Brady Aiken

Aiken undoubtedly appeals to a certain type of dynasty league owner. He oozes pedigree (17th overall pick) and is more projection than substance. The risk is through the roof, but if he comes close to hitting his ceiling, then he is a No. 1 or No. 2 starter. A more conservative owner would look at his uneven production in his first year back from Tommy John surgery, factor in that he is roughly three or four years away from sniffing the majors, and conclude that there are better ways to use a minor league roster spot. Fastball velocity and command will determine which outlook is correct. Aiken was sitting 89-91 mph with the pitch in 2016 as he worked on rebuilding arm strength. He also struggled to command the pitch. If he adds a couple ticks to his heater and demonstrates average or better command in his second season as a pro, then Aiken could finish the season as one of the top pitching prospects in the game. If not, the intrigue that surrounds his prospect star will start to give way to fatigue.