Simeon Woods Richardson DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

According to Betsy Helfand of TwinCities.com, Twins right-handed pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson is viewed as a "leading" candidate for the fifth starter role. While he is not guaranteed the spot, he is viewed as the top option entering camp. Minnesota's young pitchers, such as David Festa and Zebby Matthews, will compete for this spot alongside Woods Richardson. Last season, Woods Richardson logged a career-high 133 2/3 innings. During his first 82 frames, the 24-year-old was quite effective as he held a 3.51 ERA with a 1.15 WHIP. However, over his final 51 2/3, Woods Richardson took a step back as he posted a 5.23 ERA with a 1.53 WHIP. Fantasy managers should continue to monitor his progress during spring training, as he could be a viable low-end starting pitcher in deeper formats if he earns a permanent spot in the rotation.

The Minnesota Twins optioned right-hander Simeon Woods Richardson to Triple-A St. Paul and recalled catcher Jair Camargo from St. Paul on Thursday. With Woods Richardson not set to pitch again during the regular season in 2024, the Twins elected to send him down to give them extra catching depth to close out the weekend series versus the Baltimore Orioles. The 24-year-old went out on a sour note in his first year in the big leagues by allowing three earned runs on six hits (one homer) while walking one and striking out two in just one inning in his final start on Wednesday against the Marlins. In his third year with the Twins in 2024, Woods Richardson ended up going 5-5 with a 4.17 ERA (4.12 FIP), a 1.29 WHIP and a 117:48 K:BB in 133 2/3 innings over 28 starts in his first full season in the big leagues. He came into 2024 with only 9 2/3 innings pitched in the big leagues.

Minnesota Twins starting pitcher Simeon Woods Richardson continued his strong rookie season in Tuesday's 3-0 loss to the Phillies. Woods Richardson pitched six scoreless innings, allowing three hits and a walk with five strikeouts. Unfortunately, his offense was held in check by a strong start from Zach Wheeler, leaving him without a chance at a win. The 23-year-old is now 3-1 with a 3.27 ERA, a 7.77 K/9 rate, and a 2.56 BB/9 rate in 17 starts and 88 IP. His next start will be a middling one at the Mets, but he should draw two starts in that week, making him a worthy fantasy start.