David Buchanan

Buchanan entered last season looking to build on his solid 2014 season, but he got off to a rough start and found himself back in the minors by the beginning of May. He then missed nearly two months recovering from a severe ankle sprain before returning to action in July. The Phillies gave him another opportunity but he struggled again and was sent back to the minors. He was recalled in September to give the Phillies another innings eater as they looked to reduce the workload of their younger starters. Buchanan's ratios last season were essentially the same as in 2014, but he was much more hittable. He also did not maintain his success against lefties. In 2014, he held them to a .227 average, but last season lefties hit .353 off him with eight home runs. Buchanan will have an outside shot at winning a rotation spot this spring, but is more likely to serve as an occasional spot starter. He is of minimal interest in fantasy leagues.

Buchanan was passed over by every team in the majors last winter when he was left available for selection in the Rule 5 draft. The Phillies lucked out, as Buchanan seized an opportunity when injuries struck and made 20 starts for a team with limited starting rotation depth. Buchanan does not have an overpowering fastball and instead relies on his sinker and cutter to generate groundballs. That approach leaves him prone to the occasional blow up, but as he showed last season, he can also be fairly effective. The Phillies will have at least a couple rotation spots open this spring and Buchanan will be a heavy favorite to earn a spot based on his performance last season.

Drafted in 2009 by the Mets but did not sign.