Streaming Pitcher for April 15: Trevor Bauer

Apr 4, 2015; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Cleveland Indians starting pitcher Trevor Bauer (47) pitches against the Milwaukee Brewers at Maryvale Baseball Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Streaming pitchers takes a lot of skill. It also takes a lot of luck. Trying to figure out which one has the best matchup and best chance to make it through six innings and not give up a ton of runs. It’s been an up-and-down season so far with my streaming picks. I plan on turning it around with my pick for Wednesday, Cleveland Indians pitcher Trevor Bauer.

In his first start of the season, Bauer almost went the distance with the no-hitter against the Houston Astros. He didn’t allow a hit in six innings, but his 111 pitches prevented him from going any further. He sits at 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA, 0.833 WHIP, 11 strikeouts and five walks issued.

Last season, Bauer was all over the place. He went 5-8 with a 4.18 ERA and 1.379 WHIP. There were eight of his 26 outings in which Bauer allowed four or more earned runs. He also walked four or more batters four times in August and September.

Bauer still needs to work on his control. Despite striking out 11 in his first start, his five walks are a cause for concern. If he can prevent the walks while striking out 10+, he has the makings of a top-25 pitcher.

Bauer faces the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday. In two starts, he has a 6.14 ERA. I don’t expect Bauer’s ERA to be that high this time, but the WHIP could reach the 2.00 mark. In his one start against the White Sox last year, he didn’t allow a run in 6 2/3 innings while striking out 10 and walking three batters. It still remains seen which Bauer to expect on a start-to-star basis.

He is currently owned in 77.6 percent of ESPN.com leagues. There has been an increase of 68.1 percent since Opening Day last week. If he is still available in your league or play in a daily league, pick up Bauer as your Wednesday streaming option.