34 Homer Bailey SP

Bailey (6-9) shut the Brewers out over seven innings Wednesday, striking out four while allowing four hits and three walks in a 6-0 win.

That's a nice way for Bailey to close out 2017, but it doesn't add a whole lot of shine to a brutal campaign that he finishes with a 6.43 ERA and 1.69 WHIP over 18 starts. Although Bailey's come back with more or less his old velocity, you can't say the same about his general effectiveness. His 6.6 K/9 this season represents his worst mark in any year that's seen him make double-digit starts, and his 4.2 BB/9 is his worst since his rookie season. On the bright side, a healthy offseason will be good for him as he tries to put his career-derailing injuries further in the rearview mirror heading into next year.

Bailey (5-9) allowed four runs on seven hits and two walks while striking out three batters through only three innings to take the loss to St. Louis on Thursday.

Bailey has flashed signs this season and allowed two runs or fewer in eight of his 17 starts. However, there have also been too many poor showings, and the 31-year-old righty sports a 6.96 ERA, 1.75 WHIP and 6.8 K/9 for the campaign. His inconsistency has been a fantasy nightmare, and his year-long numbers don't move the needle in any setting. Bailey lines up to make one more start against the Brewers at Miller Park.

Bailey (5-8) allowed one run on five hits and two walks while striking out seven over 5.2 innings to earn the win Friday against the Pirates.

Bailey held the Pirates bats in check while benefiting from four solo homers, as he left the contest with a 4-1 lead hison his way to earning fifth victory of the season. Although he'll have the occasional solid outing, his 6.86 ERA makes him a player who's extremely risky to use in the fantasy playoffs. He'll make his next start Thursday against the Cardinals.

Bailey (4-8) allowed five runs on six hits and three walks while striking out five across six innings to take the loss Saturday against the Mets.

Bailey went into the sixth inning with a 2-1 deficit before allowing one run in the sixth and two more in the seventh, leading to his eighth defeat of the campaign. This was the first time in three outings that he failed to post a quality start, and although he has a 7.26 ERA, he could be a useful fantasy option based on matchups. He'll make his next start Friday against the Pirates.

Bailey allowed three runs on six hits while striking out four batters over six innings Monday against the Brewers. He didn't factor into the decision.

Bailey has now put together two consecutive quality starts, though he's compiled just five strikeouts over 12 innings during that span. The 31-year-old owns a 7.24 ERA through 14 starts this season, and his inconsistency coupled with his low upside make him an unappealing option down the stretch. He's scheduled to make his next start against the Mets on Saturday.