Glendon Rusch

2013

There was no outlook written for Glendon Rusch.

2009

It seems like he's older than 34, doesn't it? Valuable in real life, not very valuable in fantasy, which isn't to say Rusch couldn't be a decent FAAB pickup depending on where he lands in May.

2007

Rusch was a virtual launching pad last season, allowing 21 home runs in just 66 innings before a blood clot in his lung ended his season. While the condition is not life-threatening, Rusch isn't expected back until midseason at the earliest. At that point, he'd likely vie for a long relief role. It's worth noting that his fly-ball rate wasn't all that extreme, so his home-run rate should come down significantly when he returns.

2006

Rusch gets by with average stuff and good command, keeping the walks down, enough fly balls in the park and striking out just enough hitters to be effective. He's capable of starting or pitching in long relief, and his role could depend on Kerry Wood's recovery from elbow surgery.

2005

Rusch parlayed a minor league contract prior to 2004 into a two-year, $4 million extension this past November by pitching solidly both as a starter and long reliever. He won't blow anyone anyway, but has very good control and could begin 2005 as the Cubs No. 5 starter.

2004

Rusch had a horrible 2003 season with Milwaukee and is a free agent. Because he is a lefty, he will always be able to find a job, but he will most likely be put in the bullpen wherever he goes. His nominally good K:BB ratio has long fooled a number of fantasy owners that his career would turnaround at some point, but his hits allowed per innings pitched has always been high, and doesn't appear to be a fluke.

2003

Rusch was a workhorse for the Brewers in 2002, posting a 4.70 ERA in 210 2/3 innings of work. He was stung by the long ball, giving up 30 HR, and had some control problems.