Nate Robertson

Robertson was terrible last season. His K:BB ratio didn't change much from years prior, but he was even more hittable than ever. Part of that might be attributable to a poor defense behind him, but Robertson also struggled with his slider, which was often flat and easily smoked by opposing hitters. He was moved to the bullpen toward the end of the year and struggled there as well. The Tigers would like to unload Robertson's contract but are unlikely to find a taker. Instead, the team will have to give him a chance to compete for a rotation spot in spring. If he fails to rebound he'll be an expensive reliever for the club. Either way, he doesn't warrant consideration in fantasy leagues until he shows he can pitch effectively again.

Robertson struggled to find consistency last year after a solid 2006 season. A slight increase in his walk rate and a not-so-slight increase in his hit race were the main culprits in his disappointing season. Tigers manager Jim Leyland felt Robertson was dealing with a bit of a dead arm during the season and forced Robertson to the disabled list for a bit of a rest. He'll be part of the Detroit rotation again this season and should post fairly similar numbers to what he's done over the past three seasons, making him a mediocre fantasy play.

Robertson put together a career year last season, posting the best win total, ERA and WHIP of his five major league seasons. He made some small improvements in his command and hit rate but otherwise was basically the same pitcher from years prior. His skill set doesn't indicate a pitcher who is ready to make another major leap forward. At best, hope for a similar season to last year, which makes Robertson a decent option in good matchups.

Robertson actually posted a better ERA in 2005 than he did in 2004 despite worse command and a weaker strikeout rate. He's unlikely to take much of a step forward in 2006 and should remain a fairly average back-of-the-rotation starter.

Robertson exceeded expectations last season. He has a decent fastball and slider and is projected to be Detroit's No. 4 starter this year. He should be able to repeat or even improve slightly upon his 2004 numbers.

Robertson came over to the Tigers in the Mark Redman deal, spending most of the year pitching fairly well at Triple-A Toledo. The effectiveness didn't translate once he was called up to Detroit, but he wasn't so bad that he won't get another chance. Just make sure it's the Tigers that give him that chance, and not you.

Did not impress in his limited September action, but he did about as well as you'd expect from someone who only struck out 109 in 163 Double-A innings. Might not get another chance in the majors until 2004, or even with Florida for that matter.