2009 FBS Sleeper Player: Jeremy Guthrie

Team: Baltimore Orioles
Throws: Right

Position: SP

Although his 10-12 record from 2008 doesn't really do anything to excite you, if you look at some of his performances there is reason for optimism for the future. Guthrie allowed two runs or less in a whopping 17 of his 30 starts on his way to a 3.63 ERA which is great for a guy with a losing record. His strikeout rate was much better in the minors than it has been with Baltimore, including 100 Ks in 136 innings in 2005 so there is hope that he will improve in that area. Also working in his favor is the fact that the Orioles are taking small steps towards becoming more respectable. They signed Nick Markakis long term, Brian Roberts is still good, and they have young catcher Matt Wieters on the way. With a fairly solid bullpen including George Sherrill and the returning Chris Ray, perhaps the O's won't be as much of a laughing stock. That should help change some of those losses and no decisions turn into wins when Guthrie gave up three runs or less. He will be 30 shortly after the season starts, so expecting a large improvement is unrealstic, but after a rough finish to the season Guthrie will be forgotten in many drafts. Given his tough luck and improving team though, look for him to have a better record than he did in 2008 because the rest of his stats weren't bad at all.

Prediction: 14-11 record, 3.76 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 155 Ks