Twitter: @RobShawSports and @BloombergSports

 

In 2003, the Padres owned the fourth pick of the MLB Draft.  The franchise had its choice of a few top prospects including John Danks, Nick Markakis, and Chad Billingsley.  Instead, San Diego opted for Tim Stauffer, a right-hander out of Richmond.

 

Stauffer struggled early in his professional career, however, in 2009 he broke out with a 1.85 ERA in 82.2 innings of work as a spot-starter and long-reliever.  As a result of the fine performance, Stauffer enjoyed a promotion the following year to a full-time starter.  Stauffer picked up 9 wins with a 3.73 ERA and 1.25 WHIP.  Of course PETCO Field played its role, as he was 6-5 at home with a 2.57 ERA and 1.13 WHIP.

 

The 29-year-old right-hander showed some wear and tear in August, as his strikeouts declined and his home runs soared.  After missing the first month and a half of the 2012 season due to a strained elbow, Stauffer made his season debut on Monday.  Against the Nationals, the Padres hurler fanned five batters in five innings of work.  He was a tad wild and bit too hittable as he came away with a no-decision.

 

Stauffer returns to PETCO this weekend for an Interleague match-up with the Angels.  Fantasy managers should consider the veteran as a solid platoon option worth starting every time he takes the hill in San Diego even though a lack of run support will limit his ability to pick up wins.

 

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