to join the rotation for any length of time.
Apr 5 2013Smyly picked up a four-inning save Friday against the Yankees.Smyly hurled four perfect innings while striking out five. He's expected to be used in a long relief role this season, so while the occasional save is certainly possible, Smyly shouldn't be considered a primary piece of Detroit's closer-by-committee approach.
Mar 26 2013Smyly will open the season as a long relief option out of the Tigers bullpen, Mlive.com's Chris Iott reports.Smyly was beat out by Rick Porcello for the final spot in the starting rotation. An injury or trade could open the door for Smyly to move into the rotation later this year, but his value will be limited while he's working out of the bullpen.
Mar 23 2013Smyly allowed just one run on four hits in Friday's win over the Nationals. He stuck out five with no walks in five innings.This was a nice bounce-back outing for Smyly, who had allowed five runs in his previous outing. The 23-year-old lefty has had an impressive spring, but barring a trade or injury, it looks like he'll open the season as a long reliever with Rick Porcello getting the nod as the Tigers' fifth starter.
Mar 18 2013Smyly was roughed up to the tune of five runs in four innings Sunday against the Nationals.Smyly struck out five and walked only one, but the Nationals were able to pile up seven hits on the young lefty. Overall, Smyly is still having a decent spring (3.31 ERA), but his six earned runs over the past 7.1 innings pitched has likely put him behind Rick Porcello in the competition for the final spot in the rotation.
Mar 8 2013Smyly threw four scoreless innings in Thursday's 9-2 win over the Braves.Smyly has now thrown nine scoreless innings this spring. The Tigers haven't committed to a fifth starter yet, but Smyly's impressive showing this spring has likely put him neck-to-neck with Rick Porcello.
Mar 3 2013Smyly hurled three scoreless innings in Saturday's split-squad game against the Pirates.Smyly continues to battle with Rick Porcello for the final spot in the Tigers rotation. Porcello has the early leg up, but the competition will likely extend throughout the entirety of spring training.
Feb 21 2013Smyly has worked on improving his changeup this spring, Mlive.com reports.Smyly rarely used his changeup last year, as he primarily relied on his fastball, breaking ball and cutter. Adding a more refined changeup to the mix would certainly help keep hitters more off balance, which will be needed for Smyly if he hopes to beat out Rick Porcello for the final spot in the Tigers rotation.
Jan 17 2013Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski said Wednesday that Rick Porcello has the "leg up" over Smyly for the final spot in the starting rotation, the Detroit Free Press reports.Porcello has reportedly been on the trading block ever since Anibal Sanchez re-signed with the Tigers, so this could just be Dombrowski trying to gain some leverage in trade talks. The odds are still high that Detroit trades a starting pitcher before Opening Day, but if Porcello stays in Detroit, he and Smyly figure to battle for the final spot in the rotation during spring training.
Dec 14 2012With Anibal Sanchez reportedly re-signing with the Tigers, Smyly is expected to compete against Rick Porcello for the final spot in the rotation this spring, Mlive.com reports.Both players are deserving of a spot in the rotation, so the Tigers could also explore trading one of them. If both players are kept, Porcello should be considered the early frontrunner, but we don't expect a final decision to come down until some time in spring training.
Nov 6 2012Smyly is expected to be the Tigers' top choice for the fifth spot in the rotation if free agent Anibal Sanchez signs elsewhere this offseason, Mlive.com reports.Smyly worked in the rotation and out of the bullpen during his rookie season, finishing 4-3 with a 3.99 ERA and 94:33 K:BB ratio in 99.1 innings. He'll be an interesting rotation filler in fantasy leagues for 2013 if he nabs the final spot in the Tigers rotation.
Oct 3 2012Tigers manager Jim Leyland said Smyly wouldn't make a spot start in place of the injured Max Scherzer (ankle) for Wednesday's season finale, the Detroit News reports.Leyland wants to keep Smyly available for a start in the postseason in case Scherzer's injury is worst than expected. So while Smyly may take the mound Wednesday, he would do so in a relief role. Luis Marte is expected to get the start with the Tigers using a mix of bullpen guys to get through the final game of the season.
Sep 29 2012Smyly pitched 5.1 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits and a walk while striking out five against the Twins on Friday.Smyly has made two starts since rejoining the rotation and has answered with 9.2 scoreless innings with seven strikeouts to three walks. With Max Scherzer unlikely to make his next scheduled start, Smyly will start the Tigers' final game of the season against Kansas City and should be considered a low-end streaming candidate here at the end.
Sep 24 2012Smyly allowed one unearned run while pitching 4.1 innings in Game 2 of Sunday's double-header against the Twins.He finished with two strikeouts and two walks while allowing three hits. The Tigers have set their rotation for the remainder of the regular season and Smyly isn't a part of it. Smyly would likely be the top candidate if any spot starts are needed, but he'll probably spend the remainder of the season working out of the bullpen.
Sep 22 2012Smyly will start the first game of Sunday's doubleheader against the Twins, the Detroit News reports.Smyly got off to a great start this season, but he hasn't pitched well since mid-May, and his last start come on Aug. 25. He does however, have 87 strikeouts in 89 innings this season, and could be worth a look in deeper leagues.
Sep 21 2012Tigers manager Jim Leyland said he's "99 percent sure" that Smyly would get the spot start Sunday if Max Scherzer (shoulder) isn't healthy enough to pitch, the Detroit News reports.The Tigers still don't know Scherzer's status for Sunday's tilt against the Twins, but the team should make a decision Friday or Saturday. Smyly is worth a look as a streaming option if he gets the nod.
Sep 20 2012Smyly is the most likely candidate to fill in as a spot starter if Max Scherzer (shoulder) misses any action, Mlive.com reports.The Tigers will re-evaluate Scherzer later this week, so a decision likely won't be made until a day or two before Sunday's tilt against the Twins. While he has had some up and downs in his rookie season, Smyly would be worth a look as a streaming option against the Twins should he get the nod.
Sep 1 2012Smyly made his first appearance out of the Tigers' bullpen Friday, allowing one run and walking two while recording just one out.After making a spot start last week, Smyly will stick around to work out of Detroit's bullpen. He could see a start or two down the stretch, but he'll be used primarily as a reliever for the reminder of the season.
Aug 29 2012With Doug Fister (groin) scheduled to return to the rotation Friday, Smyly will be used in a long-relief role going forward, the Detroit News reports.Smyly was called up to make a spot start in place of Fister last week. The rookie lefty held the Angels to three runs (one earned) over six innings. he won't provide much value out of the bullpen, but Smyly could be a streaming option if the Tigers need another spot start or two down the stretch.
Aug 26 2012Smyly, who was recalled and made a spot start Saturday, will stick with the Tigers and be used out of the bullpen, Mlive.com reports.Smyly was solid Saturday against the Angels, allowing just three runs (one earned) in six innings. He'll be used primarily as a long relief option out of the bullpen, but Smyly will also be the Tigers first choice for any spot starts that may need to be made going forward. He could be worth a flier in deep AL-only leagues.
Aug 25 2012Smyly allowed three runs (one earned) over six innings and did not factor in the decision Saturday against the Angels.He gave up four hits while walking two and striking out six. This was his first start in the big leagues since July 6 after spending most of July and August in Triple-A Toledo. It's unknown whether he will remain with the team in the bullpen or be sent back to Toledo, either way Smyly did a nice job filling in for Doug Fister on Saturday.
Aug 25 2012Smyly was recalled by the Tigers on Friday night, Mlive.com reports.Smyly was recalled to make a spot start for Doug Fister, who's dealing with a minor groin injury. Fister is expected to be back on the mound Aug 31, so Smyly could get sent back down to the minors or move to a bullpen role after Saturday's start. For now, Smyly is a streaming option only.
Jul 29 2012Smyly (ribs) will be optioned to Triple-A Toledo once he is activated from the disabled list, MLive.com's Chris Iott reports.Smyly will start for Triple-A Toledo on Tuesday. The Tigers acquired Anibal Sanchez earlier in the week, so Smyly will likely pitch for Toldeo for the rest of the season. Smyly is 4-3 with a 4.42 ERA in 15 starts for the Tigers this season.
Jul 27 2012Smyly (rib strain) threw a 50-pitch bullpen session Thursday, Mlive.com reports.All went well during his bullpen session, and Smyly will likely start a rehab assignment soon. Once activated, Smyly is expected to be optioned to Triple-A Toledo, where he'll likely stay unless someone in the Tigers rotation suffers an injury.
Jul 25 2012Smyly (ribs) threw from a mound Tuesday for the first time since going on the 15-day disabled list, the Detroit Free Press reports.With the Tigers acquiring starter Anibal Sanchez earlier this week, Smyly's place on the roster is now in question. The most likely scenario is Smyly will be optioned to Triple-A Toledo and slot into the rotation there once healthy.
Jul 24 2012Smyly, who's currently on the 15-day disabled list with a right intercostal strain, lost his spot in the rotation following the Tigers' acquisition of Anibal Sanchez on Monday.Smyly still doesn't have a concrete timetable for a return. Once he does return, the Tigers could deploy Smyly as a long reliever out of the bullpen or send him to the minors to keep him stretched out in case a starter is needed later in the season.
Jul 15 2012The Tigers expect Smyly (ribs) to miss more than just one start while he's on the 15-day disabled list, Mlive.com reports.Smyly is eligible to come of the DL on July 22, but the Tigers don't expect him to be ready by then. Like we saw with Doug Fister earlier this season intercostal strains can sometimes linger, so the Tigers will be cautious with Smyly. Missing two turns in the rotation appears to be a best-case scenario at this point.
Jul 14 2012Smyly has been placed on the 15-day DL retroactive to July 7 with a right intercostal strain, Tigers Director of Media Relations Brian Britten reports.With the retroactive move, it's possible that Smyly will only miss one turn in the rotation. Jacob Turner is the projected starter in Smyly's place Tuesday, while Luis Marte has been recalled from Toledo to replace him on the roster.
Jul 6 2012Smyly allowed two runs on six hits, striking out 10 and not walking a batter over six innings of a 4-2 win over Kansas City on Friday night.That's back-to-back solid performances for Smyly who struggled throughout most of June. In this one, he threw 71 of 106 pitches for strikes, and he will try to build on the strong performance as he heads into the second half.
Jul 2 2012Smyly picked up his first win since May 25, holding the Rays to three runs on three hits and one walk across five innings, as the Tigers won 5-3 on Sunday.Smyly also tallied four strikeouts, none more important than the final one of his appearance. In the bottom of the fifth, tied three-all, with a man on second and two outs after two runs already scored, he got Desmond Jennings looking to stymie a threat. While Smyly's ERA has inflated to 4.54, he still boasts a 7.98 K/9IP in this his rookie season. He will take the mound again Friday versus Kansas City in his final start before the All-Star break.
Jun 27 2012Smyly allowed six runs -- all earned -- on eight hits in 4.2 innings against the Rangers on Tuesday.Smyly returned from the 15-day disabled list to post his worst start of the season. The young lefty was going up against a tough Rangers' lineup in one of the best hitter's parks in the league, though. Still, Smyly has been struggling after an impressive start to the season, going just 1-3 with a 7.34 ERA over his past seven starts. Shallower formats may want to start looking for a more proven option.
Jun 26 2012Smyly (finger) was activated from the disabled list Tuesday, Tigers Director of Media Relations Brian Britten reports.As expected, Smyly is activated and will start Tuesday against the Rangers. The southpaw struck out seven while holding Texas to one run on five hits over six innings on Apr. 22.
Jun 24 2012Smyly (finger) will start for the Tigers on Tuesday against Texas, Brian Britten of Tigers PR reports.Smyly hit the DL back on June 14, so he'll end up missing just over the requisite 15 days. He has performed admirably in his rookie campaign, allowing a 3.96 ERA and 1.272 WHIP in 12 starts.
Jun 19 2012Smyly (finger) threw a bullpen session Tuesday and declared himself ready to pitch, Chris Iott of MLB.com reports.He's eligible to return from the DL on Monday and should be ready to roll at that time. Jacob Turner will start in his place Thursday, while Smyly will face the Rangers in his return to the rotation next week.
Jun 17 2012Smyly (finger) played catch Saturday for the first time since hitting the 15-day DL, MLive.com reports.He's eligible to come off the disabled list June 25, and the rookie fully expects to be ready at that time. The Tigers could turn to Jacob Turner if the team needs a spot starter before Smyly's return.
Jun 14 2012Smyly (finger) will be placed on the 15-day DL, FoxSports.com reports.Smyly sustained a severe blister during Sunday's start, causing him to leave the game early. Doug Fister is nearing the end of his DL stint and could be poised to take Smyly's spot in the rotation while he remains out.
Jun 10 2012Smyly left Sunday's start with a blister on his index finger.The finger was shown on the broadcast Sunday night and it looked like a nasty one with blood vessels in view under the skin. Smyly is day-to-day for now.
Jun 5 2012Smyly took the loss Tuesday against Cleveland, allowing six hits and four runs over six innings.Smyly struck out five against two walks but was the victim of three triples. It's tough to strand runners when they start out at third base. Smyly's ERA is up to 3.71 on the season.
May 30 2012Smyly spread eight hits across six innings, allowing four runs while striking out four during Detroit's loss Wednesday at Boston. He didn't factor in the decision, though.Smyly smiled upon the Red Sox in the fourth inning, giving up five straight hits, including two-run home runs to both David Ortiz and Will Middlebrooks. After a stellar start to the season, Smyly's ERA has risen rapidly from 1.59 to 3.46 as he's allowed 15 runs and six homers in 20.2 innings over his last four starts. Look for him to attempt to stem the tide in his next start Tuesday against Cleveland.
May 25 2012Smyly allowed four runs (three earned) off six hits and two walks while striking out two through five innings to beat the Twins on Friday.The win was just Smyly's second of the season but he has maintained solid numbers with 46 strikeouts in 48.2 innings and a 3.14 ERA. He did labor a little in this start, needing 93 pitches to make it through the five frames, but has been a decent fantasy play all year. He'll have a tough test against Boston in Fenway Park next week, though.
May 19 2012Smyly allowed four runs on seven hits in just 4.2 innings against the Pirates on Saturday to take his first loss of the season.All of the Pirates' runs came via two two-run home runs off Andrew McCutchen's bat. This was the second straight outing in which Smyly failed to make it to the sixth inning, and the rookie has yet to record an out in the seventh inning this season. Smyly has struck out more than a batter an inning through 43.2 frames, but wins might be tough to accumulate en masse without working deeper into games.
May 14 2012Smyly gave up four runs on five hits over five innings in a no-decision against the White Sox on Monday.He was pulled despite throwing just 69 pitches, as the matchup against a number of right-handed hitters in the sixth inning prompted the decision to give Luke Putkonen the ball. Smyly struck out four and walked one, but left a couple of pitches up in the strike zone that the White Sox were able to turn into homers. Smyly lines up to face the Pirates at Comerica Park on Saturday in his next start.
May 10 2012Smyly pitched well again Wednesday night against the Mariners, but came away with nothing to show for it. Smyly left with a no-decision after going six innings and giving up just run while striking out five batters.Smyly continues to impress game after game. With this latest start, he lowered his ERA to 1.59 and his WHIP to 1.09 -- not bad for an unheralded rookie.
May 4 2012Smyly turned in another solid outing Friday, allowing just two runs on seven hits, walking none and striking out seven over six innings, but was left with no decision.The performance dropped his ERA to 1.61 and further solidified his spot in the Detroit rotation. He is unlikely to enjoy this level of success as opposing hitters become more familiar with him, but he is worth a play until that happens, including his next scheduled outing against the light-hitting Mariners in Seattle.
Apr 28 2012Smyly went six innings and allowed one run on two hits and two walks while striking out seven in Saturday's 7-5 win over the Yankees.Smyly gave up a solo home run to Nick Swisher in the first inning, but shut down the Yankees after that and picked up his first win of the year. He has an ERA of 1.23 through 22 innings this season, and should be one of the more popular adds over the next few days. It is not reasonable to expect this level of dominance to continue, but the 22-year-old has a lot of potential and is attached to a great lineup.
Apr 22 2012Smyly was sharp in a no-decision Sunday against Texas, allowing just one run on five hits and two walks while striking out seven.It's a very impressive start for the rookie, particularly accounting for the Rangers' excellent lineup. Smyly has a very solid 15 strikeouts to six walks through his first three starts and is looking like he can be a very capable fifth starter for the Tigers this season.
Apr 19 2012Smyly remains on schedule to make his next start despite taking a line drive in the back during Tuesday's start against the Royals, Mlive.com reports.Smyly said his back felt a "little stiff" on Wednesday, but he should be fine for his next start, which is scheduled for Sunday against the Rangers.
Apr 17 2012Smyly was sharp in his second MLB start Tuesday, allowing just one unearned run on seven hits and a walk over eight innings in a no-decision.Smyly now has allowed just one earned run in his first 10 innings while striking out eight batters. He looks like he'll be worth a look in deeper leagues, particularly considering the Tigers' typical ability to win games with their offense. This time, however, it didn't kick in until the eighth inning.
Apr 8 2012Smyly was roughed up in his final tune-up before joining the Tigers rotation, allowing three runs in 1.2 innings Saturday against Triple-A Indianapolis. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Despite the rough outing Saturday, Smyly is still set to make his major league debut Thursday against the Rays. He has been successful in the minors and had a strong spring, but Smyly enters 2012 as a bit of an unknown. Saturday marked his first career start in Triple-A, so he doesn't have the track record against the higher levels of the minors that most prospects will have before making the jump to the big leagues. Smyly is worth a flier in deep AL-only leagues, but shallower formats should take a wait-and-see approach with the young lefty.
Mar 29 2012Smyly allowed three runs on three hits while striking out three and walking two in 4.2 innings against the Cardinals on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The 22-year-old southpaw is set to make his final start of the spring Monday. He remains in competition with Andrew Oliver and Duane Below for the final spot in the Tigers' rotation. Detroit manager Jim Leyland will likely wait until after all three of their candidates make their final starts of the spring before anointing a winner.
Mar 24 2012Smyly struck out eight in four scoreless innings Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: He faced a Braves minor-league lineup, so the competition wasn't very strong, but Smyly still took a huge step in staking claim on the final spot in the Tigers' rotation. At this point, he's neck and neck with Andrew Oliver for the job.
Mar 17 2012Smyly hurled four shutout innings Saturday against the Cardinals. He struck out four while walking two and allowing zero hits. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly has been impressive this spring, compiling a 1.13 ERA and 7:3 K:BB ratio in eight innings. He's one of four candidates remaining for the final spot in the Tigers starting rotation. Duane Below and Andrew Oliver are the current favorites, but SMyly could win the job with a strong finish this spring.
Mar 13 2012Smyly is considered one of the favorites for the final spot in the Tigers' starting rotation, the Detroit News reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Lynn Henning, who's covers the Tigers for the Detroit News, is speculating a bit here, giving Smyly the edge because of his age and experience over the younger candidates. While Smyly should definitely be on the radar for AL-only leagues, the competition for the final spot in Detroit's rotation probably won't be settled until we get closer to Opening Day.
Feb 8 2012Tigers general manager Dave Dombrowski once again touted Smyly as a candidate for the final spot in the starting rotation Tuesday, the Detroit Free Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly was the Tigers' minor league pitcher of the year in 2011 and would give the team a much-needed left-handed option in the rotation, but he remains one of a handful of options for the team. Jacob Turner is considered the early favorite to win the final spot in the rotation, with Smyly, Andy Oliver, Duane Below and Adam Wilk as considered candidates.
Jan 12 2012Smyly will be a non-roster invitee to spring training, Mlive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While non-roster invitees are always considered long shots to make the Opening Day roster, Smyly actually has a chance to earn a spot. Assuming the Tigers don't bring in another veteran, Smyly is expected to compete with Jacob Turner and other prospects for the final spot in the rotation. If he nabs a roster spot, Smyly could factor in to deep AL-only leagues.
Nov 2 2011Smyly is expected to be receive consideration for the final spot in the Tigers' starting rotation next season, Mlive.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Smyly is coming off a solid year in the minors, finishing 11-6 with a 2.07 ERA and 130:36 K:BB ratio in 21 starts split between High-A Lakeland and Double-A Erie. He'll compete for a spot in the Detroit's rotation with Jacob Turner, Adam Wilk, Duane Below, Andy Oliver and any veterans the Tigers might sign this offseason. Turner is considered the early favorite to land the gig.