Max Lazar DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

The Philadelphia Phillies optioned right-handed pitcher Max Lazar to Triple-A on Saturday. Lazar was competing for a spot in the Opening Day bullpen but will begin his season at the Triple-A level instead. Last season, the 25-year-old made his MLB debut and held a 4.61 ERA with a 1.10 WHIP. He tallied punchouts at a low 16.7 percent but showed elite command as he held a 3.7 percent walk rate. He also generated a strong 4.7 percent barrel rate. With Triple-A Lehigh Valley last summer, Lazar posted a strong 2.45 ERA with a 1.03 WHIP. He also showed strong command at this level, as he allowed just 10 walks across 33 innings of work. Fantasy managers in deeper formats should continue to monitor his status at Triple-A as he will likely return to the majors when the Phillies need additional depth in their bullpen.