GRAVEMAN GOES BACK TO HOUSTON
The Houston Astros acquired pitcher Kendall Graveman from the Chicago White Sox for catcher Korey Lee.
What does it give the Houston Astros
Graveman, who last pitched in Houston during the 2021 season, returns for another playoff run. This season, he has posted a 3.48 ERA while striking out more than double the batters he has walked (42/20). With Rafael Montero and Seth Martinez struggling, Graveman could become one of the setup relievers for closer Ryan Pressly. Graveman has another year remaining on his contract, so he is not a pure rental.
What does it give the Chicago White Sox
The White Sox continue selling off assets, and have dealt yet another pitcher. Lee was drafted in the first round of the 2019 MLB draft. Now 25, he is still looking for his first real shot to prove himself in Major League Baseball. He should get that chance as early as this season with the White Sox after a productive year in Triple-A ball (.283, 5 HR, 32 RBI, 12 steals in 68 games). Chicago is adding a lot of future assets.
Fantasy impact
Graveman was part of a closer-by-committee approach in Chicago, but he will not see as many save opportunities behind Pressly in Houston. That could limit his fantasy value. Lee might now be considered the White Sox' catcher of the future. With his power/speed combination, he could be a catcher of the future for many keeper-league owners, too. Make sure he takes advantage of his opportunity before committing to him.
