Slade Cecconi DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

According to Jeff Passan, right-handed pitcher Slade Cecconi was traded to the Cleveland Guardians in exchange for first baseman Josh Naylor. Cecconi has spent his entire professional career in the Arizona Diamondbacks system. He made his major league debut in 2023 and posted a 4.33 ERA and a 1.15 WHIP across 27 innings. Last summer, posted a high 6.66 ERA and a 1.42 WHIP across 77 innings. The Miami product bounced between the rotation and the bullpen during both of his major league stints. In the minor leagues he operated primarily as a starter and held a 5.23 ERA and 1.27 WHIP through 163 1/3 innings. Despite his high ratios, he possess great command as he posted an impressive 5.0% walk rate. With the Guardians losing Matthew Boyd earlier this offseason to the Chicago Cubs, Cecconi could have an opportunity to compete for a spot in the starting rotation during Spring Training.

Arizona Diamondbacks pitching prospect Slade Cecconi was selected 33rd overall pick in the 2020 draft. He appeared in seven MLB games last season but retains his prospect status. Furthermore, given the Diamondbacks' strong rotation, there was simply no room for Cecconi in the Opening Day rotation. The right-hander boasts an impressive four-pitch mix, and while he has nearly hit 100 mph with his heater, Cecconi's best results come when throwing the breaking ball. Cecconi made his 2024 debut last week in a start for the Reno Aces. He tossed five no-hit innings, allowing just two walks and striking out five batters. He was also quite efficient, requiring just 68 pitches before being replaced. Although he won't be an MLB ace anytime soon, Cecconi could be the first player called up when a Diamondbacks starter gets hurt.