Eric Gagne

2013

There was no outlook written for Eric Gagne.

2009

The Brewers took a shot on Gagne as their closer in 2008 and it blew up on them. He had a 5.44 ERA in 46.1 innings, but it likely could have been much worse than that. He allowed 2.14 HR/9IP and had a 4.27 BB/9IP while pitching in a lot of high leverage situations. The Brewers will not be bringing Gagne back in 2009 and he will look to revive his career with another team.

2008

Gagne collected a full World Series share from the Red Sox and should take his money and run. He was awful after coming over to Boston from Texas in July, though the one constant at both stops was his ability to miss bats (51 K in 52 IP), a good sign that his surgically repaired elbow is in decent health. Gagne signed with the Brewers in the offseason where he'll take over the closer role. Incidentally, Gagne was named a user of HGH in the Mitchell report, though it's unclear if he'll face any disciplinary action.

2007

Gagne had arguably the best three-year reliever run in baseball history between 2002-2004, a period in which he pitched 82.1 innings each season. Apparently the workload caught up to him, as elbow injuries have limited Gagne to 15.1 innings the last two years combined. He's reportedly healthy and feeling great, and the Rangers signed him to a one-year contract in the offseason. Due to his potential, Gagne can't be ignored, so monitor his progress this offseason and in spring training before deciding where to slot him on your cheatsheets.

2006

Gagne is slated to be ready for the start of spring training in the course of his rehab from elbow surgery and plans to pitch for Canada in the World Baseball Classic in March. Usually a pitcher can regain his velocity fairly quickly in his return from elbow surgery, but his command takes a little longer to come back. Don't be surprised if he struggles early on, and pay attention to his early velocity numbers.

2005

Gagne's major league saves streak ended at 84 games last season but that was bound to happen. He's still a top closer in fantasy leagues and should be one of the first off the board.

2004

Game over. Gagne put up perhaps the most dominating season ever by a relief pitcher and has now saved over 50 games two seasons in a row. He is in his prime and will likely earn every penny you pay for him in 2004.

2003

The best value in baseball last year - 52 saves and an ERA under 2.00 for $300,000. Gagne has a nasty repertoire and one of baseball's most intimidating looks with the Goggle Effect.