Masahiro Tanaka the rest of the way

[Ryno84MVP]

In my 12-team AL-only 5x5 league, I'm battling for first place and my biggest need is help in ERA and WHIP (already first in wins and strikeouts). I'm considering a trade for Tanaka ($25A if it matters), but despite good (not great) numbers this year, his health (especially the partially torn ligament in his elbow) give me pause. Is he a viable target? An alternative from another team might be Anibal Sanchez (final year of contract). Thoughts?

[joncarlos]

I have to think that if he's made it this far, the odds of him staying on the mound have increased. He's still a ticking time bomb, and he has occasional messy starts that make me think the end is near, but I think he's a reasonable bet for the rest of the year. The Yankees seem intent on sticking in the playoff race so they have no incentive to shut him down. I don't think I'd take Anibal and the spaghetti in his shoulder over Tanaka at this point.

[chancellor]

I'd take Tanaka over Anibal, but neither of them thrill me in the least.

[The Feral Slasher]

That's where I'm at, too. I can't imagine that I'd be able to land Tanaka for the little I'd want to pay for him. In a vacuum, sure, take a chance.

So you're saying he's not worth the $114 I bid for him in the auction ?