Red Sox
Fast fact: 10 first-pitch HRs tied for most in majors; fourth in opposing BA at .245 Lowdown: If you’re looking for a sleeper Cy Young Award candidate, this is your man. Despite the 5-plus ERA and 36 HRs allowed, second most in the majors, Beckett stayed healthy last season, throwing over 200 innings for the first time in his career and winning 16 games. He vows to rely on his changeup and curveball more this season and has slowed down his delivery, which he says will help his control. Turning 27 in May 15, he is entering the prime of his career and at $10 million per for three seasons, is a bargain.
SP Josh Beckett
Fast fact: 10 first-pitch HRs tied for most in majors; fourth in opposing BA at .245 Lowdown: If you’re looking for a sleeper Cy Young Award candidate, this is your man. Despite the 5-plus ERA and 36 HRs allowed, second most in the majors, Beckett stayed healthy last season, throwing over 200 innings for the first time in his career and winning 16 games. He vows to rely on his changeup and curveball more this season and has slowed down his delivery, which he says will help his control. Turning 27 in May 15, he is entering the prime of his career and at $10 million per for three seasons, is a bargain.
(AP Photo)