Ober's status as an anchor at the top of the rotation is in question after a subpar season. He began last season looking like his prior three years with a 3.48 ERA and 50:14 K:BB ratio in his first 62 innings. He then fell apart in June by giving up 30 ER and 14 HR in 30 IP in five starts (all losses). He may have been pitching hurt as he then missed July with a left hip impingement. He wasn't much better when he returned with a 4.80 ERA in his final ten starts. Ober had a sharp decline in velocity to a 90.3 mph average fastball from 91.8 mph in 2024. His strikeout rate tanked to 19.2% from 26.9% in 2024 as a result. His home runs allowed also increased to 1.85/9 from 1.37/9 in 2024. Ober doesn't have overpowering stuff, but it's offset by his outstanding control (5.0% BB%) and superb change-up (.262 wOBA allowed). If healthy this spring and showing an uptick in velocity, he could have a bounceback season. Read Past Outlooks