Brewers: Corey Knebel is worth a speculative add

By Bill Pivetz | Apr 20, 2017

Apr 11, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Milwaukee Brewers relief pitcher Corey Knebel (46) delivers a pitch against Toronto Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /

Brewers relief pitcher Corey Knebel is dominating as a set-up man. However, he could be getting save chances later this season and be worth adding.

The Milwaukee Brewers will likely not be competing for the National League Central title. Despite the recent offensive production, most of the starting pitchers are struggling. As a result, I think the Brewers will be sellers at the trade deadline. This can open up some jobs in the second half.

The Brewers current closer is Neftali Feliz. Milwaukee is paying him just over $5 million for this season. If the Brewers are far behind by July, I think they could move on from Feliz’s services and try to ship him off to a contender for some prospects in return. This would open the job for set-up man Corey Knebel.

Knebel doesn’t have much closer experience, only two career saves, but he has the stuff to get it done. He has a career 10.7 K/9 and 3.6 BB/9. Knebel posted a 4.68 ERA but his 3.57 FIP is more reflective of who Knebel actually is.

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In 8.1 innings this season, he has a 1.08 ERA, 0.96 WHIP, 13 K.9 and 4.3 BB/9. If he can reduce that walk rate by half, then he has the making to be a top-30 relief pitcher.

Knebel was thought to be the team’s closer before they signed Feliz in January. He is doing his job as the set-up man as he has a hold in five straight appearances.

In those last 4.2 innings, Knebel has a 8:2 K:BB ratio with four hits allowed. If you play in a league with holds, Knebel is still widely available. If you need extra strikeouts or a boost to your ratio stats, Knebel is your guy.

The reliever pool is very shallow. With multiple guys already losing their job, the number of speculative adds has been reduced greatly. The Washington Nationals and Philadelphia Phillies already burned their Opening Day closer by announcing changes. Add that to the few that are injured, the waiver wire is shrinking.

It’s important to add those set-up men now. Knebel is throwing the ball well and could take over the closer job in a couple of months. Until he’s able to give you saves, take advantage of everything else he can give to you.

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This could all be a moot point if Feliz remains with the team after the deadline. However, I would still add him for the holds and low ratio stats. Knebel is owned in just 3.5 percent of ESPN leagues. So, if you’re hesitant, you got some time, but I wouldn’t wait if you need pitching help.

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