Biographical

Portrait of Neftalí Feliz

Neftalí Feliz PDodgers

Dodgers Player Cards | Dodgers Team Audit | Dodgers Depth Chart

2019 Projections (Preseason PECOTA - seasonal age 31)
IP ERA WHIP SO W L SV WARP
72.7 4.91 1.40 66 3 2 3 -0.5
Birth Date5-2-1988
Height6' 3"
Weight235 lbs
Age35 years, 10 months, 27 days
BatsR
ThrowsR
-0.52015
0.62016
-0.82017
2018
-0.52019
proj
WARP Summary

MLB Statistics

Historical (past-seasons) WARP is now based on DRA..
cFIP and DRA are not available on a by-team basis and display as zeroes(0). See TOT line for season totals of these stats.
Multiple stints are are currently shownClick to hide.
YEAR Team Lg G GS IP W L SV H BB SO HR PPF H/9 BB/9 HR/9 K/9 GB% BABIP WHIP FIP ERA cFIP DRA DRA- WARP
2009 TEX MLB 20 0 31.0 1 0 2 13 8 39 2 106 3.8 2.3 0.6 11.3 0% .169 0.68 2.52 1.74 83 3.15 67.6 0.7
2010 TEX MLB 70 0 69.3 4 3 40 43 18 71 5 115 5.6 2.3 0.6 9.2 0% .224 0.88 2.93 2.73 101 3.55 80.2 1.1
2011 TEX MLB 64 0 62.3 2 3 32 42 30 54 4 112 6.1 4.3 0.6 7.8 0% .232 1.16 3.60 2.74 110 4.19 97.4 0.4
2012 TEX MLB 8 7 42.7 3 1 0 28 23 37 5 108 5.9 4.9 1.1 7.8 0% .213 1.20 4.59 3.16 123 6.30 144.5 -0.6
2013 TEX MLB 6 0 4.7 0 0 0 5 2 4 0 98 9.6 3.9 0.0 7.7 0% .357 1.50 3.28 0.00 103 4.58 109.7 0.0
2014 TEX MLB 30 0 31.7 2 1 13 20 11 21 5 99 5.7 3.1 1.4 6.0 0% .177 0.98 4.93 1.99 125 5.42 132.9 -0.4
2015 DET 0 30 0 28.3 2 2 4 33 9 23 3 107 10.5 2.9 1.0 7.3 0% .353 1.48 3.91 7.62 111 5.63 131.5 -0.3
2015 TEX 0 18 0 19.7 1 2 6 24 9 16 2 108 11.0 4.1 0.9 7.3 0% .344 1.68 4.17 4.58 114 5.39 125.9 -0.2
2016 PIT MLB 62 0 53.7 4 2 2 40 21 61 10 94 6.7 3.5 1.7 10.2 39% .240 1.14 4.56 3.52 95 3.97 87.8 0.6
2017 KCA 0 20 0 19.0 1 0 0 17 8 16 1 8.1 3.8 0.5 7.6 38% .291 1.32 3.56 4.74 105 5.37 114.3 0.0
2017 MIL 0 29 0 27.0 1 5 8 23 15 21 8 7.7 5.0 2.7 7.0 35% .211 1.41 7.14 6.00 124 7.52 160.1 -0.7
2015 TOT MLB 48 0 48.0 3 4 10 57 18 39 5 108 10.7 3.4 0.9 7.3 0% .000 1.56 4.01 6.38 113 5.53 129.2 -0.5
2017 TOT MLB 49 0 46.0 2 5 8 40 23 37 9 7.8 4.5 1.8 7.2 36% .246 1.37 5.66 5.48 116 6.63 141.2 -0.8
CareerMLB3577389.3211910728815436345946.73.61.08.436%.2231.144.033.491084.75107.90.7

Statistics for All Levels

'opp' stats - Quality of opponents faced - have been moved and are available only as OPP_QUAL in the Statistics reports now.
Minor league stats are currently shownClick to hide.
YEAR Team Lg LG G GS IP W L SV H BB SO HR PPF H/9 BB/9 HR/9 K/9 GB% BABIP WHIP FIP ERA cFIP DRA DRA-
2006 BRA Rk GCL 11 5 29.1 0 2 2 20 14 42 0 100 6.2 4.3 0.0 13.0 0% .323 1.17 1.97 4.02 78 2.55 53.4
2007 SPO A- NWN 8 1 15.0 0 2 0 13 12 27 2 107 7.8 7.2 1.2 16.2 0% .379 1.67 4.40 3.60 96 5.44 111.6
2007 DNV Rk APL 8 7 27.3 2 0 0 18 12 28 0 99 5.9 4.0 0.0 9.2 0% .269 1.10 3.02 1.98 90 2.64 54.1
2008 CLN A MDW 17 17 82.0 6 3 0 55 28 106 2 101 6.0 3.1 0.2 11.6 0% .291 1.01 2.23 2.52 73 2.91 59.4
2008 FRI AA TXS 10 10 45.3 4 3 0 34 23 47 1 86 6.8 4.6 0.2 9.3 0% .295 1.26 3.19 2.98 74 2.84 58.2
2009 TEX MLB AL 20 0 31.0 1 0 2 13 8 39 2 106 3.8 2.3 0.6 11.3 0% .169 0.68 2.52 1.74 83 3.15 67.6
2009 OKL AAA PCL 25 13 77.3 4 6 0 69 30 75 2 86 8.0 3.5 0.2 8.7 0% .315 1.28 3.12 3.49 79 3.55 74.7
2010 TEX MLB AL 70 0 69.3 4 3 40 43 18 71 5 115 5.6 2.3 0.6 9.2 0% .224 0.88 2.93 2.73 101 3.55 80.2
2011 TEX MLB AL 64 0 62.3 2 3 32 42 30 54 4 112 6.1 4.3 0.6 7.8 0% .232 1.16 3.60 2.74 110 4.19 97.4
2011 FRI AA TEX 1 1 1.0 0 0 0 1 0 3 0 102 9.0 0.0 0.0 27.0 0% 1.000 1.00 -2.63 0.00 46 3.56 72.7
2012 TEX MLB AL 8 7 42.7 3 1 0 28 23 37 5 108 5.9 4.9 1.1 7.8 0% .213 1.20 4.59 3.16 123 6.30 144.5
2012 FRI AA TEX 1 1 2.0 0 1 0 1 2 4 0 94 4.5 9.0 0.0 18.0 0% .333 1.50 2.27 0.00 69 3.31 69.0
2012 ROU AAA PCL 2 2 4.7 0 1 0 4 3 4 0 89 7.7 5.8 0.0 7.7 0% .267 1.50 4.51 1.93 102 4.38 91.2
2013 TEX MLB AL 6 0 4.7 0 0 0 5 2 4 0 98 9.6 3.9 0.0 7.7 0% .357 1.50 3.28 0.00 103 4.58 109.7
2013 ROU AAA PCL 6 0 8.7 0 0 0 4 2 9 0 4.2 2.1 0.0 9.3 0% .191 0.69 2.18 0.00 81 2.14 46.6
2013 RNG Rk AZL 2 1 2.0 0 0 0 1 2 4 0 87 4.5 9.0 0.0 18.0 0% .500 1.50 3.00 0.00 79 0.79 17.3
2014 TEX MLB AL 30 0 31.7 2 1 13 20 11 21 5 99 5.7 3.1 1.4 6.0 0% .177 0.98 4.93 1.99 125 5.42 132.9
2014 ROU AAA PCL 24 0 28.7 1 1 7 19 8 31 6 6.0 2.5 1.9 9.7 0% .203 0.94 5.19 3.14 111 3.34 70.7
2015 DET MLB AL 30 0 28.3 2 2 4 33 9 23 3 107 10.5 2.9 1.0 7.3 0% .353 1.48 3.91 7.62 111 5.63 131.5
2015 TEX MLB AL 18 0 19.7 1 2 6 24 9 16 2 108 11.0 4.1 0.9 7.3 0% .344 1.68 4.17 4.58 114 5.39 125.9
2015 ROU AAA PCL 10 0 11.0 0 1 0 15 4 11 1 12.3 3.3 0.8 9.0 0% .368 1.73 4.14 7.36 93 4.82 105.8
2016 PIT MLB NL 62 0 53.7 4 2 2 40 21 61 10 94 6.7 3.5 1.7 10.2 39% .240 1.14 4.56 3.52 95 3.97 87.8
2017 KCA MLB AL 20 0 19.0 1 0 0 17 8 16 1 8.1 3.8 0.5 7.6 38% .291 1.32 3.56 4.74 105 5.37 114.3
2017 MIL MLB NL 29 0 27.0 1 5 8 23 15 21 8 7.7 5.0 2.7 7.0 35% .211 1.41 7.14 6.00 124 7.52 160.1
2018 RNO AAA PCL 37 12 91.7 6 5 2 85 54 75 9 113 8.3 5.3 0.9 7.4 39% .289 1.52 5.34 4.81 114 4.59 97.0
2018 ESC Wnt DWL 4 4 21.7 1 1 0 19 4 14 0 95 7.9 1.7 0.0 5.8 0% .279 1.06 2.20 1.25 0 0.00 0.0

Plate Discipline

YEAR Pits Zone% Swing% Contact% Z-Swing% O-Swing% Z-Contact% O-Contact% SwStr%
2009 501 0.4731 0.4691 0.7574 0.6329 0.3220 0.8333 0.6235 0.2426
2010 1022 0.4902 0.4873 0.7289 0.6507 0.3301 0.7914 0.6105 0.2711
2011 1037 0.5217 0.4446 0.7267 0.6285 0.2440 0.7412 0.6860 0.2733
2012 737 0.4735 0.4478 0.7697 0.6390 0.2758 0.7982 0.7103 0.2303
2013 107 0.5327 0.4673 0.8000 0.6842 0.2200 0.8974 0.4545 0.2000
2014 482 0.5187 0.4793 0.7749 0.6400 0.3060 0.8313 0.6479 0.2251
2015 816 0.5270 0.5037 0.7689 0.7140 0.2694 0.8143 0.6346 0.2311
2016 931 0.5081 0.5220 0.6914 0.7167 0.3210 0.7552 0.5442 0.3086
2017 853 0.5135 0.4889 0.7482 0.6826 0.2843 0.7926 0.6356 0.2518
Career64860.50510.48090.74220.66580.29100.78990.63190.2578

Injury History  —  No longer being updated

Last Update: 12/31/2014 23:59 ET

Date On Date Off Transaction Days Games Side Body Part Injury Severity Surgery Date Reaggravation
2014-04-17 2014-05-13 Minors 26 0 - Not Disclosed - -
2013-03-24 2013-09-01 60-DL 161 135 Right Elbow Recovery From Surgery Tommy John Surgery 2012-08-01 -
2012-05-19 2012-10-06 60-DL 140 122 Right Elbow Surgery Tommy John Surgery 2012-08-01 -
2012-05-13 2012-05-13 DTD 0 0 Right Elbow Soreness - -
2011-04-21 2011-05-06 15-DL 15 14 Right Shoulder Inflammation -
2011-03-04 2011-03-09 Camp 5 0 Left Lower Leg Contusion Shin From Batted Ball -
2009-05-04 2009-05-14 Minors 10 0 Right Shoulder Soreness -

Compensation

Year Team Salary
2021 LAN $
2019 SEA $
2018 ARI $
2017 MIL $5,350,000
2016 PIT $3,900,000
2015 TEX $4,125,000
2014 TEX $3,000,000
2013 TEX $2,900,000
2012 TEX $502,000
2011 TEX $457,160
2010 TEX $402,000
YearsDescriptionSalary
8 yrPrevious$20,636,160
8 yrTotal$20,636,160

 

Service TimeAgentContract Status
7 y 156 dCalifornia Sports Mgmt1 year (2021)

Details
  • 1 year (2021). Signed by Philadelphia as a free agent 12/20 (minor-league contract). Contract selected by Philadelphia 6/25/21. DFA by Philadelphia 7/1/21. Sent outright to Triple-A (refused assignment, elected free agency). Signed by LA Dodgers as a free agent 7/6/21 (minor-league contract). Contract selected by LA Dodgers 8/16/21. DFA by LA Dodgers 8/24/21. Sent outright to Triple-A 8/27/21. Contract selected by LA Dodgers 9/6/21. DFA by LA Dodgers 9/9/21. Sent outright to Triple-A 9/11/21. Elected free agency 10/14/21.
  • 2020. Aguilas Cibaeas of the Dominican Republic.
  • 2019. Leones del Escogido of the Dominican Republic.
  • 1 year (2018). Signed by Arizona as a free agent 1/29/18 (minor-league contract).
  • 1 year/$5.35M (2017). Signed by Milwaukee as a free agent 1/20/17. Performance bonuses: $75,000 each for 64, 68, 72, 76 games as a pitcher. $250,000 each for 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 games finished. DFA by Milwaukee 6/14/17. Released by Milwaukee 6/19/17. Signed by Kansas City as a free agent 6/23/17 (Royals pay $295,273, a pro-rated share of minimum salary, with Brewers paying balance on contract). Released by Kansas City 9/1/17.
  • 1 year/$3.9M (2016). Signed by Pittsburgh as a free agent 1/16. May earn additional $0.6M in performance bonuses: $30,000 each for 40, 44, 48, 52, 56, 60, 64, 68, 72 relief appearances. $50,000 each for 35, 40, 45, 50, 55 games finished.
  • 1 year/$4.125M (2015). Re-signed by Texas 1/15/15 (avoided arbitration). DFA by Texas 7/4/15 (refused assignment 7/10/15). Signed by Detroit as a free agent 7/11/15. Non-tendered by Detroit 12/2/15.
  • 1 year/$3M (2014). Re-signed by Texas 1/17/14 (avoided arbitration). Performance bonuses.
  • 1 year/$2.9M (2013). Re-signed by Texas 1/17/13 (avoided arbitration). May earn additional $50,000 in performance bonuses based on appearances.
  • 1 year/$502,000 (2012). Re-signed by Texas 2/27/12.
  • 1 year/$457,160 (2011). Re-signed by Texas 2/17/11.
  • 1 year/$402,000 (2010). Re-signed by Texas 2/24/10.
  • 1 year (2009). Contract purchased by Texas 8/2/09. Acquired by Texas in trade from Atlanta 7/31/07 (Mark Teixeira deal).
  • Signed by Atlanta 2005 as amateur free agent from the Dominican Republic. $100,000 signing bonus.

2019 Preseason Forecast

Last Update: 1/27/2017 12:35 ET

PCT W L SV G GS IP H BB SO HR BABIP WHIP ERA DRA VORP WARP
90o 0 4.2 4.1 68 5 88.2 66 39 77 11 .237 1.19 3.93 4.31 -12.0 -1.3
80o 0 3.9 3.7 63 5 81.6 66 38 72 11 .250 1.28 4.34 4.77 -15.1 -1.6
70o 0 3.7 3.4 59 5 77.0 65 38 68 11 .260 1.35 4.64 5.1 -17.0 -1.8
60o 0 3.5 3.1 56 4 73.1 65 38 64 11 .268 1.41 4.91 5.39 -18.3 -2.0
50o 0 3.4 2.9 54 4 69.6 64 38 61 11 .276 1.46 5.16 5.67 -19.5 -2.1
40o 0 3.2 2.7 51 4 66.1 63 37 58 10 .284 1.52 5.41 5.95 -20.5 -2.2
30o 0 3.1 2.4 48 4 62.4 62 37 55 10 .292 1.59 5.69 6.25 -21.4 -2.3
20o 0 2.9 2.2 45 3 58.3 61 36 51 10 .302 1.66 6.02 6.62 -22.2 -2.4
10o 0 2.6 1.9 41 3 52.7 59 35 46 10 .316 1.78 6.49 7.14 -23.0 -2.5
Weighted Mean03.42.953469.063376110.2741.455.125.63-19.1-2.1

Preseason Long-Term Forecast (Beyond the 2019 Projections)

Playing time estimates are based on performance, not Depth Charts.
Year Age W L SV G GS IP H BB SO HR GB% BABIP WHIP ERA DRA H/9 BB/9 K/9 HR/9 WARP
20203232244357492950839.2821.374.955.707.74.67.91.3-0.4
20213322240352452646739.2871.374.765.497.84.58.01.2-0.3
20223422240352452647839.2851.364.905.657.74.58.11.4-0.4
20233521233244392239639.2891.404.875.618.04.58.01.2-0.3
20243621231241362137639.2901.394.895.647.94.68.11.3-0.3
20253721230240352035639.2881.394.895.637.94.57.91.4-0.3
20263821229239341934639.2901.374.895.637.94.47.91.4-0.3
20273921228237331933639.2891.394.955.708.04.68.01.4-0.3
20284021229238341934639.2891.384.995.758.04.58.01.4-0.3

Comparable Players (Similarity Index 77)

Rank Score Name Year Run Average Trend
1 88 Vladimir Nunez 2006 0.00 DNP
2 86 Tyler Walker 2007 1.26
3 84 Angel Guzman 2013 0.00 DNP
4 83 John Foster 2009 0.00 DNP
5 83 Scott Strickland 2007 0.00 DNP
6 83 Chris Resop 2014 0.00 DNP
7 82 Josh Edgin 2018 0.00 DNP
8 82 Brian Bruney 2013 0.00 DNP
9 81 Chad Harville 2008 0.00 DNP
10 81 Scott Proctor 2008 6.98
11 81 Pat Neshek 2012 1.37
12 81 Manny Acosta 2012 7.23
13 81 Kane Davis 2006 0.00 DNP
14 81 Chad Durbin 2009 4.91
15 80 Joel Peralta 2007 4.00
16 79 Jack Cressend 2006 0.00 DNP
17 79 Bobby Seay 2009 4.62
18 79 Julio Mateo 2009 0.00 DNP
19 79 Dave Borkowski 2008 7.50
20 79 Brandon Medders 2011 0.00 DNP
21 78 Doug Slaten 2011 5.51
22 78 Zach Miner 2013 4.40
23 78 Wesley Wright 2016 0.00 DNP
24 78 Willie Eyre 2010 0.00 DNP
25 78 Tim Corcoran 2009 0.00 DNP
26 78 Jeff Bennett 2011 0.00 DNP
27 78 Roman Colon 2011 0.00 DNP
28 77 Shawn Camp 2007 7.88
29 77 Darin Downs 2016 0.00 DNP
30 77 Adam Bernero 2008 0.00 DNP
31 77 Brian Stokes 2011 0.00 DNP
32 77 Jack Taschner 2009 5.52
33 77 Mark Corey 2006 0.00 DNP
34 77 Matt Perisho 2006 0.00 DNP
35 77 Luis Perez 2016 0.00 DNP
36 77 Tanner Scheppers 2018 0.00 DNP
37 77 Jeremy Accardo 2013 0.00 DNP
38 77 Fernando Abad 2017 3.50
39 77 Matt Thornton 2008 2.67
40 77 Manny Delcarmen 2013 0.00 DNP
41 76 Jon Adkins 2009 0.00 DNP
42 76 Aquilino Lopez 2006 0.00 DNP
43 76 David Carpenter 2017 0.00 DNP
44 76 Sam LeCure 2015 4.05
45 75 Brian Sanches 2010 2.97
46 75 Craig Breslow 2012 3.13
47 75 Mike Gallo 2008 0.00 DNP
48 75 Nick Regilio 2010 0.00 DNP
49 75 Greg Aquino 2009 4.50
50 75 Rich Hill 2011 0.00
51 75 Alfredo Aceves 2014 6.52
52 75 Jeff Fulchino 2011 5.71
53 75 Jesus Colome 2009 7.59
54 75 Victor Marte 2012 4.91
55 75 Jorge Sosa 2009 6.85
56 75 Brian Tallet 2009 5.55
57 75 Scott Dohmann 2009 0.00 DNP
58 75 Franklin Morales 2017 0.00 DNP
59 75 Chuck James 2013 0.00 DNP
60 75 Chris Jakubauskas 2010 27.00
61 75 Rick Bauer 2008 13.50
62 75 Cesar Ramos 2015 2.92
63 74 Casey Fien 2015 3.69
64 74 Travis Harper 2007 0.00 DNP
65 74 D.J. Carrasco 2008 3.72
66 74 Wes Stock 1965 5.60
67 74 James Russell 2017 0.00 DNP
68 74 Brandon Villafuerte 2007 0.00 DNP
69 74 Louis Coleman 2017 0.00 DNP
70 74 Randy Flores 2007 4.91
71 74 Frank Herrmann 2015 0.00 DNP
72 74 Chris Ray 2013 0.00 DNP
73 74 Blaine Neal 2009 0.00 DNP
74 74 Steve Bedrosian 1989 3.30
75 74 Geremi Gonzalez 2006 6.91
76 73 Justin Miller 2018 3.78
77 73 Don Robinson 1988 3.21
78 73 Mark Lowe 2014 9.00
79 73 David Elder 2007 0.00 DNP
80 73 Brad Lincoln 2016 0.00 DNP
81 73 Matt Lindstrom 2011 3.50
82 73 Brandon Puffer 2007 0.00 DNP
83 73 Vinnie Chulk 2010 0.00 DNP
84 73 Brad Ziegler 2011 3.24
85 73 Manny Corpas 2014 0.00 DNP
86 73 Jairo Asencio 2014 0.00 DNP
87 73 Jim Poole 1997 8.21
88 73 Jim Miller 2013 20.25
89 73 Craig Stammen 2015 0.00
90 73 Tyler Yates 2009 9.00
91 73 Ricky Stone 2006 0.00 DNP
92 73 Joe Hoerner 1968 1.65
93 72 Jay Ritchie 1968 5.08
94 72 Don Elston 1960 4.01
95 72 Don Aase 1986 3.20
96 72 Jeff Brantley 1995 2.82
97 72 Chris Leroux 2015 0.00 DNP
98 72 Todd Redmond 2016 0.00 DNP
99 72 Lou Pote 2003 0.00 DNP
100 72 Tim Scott 1998 0.00 DNP

BP Annual Player Comments

YearComment
2018 The Brewers' attempt to build up the former All-Star closer's value did not work. The strikeout rate uptick from 2016 didn't hold, while the control problems very much did. Still, despite seemingly being around forever, Feliz won't turn 30 years old until May and still has that golden ticket known as velocity. If you just muttered "eh, I can work with that," you might be a pitching coach. Feliz has the third-most saves (72) in baseball history through age 23, but now seems unlikely to reach even double that number for his career.
2017 Somehow, Feliz is still just 29. Last season was a good one for Feliz, who posted the second-best strikeout rate and third-best DRA of his career. Better yet, the former Rookie of the Year technically avoided the DL all season, though his last appearance came on September 3, when he was sidelined with a vague “arm injury.” That’s part of the inherent risk of signing Feliz, but he proved that he still has the talent to pitch late in games.
2016 When someone with a legendary fastball can't throw said fastball anymore, you just want to reach out and hug the guy. That's Feliz: Concerns about his velocity cost him his closer's role in Texas and eventually his roster spot. The Tigers picked him up because that's what the Tigers do with cheap free-agent relievers. The fastball played up to 98 on occasion, but Feliz had difficulty reaching into his bag of tricks and always finding the really fast fastball. Sometimes he came up with a rabbit or a whoopee cushion, though more often it was just a lesser fastball. He needs to donate the rabbits and the slow fastballs to a shelter or he'll keep bounding around teams, looking for that hug.
2015 Having made just 14 appearances in the prior two seasons, Feliz came into 2014 with something to prove; during the first three months of the season, he either completely failed to prove it or had a different idea of what he was trying to prove than the rest of us. After losing a battle for a roster spot in the spring, he didn't even get his first Triple-A save until June. When he arrived in Texas at the outset of July, he was a wisp of a shell of his diminished self. In three of his first six outings, he did not even reach 93 mph with his fastball, a stark change from the pitcher who averaged 91 with his changeup in July 2011. But a funny thing happened on the way to irrelevance: Feliz got better. He stopped allowing home runs. He started throwing harder (96 mph fastball in September). The old Neftali had returned. The Rangers, who have no obvious internal alternative to close games, will be hoping he's back for good.
2014 It's been two lost seasons for Feliz, who was moved to the rotation and got a handful of starts under his belt in 2012 before being shelved for Tommy John surgery; the recovery cost him most of last year as well. There's reason to believe that Feliz's ligament problems predated 2012, as he didn't flash the same stuff and command in 2011 that wowed onlookers his first two years in the league. The Rangers are resettling Feliz in the bullpen in 2014, and with Joe Nathan departing he will vie (against stiff competition) for the closer's job. As is, the Rangers have burned four years of his service time on 210 innings.
2013 The owner of a true 80-grade fastball, Feliz transitioned from closer to starting pitcher in 2012 before injuring his elbow in May and undergoing Tommy John surgery nearly three months later. His seven-start stint prior to the injury was erratic, as his command and secondary stuff ranged from above-average to poor. The fireballing Dominican has the pure talent to excel in a starting role, but hell need to continue refining his slider and changeup while learning to pace his fastball velocity. Even if the Rangers still view Feliz as a starter long-term, the club may choose to use him out of the bullpen for the short term upon his expected return in mid-2013.
2012 After two years in the closers chair, flame-throwing righty Neftali Feliz is moving (back) into the rotation in 2012. Heard that before? This time its actually going forward, with Joe Nathan brought in to secure the ninth. Having lived on the back of an 80-grade fastball in the pen, Feliz will need to rediscover his pace in the rotation, re-learning the nuances of velocity manipulation and pitch sequence. Felizs secondary arsenal has stagnated somewhat, but his slider and changeup both have qualities that will play nicely in a rotational role. The total package might take some developmental dips before we see some positive production, but the patience will be well worth it, given Felizs ultimate ceiling as a starter.
2011 The debate about Felizs future role continues to fill up blog posts and comment sections the internet over, but the Dominican flamethrower has a very bright future with the Rangers, regardless of his duties. After a meteoric rise from Double-A to the majors in 2009, the 22-year-old made the transition from set-up man to closer, breaking the rookie save record along the way. On the back of his 80-grade fastball, Feliz overpowered major-league hitters, missing bats without missing his spots, as evidenced by his acceptable 2.3 walks per nine innings. Shoving a once promising changeup in his back pocket, Feliz became more of a two-pitch power arm, throwing his heater 80 percent of the time and enlisting a plus curveball as his main secondary offering. Without further development of his changeup or enhanced application of his curveball, its hard to envision Feliz making a smooth transition back into a starting role in the immediate future, which limits his value to the team.
2010 Feliz wasn't living up to the high expectations set for him at Triple-A over the first two months of the year, but with the Rangers kinda-sorta in contention and needing bullpen help, they converted him to relief, andvoila! A star is born. Sitting at 94-98 mph with his fastball and touching triple digits on several occasions, Felix held American League hitters to a minuscule .124 batting average in his 20-game big-league debut, while limiting righties to a remarkable 4-for-47 (.085) mark with 21 strikeouts. The new, "nice problem to have" situation is that the Rangers now have a bit of a Joba Chamberlain situation here. Feliz was just so darn good in the bullpen, but he's been raised as a starter, and if he can bring that stuff to the rotation, just imagine what he could be. As the Yankees have learned, that doesn't always work out so well, and the Rangers themselves aren't quite sure what the answer is themselves.
2009 Prior to the 2007 season, we ranked Feliz as the third-best prospect in the Braves system, and people scoffed. Last year we had Feliz atop a talented Rangers system, and the laughter continued. And then, golly, this year everybody has him at the top of their lists. Go figure. Despite the high expectations, Feliz' full-season debut actually exceeded them, as he made the two-level jump to Double-A without missing a beat. The upper-90s fastball was always there, but Feliz made tremendous progress on his power breaking ball and suddenly big league-quality changeup in 2008, now looking like a complete pitcher with true ace potential. He's moving very quickly, and should be in line for a September call-up at the very least. Who knows, you may even have heard it here first.
2008 Feliz was probably not the best-known prospect received from Atlanta in the Teixeira trade, but he might prove to be the best. As a 19-year-old who already pumps out fastballs in the upper 90s, Feliz has recorded 97 strikeouts while allowing just 51 hits in 71 1/3 innings as a pro, and (pardon the mangled metaphor) his ceiling is through the roof. He still needs better command and a more consistent slider, but the number of teenage arms with this kind of upside can be counted on one hand.
2007 Neftali Feliz is a Dominican import who can hit 98 on any gun, and just put the fear of sweet Jeebus into the Gulf Coast League.

BP Articles

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BP Chats

DateQuestionAnswer
2019-08-23 15:30:00 (link to chat)Does Hans Crouse has the ability to stick in the rotation? Hearing a lot of "head-whack" and "violent" mechanical slights towards him, but having 4 pitches and decent control seems like a good recipe for a starter. I'm having a hard time trying to pin down his future role.
(Jon Daniels from Arlington, TX)
You're not alone! It's an interesting cocktail of mechanics, stuff, and precision. It's easy to understand when you watch him why some relegate him to the reliever bin, but I do think he'll get a healthy chance to start because baseball is _generally_ more accommodating to various mechanics as long as the results are there, these days. They might also work with him to reduce those elements as long as they don't impact the quality of the stuff. I think he can rise through most of the minors as a starter but where he breaks in might depend on team need. I thought Neftali Feliz could start but once he landed in the bullpen, he preferred it there and mostly stayed there. (Craig Goldstein)
2017-03-29 14:00:00 (link to chat)In a league that does not value strikeouts, who are the best bets to close most of the season in Miami, Arizona and Milwaukee?
(Chopper from Indy)
I'm most confident here in Milwaukee, because I actually believe in the strides Neftali Feliz has made (or at least has been reported to have made) in his velocity. I have some shares of AJ Ramos so it pains me to admit that it's likely Kyle Barraclough overcomes him if he even has half of his last year's season, but I think they split the share of saves pretty evenly.

I completely hate the bullpen situation in Arizona and would not want any part of it, so I'll make a bold prediction here. I think Fernando Rodney doesn't really latch on in any real way and that Jake Barrett (while the natural choice to take over as closer) is passed over in favor of Archie Bradley, who becomes a bullpen ace and a top 5 NL closer. (Trevor Strunk)
2016-12-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)What would you do if you next if you were running the Mets? (Assume a Mets-reasonable payroll applies.)
(Bryan G. from Michigan)
Bruce has to go in the next week or so. If there is any truth to the Pompey thing, I'd make that move as it gives the Mets a skill set they don't really have anywhere in the system (Champ Stuart doesn't count) and there's still some upside left in the profile.

I'd like to get a Bartolo type, but they don't really have a guaranteed rotation spot for him (even if Wheeler moves to the pen in the near-term as rumored), but I suspect by June they will be lamenting not having a steady 180-inning arm on the roster. So I guess I'd grab like Tommy Milone as a priority NRI. Then take flyers on Daniel Hudson and Neftali Feliz.

And because it is me, and I am a self-indulgent man, sign Yusmeiro Petit. (Jeffrey Paternostro)
2017-01-18 20:00:00 (link to chat)Is Neftali Feliz the Brewers closer this year?
(Captain America from America, duh)
Yea, I think so. (Bret Sayre)
2016-04-21 19:00:00 (link to chat)Have one slot available to go dumpster diving for future saves. Who would you pickup: Andrew Bailey or Caleb Cotham? Any other dark horses you like out there? Cheers
(Red Phil from Closer to you)
I took Bailey in the one 12-team mixed I do, but this is because it's first come/first serve and Cotham was gone. I like Cotham better. The free agent pool in all of my leagues looks pretty dire, and most of the alluring names have already been taken. You can try Neftali Feliz if he's there, even though I believe in Mark Melancon and think he'll be fine. (Mike Gianella)
2014-07-24 19:00:00 (link to chat) As you probably know Corey Knebel just got traded to the Texas Rangers. Is he still worth stashing on my dynasty team in the hopes he becomes a closer? Detroit drafted him with the idea that he could close eventually or at least that the word they were putting out there. He had an excellent reputation as a college closer. Who is going to get saves now in Texas? Neil Cotts? Neftali Feliz? Will the Rangers seek a 'name' closer in the off season?
(Shoeless Joe from Wisconsin)
I think he's worth the long play given Feliz's health track record and Knebel's ability (that's a real damn hammer) but I would be quick on the trigger to cut him if you need a piece. Closers are the most fungible fantasy asset. (Mauricio Rubio)
2014-03-14 09:00:00 (link to chat)Hey Mike, love the position rankings and appreciate them coming out early this year. Since some have been out a while are there any rankings that you would really like to change based on something you've seen in the Spring (like an injury perhaps)? Thanks.
(DanDaMan from Sea Cliff)
Hi Dan.

I reflect the changes in my bid limits that I update every week (including today! http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=23036). Today, I moved Joakim Soria up and Neftali Feliz down and moved Alexander Guerrero down and Dee Gordon up. Kris Medlen is out while Ervin Santana is in in the National League. Check out the rankings for all the latest movers and shakers. (Mike Gianella)
2014-03-03 13:00:00 (link to chat)What young pitcher had the best mechanics you saw? What would you rate it as?
(Gila Monster from Massachusetts)
Aaron Sanchez's release is one of the best I've seen, but I wouldn't say his mechanics (as a whole) are the best. My go-to answer is usually a young Neftali Feliz. He was upper-90s with no effort. It just exploded like he was playing catch. It was scary. It actually scared me because it was so easy. (Jason Parks on the Completed Prospect Rankings)
2014-01-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)Do you think Neftali Feliz closes in 2014?
(Gotribe31 from DC)
Not with consistency. I'd say fewer than 10 (Craig Goldstein)
2013-12-10 18:00:00 (link to chat)Who do you like to be the next closer for the Rangers?
(James from Arlington)
Barring a setback, it appears that it's going to be Neftali Feliz. He is pitching well in Winter League ball and it seems that the Rangers intend to make him the ninth inning man in 2014. (Mike Gianella)
2013-12-17 13:00:00 (link to chat)Enough with the radar! Who throws the liveliest fastball you ever saw? What prospects throw a heater that hops like IPA or bores like a weevil or dives like a duck in a river of whiskey or ... or ... ?
(CyMature from HardballHeaven)
Chapman's FB is the best I've ever seen. Watching a young Neftali Feliz pop 101 on the backfields still makes my "wrists" hurt. Ventura makes it move as well. (Jason Parks)
2013-09-26 13:00:00 (link to chat)Looking for saves in 2014, how many of these guys are capable/likely to grab 20+ saves next season: Trevor Rosenthal, David Robertson, Cody Allen, Jake McGee, Brian Wilson, Luke Gregerson, Pedro Strop, Drew Storen, Ryan Cook, Carlos Martinez, Vic Black, Joakim Soria, Neftali Feliz, Steve Delebar, Kelvin Herrera, Carter Capps, and/or AJ Ramos?
(J-Qwellin from Deplorable Future Leaders of America Club)
J-QWELLIN!!!! Interestingly enough, I'm working on such a piece re: 2014 closers. From your group, I'd go Rosy & D-Rob, but honestly any of them have the capability. I know that's a little copout-y, but that's the nature of the beast with relievers. (Paul Sporer)
2013-05-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)Do you think Neftali Feliz will be starting or closing in 2014?
(nubber from tx)
Closing, or in the bullpen somewhere. I think the starting thing is pretty much done. (Jason Cole)
2013-05-10 14:00:00 (link to chat)Probably a question best for a fantasy chat, but In a 20-team dynasty league: Giancarlo Stanton, Clayton Kershaw, and Patrick Corbin for Yu Darvish, Shelby Miller, Craig Kimbrel, Neftali Feliz, and Byron Buxton. Assuming the trade benefits the needs of both teams, which side would you rather have?
(Dr. Mike from Milwaukee)
Kershaw and Darvish are nearly a wash (maybe a slight edge to Kershaw), and it's hard to bank on Feliz, so it comes down to Giancarlo-Corbin for Miller-Kimbrel-Buxton. I love Kimbrel, but closers are risky business from a dynasty standpoint, and though I prefer Miller to Corbin by a decent measure, I don't think that Buxton bridges the gap to Giancarlo. I feel that prospects are extremely overvalued in dynasty formats, especially when compared to players like Stanton - Stanton is young enough to still qualify as a prospect and already one of the best players in the game, and his future will be even brighter once he escapes the island of misfit toys in Miami.

On the jukebox: Lagwagon, "Bury the Hatchet" (Doug Thorburn)
2013-04-16 20:00:00 (link to chat)How do I value Addison Reed if I just started a dynasty rebuild? I know closers should be the first thing to go in a rebuild, but I can't help but believe he's relatively stable and likely to help me when I compete again in 2-3 years. Thanks
(JoeTinker from Chicago)
Here is a list of all closers who recorded 25 or more saves in 2010: Brian Wilson (48), Heath Bell (47), Rafael Soriano (45), Joakim Soria (43), Matt Capps (42), Neftali Feliz (40), Francisco Cordero (40), Carlos Marmol (38), Billy Wagner (37), Jonathan Papelbon (37), Kevin Gregg (37), Mariano Rivera (33), David Aardsma (31), Juan Oviedo (30), Bobby Jenks (27), Ryan Franklin (27), Brad Lidge (27), Jose Valverde (26), Francisco Rodriguez (25) and Andrew Bailey (25). (Bret Sayre)
2013-04-04 11:00:00 (link to chat)What do you think Neftali Feliz's longterm role with the Rangers is?
(Lemmy from Alphaville)
Closer. (Jason Parks)
2013-02-15 12:00:00 (link to chat)To trade or to hold question. Ten team dynasty league 5x5. 15 keepers, 10 minors. First four rounds of picks returned to pool. Currently have Neftali Feliz and Joakim Soria. Should I hold them or try to trade either or both of them? Thank you.
(nictaclacta from Phoenix)
I'd deal both of them (Jason Collette)
2013-02-05 13:00:00 (link to chat)Does Chapman have the best fastball you've ever seen?
(Ed from Chicago)
Yes. I thought watching a young Neftali Feliz on the backfields would be tough to beat. Chapman crushes it. (Jason Parks)
2012-12-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)With Neftali Feliz going under the knife for TJS, what is his likelihood of continuing as a starter? It seems like he's destined for the 9th inning again, no?
(AJ from Phoenix)
Thanks for the question, AJ. It's hard to say what the future holds for Feliz, although he does seem better suited to the bullpen. I understand why teams want to maximize innings out of a guy like Feliz (or Aroldis Chapman in Cincinnati), but there is a real risk. Maybe letting a guy continue to excel in a role that he's already mastered isn't the worst idea. (Geoff Young)
2012-10-23 13:00:00 (link to chat)Who, in your opinion, has the biggest penis in baseball? My pick would be Derek Lee or CC. Sabathia, but I could see Neftali Feliz possessing a 80 grade wanger. Your thoughts?
(Bud Selig from New York NY)
I just thought this was funny. It seems so earnest, right? (Jason Parks)
2012-09-20 13:00:00 (link to chat)In your notes you frequently use the term "near elite" I understand that is there due to the obvious rarity of truly elite tools/pitches. What are some of the tools/pitches you've seen that you'd call truly elite?
(Klochner from MN)
Bill Hamilton's speed; Mike Trout's hit tool/speed tool/baseball tool; Neftali Feliz's fastball; everything Justin Verlander does; everything Miguel Cabrera does with the bat; Profar's instincts; Bryce Harper's raw power, etc. (Jason Parks)
2012-03-26 13:00:00 (link to chat)Who do you think will be the biggest bust this year, hitter and pitcher?
(dangor from New York)
Hard to top 2011 Jason Heyward for surprises, but I'll say Neftali Feliz as a pitcher. Jose Reyes as a hitter. (Sam Miller)
2012-02-14 13:00:00 (link to chat)Daniel Bard, Neftali Feliz, and Chris Sale are all moving from the 'pen to the rotation this season. Optimistic on the triumvirate, or should I have concerns (own them all in a keeper)?
(Mitch from cubicle 3s)
I'm actually fairly high on all three, especially if you have them cheap in a keeper league. They all have excellent numbers in relief (excepting Feliz's 2011) and could easily withstand the traditional 17% drop (as per Tom Tango's rule of thumb) of moving to the rotation. I also think each is well-equipped enough to make such a transition, each with at least three pitches to show batters. None should be counted on for high inning totals, but in terms of performance, I think they'll do about as well as you'd expect. (Derek Carty)
2012-02-02 15:00:00 (link to chat)I'm in a deep keeper league where I'm set up to contend this year. I could probably get Neftali Feliz in the first round of my draft, but I'm concerned about the transition year and the fact that he took a step back last season. How differently do you value him in annual vs. dynasty?
(Rob from Alaska)
Depends on who's available of course, but I'd value him as a #3 or #4 this year. He was successful in the minors as a starter, and has two plus pitches, so if his changeup becomes a useful weapon I think he'll be fine. Then it's just a matter of durability. (Cory Schwartz)
2012-01-12 13:00:00 (link to chat)Any guesses on how Feiz's move to the rotation goes. I'm hoping the regular routine will reduce his walk rate. He tends to walk the first batter, then find the srike zone out of the pen.
(johnsamo from Texas)
I'm in favor of moving Neftali Feliz to the rotation, and I expect he will be a success. His fastball is just so good. None of his curveball, slider, and changeup are outstanding pitches, but I suspect he'll find enough from one or two of those to make a go of it. I am guessing, though, that he'll learn to throw his curveball for strikes, which he hasn't done in limited work with it the last couple years, so maybe that's too optimistic of a prediction. (Mike Fast)
2012-01-12 13:00:00 (link to chat)Regarding Neftali Feliz and the Rangers pitching - do you think Texas would send him to AAA at the beginning of the season to refine his starting arsenal because they have too many starters? Or is Alexi Ogando going to have a more permanent role in the bullpen?
(jhardman from Apex, NC)
I don't know what the Rangers are going to do, and I haven't paid close attentions to the rumblings out of Arlington to know which way they are leaning. With Darvish slotting in for Wilson, do they still really have a surplus of starters? Darvish, Lewis, Holland, Harrison...okay so technically I suppose Ogando and Feliz don't both fit there, and maybe that means one of them has to start the year in the bullpen and thus can't easily be moved to the rotation mid-year. I don't have a strong opinion. (Mike Fast)
2012-01-30 13:00:00 (link to chat)Do you lend any credence to the thought Neftali Feliz is forever ruined because of game 6 of the 2011 WS?
(SDILincoln from Colorado)
No, I don't think I do. These reactions are so individualistic. Mark Wohlers was never the same after Jim Leyritz, but Mariano Rivera bounced back just fine from Sandy Alomar. There is nothing inevitable about Feliz's aftermath. (Steven Goldman)
2011-10-04 13:00:00 (link to chat)Professor, On my first sighting of Matt Moore on TV for Game 1, I thought he had the most relaxed throwing style for a 97mph fastball I've ever seen. Is it as effortless as it looks?
(Neil Carter from London)
Sure. It's very easy, and with his extension, the 97 looks even faster than that to the hitters. Neftali Feliz might have the easiest FB velocity I've ever seen, but Moore is in the discussion. (Jason Parks)
2011-10-04 13:00:00 (link to chat)Will Neftali Feliz start next year? Will he need time in AAA to develop his breaking stuff, or is he too valuable to send down?
(Or from Dallas)
I expect another spring training of speculation and consternation, and Feliz will once again end up back in the pen. Just a guess. (Jason Parks)
2011-08-26 16:00:00 (link to chat)What are you drinking? Aroyds Vizacaino . . . special talent, yes?
(Dianagram from Scrabble Central)
I'm drinking a Dasani lemon flavored water that was leftover from our draft room. It's not ideal, but it was free and it's got 0 calories.

Vizcaino is a special talent. I did an interview with the amazing Kevin Goldstein a few years back where we talked about Vizcaino as a latter-day version of Neftali Feliz. Both have effortless arm actions as well as swing-and-miss off speed stuff. The amazing thing about Vizcaino, at age 20, is how he has adapted to pitching in big situations during a pennant race at the ML level. Credit for that obviously should go to the player, but also to our entire staff from Braves pitching coach Roger McDowell to the pitching coaches in the minor leagues to guys like Johnny Almaraz who remained close with the player and pushed him to achieve success. Like pretty much everything here it's not one person -- or even a few -- responsible for success. (John Coppolella)
2011-07-21 13:00:00 (link to chat)What are the chances that Texas calls up Martin Perez to pitch out of the bullpen for the stretch run (esp. if they can't land another arm before the deadline)? Is that a stupid thing to do with a prized SP prospect, or a good way to get him ML experience w/ out torching his arm late in the year?
(MJ from Madison, Wis.)
Well, they did it with Neftali Feliz in '09. Jon Daniels has talked before about the "old school" nature of getting young pitchers feet wet in the bullpen. It's not far fetched at all, but I think they'll get an arm or two for the pen.

BTW, if they could get an impact starter, I wonder if they'd include Perez in a deal. They've said they won't move him for a reliever, but I would have to think that if a Jimenez (who I doubt gets moved, but Troy Renck still leaves chances at 20%) is available, they'd be willing to part with him. (Mike Ferrin)
2011-05-26 13:00:00 (link to chat)I drafted Alexi Ogando this season banking that he would be the closer in lieu of Neftali Feliz. Fortunately, when it was announced that Feliz would remain the closer, I kept Ogando and have been rewarded with outstanding performance from a SP. So the question is, should I expect this to keep up, or should I sell high on him? I'm concerned about a career high usage and him having to pitch in Arlington this summer. What are your thoughts?
(JoshC77 from Columbus, OH)
There were concerns about Oganda's ability to get lefties out entering the season, but he has fared really well against them so far (an OPS against just over 600). Nobody is going to keep a sub-2 ERA, but as long as he stays healthy, he should be a decent option heading forward.

You have to tip your cap to Texas on reliever-to-starter transitions too. Either they've gotten lucky a few times, or they know what's up. Maybe a bit of both. (R.J. Anderson)
2011-04-25 13:00:00 (link to chat)With Neftali Feliz hurt and the Rangers' bullpen in supposed shambles, would it be a good time to take a flier on Cody Eppley?
(jhardman from Apex - The Peak of Good Living)
I get the sense Texas will deal with Arthur Rhodes in the role in the short-term, but keeping an eye on Eppley is probably in your best interests in AL-only leagues. (Marc Normandin)
2011-02-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)Any concern that Neftali Feliz will get "Joba'd" or will he get a real shot at starting?
(Phil from NJ)
I hope he gets a real shot, I think that's where he should be and where he'd have more value to the Rangers. (Kevin Goldstein)
2011-02-28 13:00:00 (link to chat)Gut feel question: Since you hope Neftali Feliz joins the starting rotation for the Rangers, who then takes over their closer role?
(jhardman from Rangerland)
If I'm running the team? Scheppers in the long term. (Kevin Goldstein)
2011-02-22 13:00:00 (link to chat)What are the chances that Neftali Feliz starts for the Rangers this year? If he does, who closes? Does Scheppers get a serious look at some point this season?
(Sean from DC)
If he impresses this ST, Feliz has a good chance to start for the Rangers. I think he profiles better as a reliever (for 2011), but if it comes together for him and he shows enough stamina to maintain his stuff multiple times through the order, he has more value in the rotation than in the pen. I don't think he is there yet, but we shall see how it plays out during ST. I think Scheppers will move to the pen by the summer, at the latest. I don't see him as a starter. (Jason Parks)
2010-11-09 14:00:00 (link to chat)Dude...love the podcast! Does Neftali Feliz ever even get the CHANCE to start again? Or do they love him so much in the closer role that he's stuck there? Also, is that the route the Reds might take w/Chapman?
(Juan from Arlington)
I get this one a lot, and the answer is the same. I, personally, would like to see him start. The Rangers, as I understand it, do not necessarily agree with my personal assessment. I think Chapman has a better chance at getting an OPPORTUNITY to start again, at least. (Kevin Goldstein)
2010-11-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)Do you feel Cashner is better utilized in pen or rotation for the Cubs?
(Matt from Chicago)
Any pitcher who has value is better utilized in a starting rotation. I don't care if this is Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, Neftali Feliz, etc, because my opinion stays the same. Getting 165-200 innings of quality production is much more valuable than 55 innings. (Eric Seidman)
2010-09-29 13:00:00 (link to chat)Neftali Feliz closer or starter in 2011 with the presence of Scheppers?
(Jquinton82 from NY)
I'm sure the Rangers would love to get as many innings as possible out of Feliz, but the Rangers would need to see better results from Scheppers before letting him displace Feliz. So, I don't see a role change happening to start the year, but it's not out of the question down the road. (Ben Lindbergh)
2010-09-13 13:00:00 (link to chat)How filthy is Neftali Feliz? Fastball 96-99 Slider 80-83..When he throws his slider for strikes.. Watch out.
(Steve from VA)
Filthier than a pig doing a Redd Foxx imitation out at the Smut Hut on Highway 61. (Jay Jaffe)
2010-08-26 13:00:00 (link to chat)Hi Marc, thanks for the chat. I'm trying to pick 5 keepers from this bunch: Hellickson, Heyward, Stanton, Aroldis Chapman, Phil Hughes, Pedro Alvarez, Jesus Montero, Neftali Feliz, Lincecum...Should I try to corner the young pitching market with Hughes, Hellickson, Chapman, Lincecum, Feliz or are the 2 20-year old OFs more valuable?
(cbelford from Chicago)
In real life, you can never have too much pitching. But in fantasy, you need to bet on the sure thing more often, because the reason you can never have too much pitching is due to the volatility of the performances and concerns over injuries. I am much more comfortable keeping the two 20 year old outfielders and Pedro Alvarez than by going all pitching. Heyward, Stanton, Alvarez, Feliz, Lincecum would be my five from your group. If you can make a trade by packaging some of the others together, I would explore it. (Marc Normandin)
2010-06-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)Thanks, Tommy. It's been an emotional couple of weeks. Regarding Cashner, any advice you can think of for the Cubs to prevent Cashner's talent as a SP from going the route of Neftali Feliz, or worse, Joba Chamberlain? Seems like teams are taking the first half of Earl Weaver's advice really well, and forgetting the second half.
(bctowns from Chicago, IL)
The last sentence here is exactly correct. (Tommy Bennett)
2010-04-16 13:00:00 (link to chat)Do you think the Rangers will consider moving CJ Wilson back to the bullpen considering their bullpen is very thin and their SP is deep?
(Paul from Dallas)
If Wilson keeps pitching the way he did in his first start, no way he goes back to the pen. This has a chance to be the best Texas rotation in a long time, so I don't know that you mess with that. Thin bullpen or not, Rangers fans have to be excited to see Neftali Feliz closing games. Nasty, nasty young pitcher. If you've got the front and the back of a staff covered, astute teams find solutions for the middle. (Bradford Doolittle)
2010-03-17 14:00:00 (link to chat)Neftali Feliz is having a bit of a rough spring. Do you think the Rangers might send him down to start the season?
(Jmadeja from Chicago)
They might, but with only a little less than three weeks to go, there's not a lot of reason to say that the pitcher who had two bad weeks in Cactus League action can't have three good ones and erase these kinds of concerns before they really even become concerns. He's still Neftali Feliz, and he's still an incredible prospect. (Christina Kahrl)
2010-03-03 14:00:00 (link to chat)One last try, at the risk of pestering you...would you rather have Neftali Feliz's career, or Yovani Gallardo's?
(doog7642 from Blaine, MN)
Feliz by a nose. (Kevin Goldstein)
2010-02-17 16:00:00 (link to chat)What prospect are you aiming to take in your fantasy drafts this year?
(MarinerDan from SF)
For non-keeper leagues, I like Neftali Feliz, Jason Heyward, Buster Posey, Wade Davis, and Brian Matusz. Almost all of those guys will get good playing time. One deep sleeper I like okay is Mark Hamilton of the Cardinals. (Tommy Bennett)
2010-02-18 14:00:00 (link to chat)Kevin, Great interview on Atlanta Baseball Talk. It was great to hear your analysis. A few years ago you were on the Neftali Feliz bandwagon waaaay before anyone else (i.e. GCL with the Braves before the some trade we don't talk about anymore) Does Robinson Lopez have any of those same qualities ?
(Jrob0423 from Charlotte)
That was fun to do. Readers can check it out at: http://www.atlantabaseballtalk.com/. As for Lopez, I like him quite a bit, but he's not in Feliz' zip code. (Kevin Goldstein)
2010-02-05 13:00:00 (link to chat)Thoughts on Neftali Feliz for fantasy purposes this year?
(Victor from Riverside, CA)
PECOTA thinks he'll take a step back as he adjusts to the majors, and also has him as setup man. I would think that the transition to starting may hold his numbers back further until we know for sure he has his footing. That potential is very exciting though, and he may be worth a late pick just for stashing purposes. (Marc Normandin)
2010-01-14 16:00:00 (link to chat)Since I don't know your area of expertise, I'll just ask a general question. What do you think of the Rangers Rotation for next year? Harden, Feldman, Holland, Hunter, and one of Feliz, Harrison, McCarthy, Wilson, Hurley, or whoever.
(Ira from North Texas)
Everyone in that rotation has their tragic flaw. I don't know that me saying "Harden, if healthy..." adds anything to the discussion, but it's all I have to say about him. Feldman has the good sense to keep his batted balls on the ground and to let Elvis Andrus do the dirrrty work. He's the better of the bunch (assuming that Neftali Feliz is in the pen.) Holland caught some bad luck last year, but his peripherals still say "nothing special." (Russell A. Carleton)
2010-01-21 13:00:00 (link to chat)Assuming Neftali Feliz sticks in the rotation, what kind of numbers do you expect?
(Sacha from Fort Worth)
I know I said I would leave at 5, but I realized I was (A) close to answering 100 questions and (B) my computer took about 20 minutes of that question time I promised from you guys.

I'm not sure what kind of inning strain they would put on him given his age, but his rates would be wonderful, at least strikeouts anyways. I'm curious to see how he does if he sticks there all year. Think of the kind of struggles/promise/limited innings of Kershaw if you want a comp. (Marc Normandin)
2010-01-26 14:00:00 (link to chat)Which young dynamic duo would you choose for your team long term? Neftali Feliz and Derek Holland or Chris Tillman and Brian Matusz?
(Chad from Arlington)
Feliz/Holland, I think. The combined upside is higher. (Tommy Bennett)
2010-01-04 14:00:00 (link to chat)Have you revealed this year's Neftali Feliz? If not, pitcher or position player from the AL?
(dj playmaker from philly)
No, but he's coming soon! (Kevin Goldstein)
2009-12-29 15:00:00 (link to chat)Thanks for the chat. Here's the order in which I rank the following young SPs in projected career value - Tommy Hanson, Rick Porcello, Brett Anderson, Neftali Feliz, Chris Tillman, Mat Latos, Madson Bumgarner. I realize that guessing at career value for young SPs is a crapshoot but do you violently disagree with any aspect of this order?
(KerryFam4 from Atlanta, GA)
I'd have Feliz higher, and I'm not totally convinced the last two belong in this discussion. Porcello might be best, too. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-12-15 14:00:00 (link to chat)I read previously in this chat that Brandon Mccarthy among others was in the rotation next year when in reality Neftali Feliz and/or C.J. Wilson will be included in the Rangers rotation next year. Am I right or wrong? and won't this make their rotation at least on par with the other teams in the division? Thanks
(Tim Barta from Dallas, Texas)
They're considering Wilson, and we'll see if it takes; more often than not, they get explored, discussed, maybe even tried out in spring, and then they don't happen in the real season. They might have enough viable candidates that Feliz-as-reliever makes sense as well. The key to my way of thinking is as I said on Saturday is that they have eight plausible starting pitchers, McCarthy, Feliz, and Wilson among them. (Christina Kahrl)
2009-12-11 13:00:00 (link to chat)Does the signing of Harden at all affect what the Rangers plan to do with Neftali Feliz next year?
(Hendrix164 from Hartford, CT)
I don't think the Rangers have decided on that, but I don't think the Harden signing effects it much at all, as basically the Millwood trade evens them out roster wise. (Kevin Goldstein)
2009-11-17 14:00:00 (link to chat)Will you alert us to your long-promised "this year's Neftali Feliz guy" so there's no way we miss it? My fantasy team relies on such info.
(lucas from pittsburgh)
Well, we started in the right league . . . (Kevin Goldstein)
2009-10-09 13:30:00 (link to chat)Happy to see Nolan Ryan is going to give Neftali Feliz a chance to start next year. Thoughts on implementing a Joba Rules type approach with him?
(Corey from Fort Worth, TX)
I don't think the Joba rules should be applied to Joba, so no, not a fan. (Kevin Goldstein)
2009-09-24 14:00:00 (link to chat)This seems a slight year for interesting callups, Bumgarner's spot start and the Posey-drama aside. Have any of the youngsters called up since, say, the ASB caught your eye? Hudson, Avila, Young, someone else?
(Jim Clancy from Exhibition Stadium)
Neftali Feliz is the obvious one. Very fun to watch, although he may be tiring. I'm a Drew Stubbs fan, too. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-09-21 14:00:00 (link to chat)If the Rangers bring back their current team, with minimal to no free agent additions, do you see them likely performing worse, the same or better next season?
(ScotMartin from TX)
Well, I certainly think Derek Holland will improve given the tantalizing glimpses we've seen of him, and the addition of Neftali Feliz to the rotation will be a big deal, too. I'm less optimistic about the low strikeout rate guys repeating their success - Millwood, Hunter and Feldman - because if anything should go wrong (such as losing a tick of velocity to fatigue) they won't be nearly so effective.

I also think that the limitations of their low-OBP offense are glaringly apparent. They desperately need to find guys who can get on base to take advantage of the power bats they have in that lineup. They've got one regular above .340. (Jay Jaffe)
2009-09-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)Five keepers from: Wieters, Morales, Cano, Bartlett, Drew, Lind, Fowler, Pence, Feliz. Salary capped at $80m.
(Dave D from Brooklyn)
Do those guys added together even equal $80 mil? And is that Neftali Feliz or Pedro Feliz? Without further clarification, Wieters, Morales, Cano. Clarify the rest and I can give the other 2. (Eric Seidman)
2009-09-02 13:00:00 (link to chat)Neftali Feliz...starter or closer?
(ramjam36 from Fort Worth, TX)
Starter. I like how the Rangers are bringing these guys in as relievers, getting them acclimated to the major leagues before thrusting them into the rotation. Starters generally lose about 1.3-1.5 runs as compared to when they were relievers, so if we think Neftali is a true talent 1.40 ERA reliever, we're talking about the potential for a 2.75-3.25 ERA starter. Over 150+ IP/season I'll gladly take that in my rotation. (Eric Seidman)
2009-08-17 14:00:00 (link to chat)Ken, What do you make of Neftali Feliz's debut thus far? Do you have him penciled in the rotation moving forward, or is it likely he'll settle in to the back end of the pen long-term?
(Gary from Muncie, IN)
Wow. I mean, wow. Probably keep him in the pen this year, where he can make a Price-like impact should the Rangers make the playoffs. Long-term, given current usage patterns, if he can start he should start -- although I'll be curious to see how he's handled, given the Rangers' new pitching philosophy. Not sure how the Joba Rules would fly in Arlington. (Ken Funck)
2009-08-19 14:00:00 (link to chat)Jay, assuming you think that the AL East crown is probably settled, how do you see the wild card battle playing out? Will it be just between Boston and Texas? What are the keys to watch for, outside of Wakefield's return?
(Nick Stone from New York City)
Hello, Nick! At this point in the season I'm having a hard time taking the Rays seriously as Wild Card contenders given their inconsistency on both sides of the ball, so I do think it will come down to the Rangers and Red Sox. Earlier this year I'd have said it would be difficult to imagine the Sox struggling this much for this long given their roster, and that it would be even tougher to envision the Rangers maintaining their hot start given their pitch-to-contact ways. The Sox have had a lot of injuries, not only among the players they knew were health risks to begin but also to the players representing the first line of defense against them, and while I like the deadline moves they've made, particularly Victor Martinez, right now they're a mess. The Rangers have had injury problems as well, and done a very nice job augmenting their team in-season by calling up Derek Holland and Neftali Feliz, and as minor as it is, I like their acquisition of Pudge for the stretch.

I can envision this race coming down to whose young pitching holds up best under pressure -- Buccholz or Holland/Feliz. It's bigger than that, of course, but that's what I'll be watching most closely. (Jay Jaffe)
2009-07-15 14:00:00 (link to chat)Are the Rangers taking the Joba approach with Neftali Feliz and converting him back to a starter next season or will he remain in the pen?
(achaik from Bangor, ME)
It's my understanding that this is a "help the team for now" kinda move. (Kevin Goldstein)
2009-07-13 14:00:00 (link to chat)You're JP Ricciardi. Chris Davis, Neftali Feliz, Max Ramirez/Salatamalacchia, throw-in B prospect, and Marlon Byrd for Alex Rios and Halladay.
(Craig from Michigan)
Not enough. That's Feliz and a bunch of guys who've failed. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-05-28 14:00:00 (link to chat)What was the indicator that lead to you regarding Neftali Feliz as a top prospect at least a half year before anyone else? Was is just the scorching fastball, or was there some other caveat in the scouting report or a subtle observation from watching him pitch? What distinsuished Feliz of a year ago from a guy like Wilmer Font?
(Conjunction from Dallas)
Well, when I first pumped him, he had only pitched in the Gulf Coast League, so I had never seen him. The most important post of my job is not seeing guys (although I love to do that), it's talking to people out there who ARE seeing guys. Two people who I respect a ton, people who's opinions I might weigh a bit more than others, HAD seen him, and they both though he was more than a kid with a special arm (like Font for example), that he had a little something extra in terms of projectability, mechanics, feel for secondary stuff, etc. that made him special. (Kevin Goldstein)
2009-05-21 14:00:00 (link to chat)Is Stephen Strasburg the #1 prospect for 2010?
(Jim from D.C.)
Yes. I'm not Kevin, but I figure Jason Heyward, Neftali Feliz, Buster Posey and Justin Smoak are all in the mix. I'm almost certainly forgetting someone. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-05-04 14:00:00 (link to chat)If Gamel gets called up by June 1ish, what type of impact do you anticipate him having? Who else left in the minors should we be excited about seeing this year (not named Price, Weiters).
(corey from boston)
Tommy Hanson, Andrew McCutchen, Neftali Feliz. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-04-06 13:00:00 (link to chat)The A's have taken Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson, highly regarded pitching prospects with little experience over A-ball, and put them in the Opening Day rotation. The Rangers have taken Neftali Feliz and Derek Holland, highly regarded pitching prospects with little experience over A-ball, and put them in AAA, with Nolan Ryan saying they will likely initially pitch out of the bullpen when they do get to the majors. Which path do you think is preferable?
(X from Y)
I lean towards the latter, although the pitchers in question are so different that the divergent approaches probably work best for each pairing. It's worth noting that breaking in pitchers in Oakland is much different than doing so in Arlington, so you can push the envelope more. (Joe Sheehan)
2009-01-26 14:00:00 (link to chat)You don't have to spoil your Top 100 list (which we all eagerly await, of course) -- but who's the 2nd best overall pitching prospect now behind David Price? Madison Bumgarner? Tommy Hanson? Neftali Feliz? Chris Tillman?
(Andrew T. from Baltimore)
If you read all of the published Top 11s, the answer is in there somewhere. So now you have a puzzle. Just call me Professor Layton and your all the Curious Villagers. (Kevin Goldstein)
2009-01-26 14:00:00 (link to chat)Will Nolan Ryan destroy Neftali Feliz, Derek Holland and Martin Perez? Your concerns, if any? (To me, Ryan's statements amount to an increased workload being placed on these young pitcher's arms--how worried should a Texas fan be?)
(mikemcd from Ottawa)
I wouldn't be worried one bit. I think workload for young arms should be a concern, but I also think over the past few years the industry has overrated to the point of being wusses about it, and a reversal in the other direction to a more reasonable mid point would be for the best. So I salute the Rangers for having the gets to step back a bit in this regard. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-12-15 13:00:00 (link to chat)How do you feel about Nolan Ryan's plan for his pitchers? I'm skeptical about whether more random throwing (such as BP) mixed in between starts and bullpen sessions will really lead to increased durability. It seems like these things were gotten rid of as part of an attempt to increase the control a club had over how much a pitcher used his arm. If that's the case, they'd actually know less about how hard their pitchers are working. Or is that line of thinking just indicative of how cautious we've become with regards to the position?
(Rob from Brighton)
I like that he's got the right goal - more innings, but I'm not sure about the method. I like "throw more, pitch less" and I like that Jamie Reed and Keith Meister are involved, which will help them when they start seeing the inevitable burnouts. I don't like the idea of sacrificing some arms in the hopes that they'll get more innings across the board because those arms might be Neftali Feliz or Derek Holland as much as they're Joe Filler. I wish a team would take me up on a logical, individualized progression. One team discussed it with me, but it didn't go farther. I'm convinced on this one I'm right and no one's been able to say I was wrong. (Will Carroll)
2008-11-12 14:00:00 (link to chat)Neftali Feliz - Top 5 prospect overall?
(Dennis from Chicago)
I'm not only driving the Feliz bandwagon; I practically built the thing. That said, top 5 overall is more than a little strong. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-10-09 14:00:00 (link to chat)So which prospect SPs take the place of Price, Kershaw, etc. as the next big thing?
(Jake from Dallas)
Well, I don't think we're done seeing if those guys get over the hump yet, particularly considering Price has just 14 innings under his belt.

IANKG (I am not Kevin Goldstein) but looking over his Top 100 update from earlier in the summer, Rick Porcello (Detroit), Neftali Feliz (Texas) and Chris Tillman (Baltimore) look like the highly-ranked guys who moved up without losing eligibility. Beyond that, I'm out of my league. (Jay Jaffe)
2008-09-09 13:30:00 (link to chat)Joe, what is your take on Derek Holland? How does a lefty who throws 97 mph come out of nowhere? What is his ETA and ceiling?
(Gray from Chicago)
Most of what I know about Holland comes from Jamey Newberg, who has seen him a few times and is absolutely smitten. There are issues with everything but the fastball, but clearly, he's earned the right to be mentioned just after Neftali Feliz in the Rangers' pantheon of prospects. I'd slow him down a bit...maybe target a cup of coffee next year and a long relief/rotation path in 2010. (Joe Sheehan)
2008-09-03 14:00:00 (link to chat)KG, Any thought on giving Neftali Feliz a sniff this September? Similar to Kershaw will he compete for a starting job in the spring, or at some point next year, or is that a bit pre-mature?
(Clay from Fort Worth, TX)
It's a bit premature. The Rangers aren't in the playoff chase, and they have a crowded 40-man roster situation, so that would just complicate things more. I know he's moving quickly, but let's still exercise some patience here. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-08-29 12:00:00 (link to chat)That grand slam last night by ARam was ridiculous...anyway, prospect question...who is this Derek Holland kid and how good is he?
(Gray from Chicago)
Well I don't know much about him, but he's having a fantastic season. This is what Goldstein wrote about him back in early July (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=7744):

"All but buried in a rotation that includes top prospect Neftali Feliz and 2007 top pick Blake Beaven, six-foot-five lefty Derek Holland is making a name for himself with a 2.64 ERA in 15 starts, and generating the scouting buzz to match. Southpaws who can touch 95 mph are a rare commodity, and Holland has done that this year, although his heat usually sits in the low 90s; he's missing bats with both his heater and a plus changeup. His slider is average, and there are some concerns about him throwing across his body, but his size and the two plus offerings have him on a lot of people's radar these days."

Since then, he's been promoted from the Midwest League to the Cal League, where he put up a 3.19 ERA and 37/5 K/BB ratio in 5 starts, and then up again to Double-A Frisco, where in 4 starts he's given up 4 runs with a 29/6 K/BB. On the season he's also allowed only 2 homers in 160 innings. Overall, about as impressive a season as you're going to find from a 21-year-old pitching in the Texas chain of hitter's parks. (Caleb Peiffer)
2008-07-09 13:00:00 (link to chat)Which pitcher in the minor leagues has the best mechanics?
(Mike from Utica,NY)
I haven't seen most, so I can't even begin to answer this question. I saw video on Neftali Feliz recently and I really like how easy he makes high-90's heat look. (Will Carroll)
2008-07-07 13:00:00 (link to chat)Hey Kevin, thanks for the chat, always a nice way to spend an afternoon at work...oops was that out loud? Anyway, Neftali Feliz or Trevor Cahill? From what I've read Cahill is closer to the majors, but Feliz may have the higher upside? p.s.Dood! anxiously awaiting Disgaea 3...tick tick tick DooD!
(Goldeye99 from Priny Land)
I'll take Feliz by a small margin, but your further analysis is dead on. I'm tell my readers this right now -- There will be no Future Shock on August 28th, as Disgaea 3 arrives on the 27th and I will be taking to day off to lose myself in wacky Japanese SRPG greatness. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-06-04 16:00:00 (link to chat)Heya, KG! What's cracking? Please, please tell me that the Rangers aren't going to spring for Cashner at 11. I feel very nervous. Incidentally, congrats on being the first pundit on the Neftali Feliz bandwagon. It's filling up very quickly now.
(Or from Dallas)
I think they could go in many directions, but I'm not sure Cashner is it. I actually think if all the college guys are gone, they're very high on prepster Ethan Martin. Like anyone in the prospect business, I'm wrong a lot, but at the same time, I wish I saved all of the emails I got calling me an idiot when I have Feliz so far up the Braves list a couple years back. It's important to note that the only positive emails I think I got on that ranking came from people within the game. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-05-21 13:00:00 (link to chat)Neftali Feliz has been great so far. Think he gets a chance at AA this year, and maybe the Texas rotation in 2009?
(Drew from New York)
No and No. He just turned 20 and he barely has 100 innings of pro expereince, so slow it down a bit. (Kevin Goldstein)
2008-04-23 13:00:00 (link to chat)Neftali Feliz. Rough start so far at low A after a lot was expected. Future starting #1 ace? Future stud closer? Or are we still in the wait and see mode? How would you compare his upside to Jordan Walden?
(Mike from Raleigh NC)
As expected, he's very up and down. His last start was four innings and four runs, but at the same time, the first four innings were no-hit, and then he fell off a cliff. Still a stud. (Kevin Goldstein)


BP Roundtables

DateRoundtable NameComment
2010-04-05 09:30:00Season Opener RoundtableJquinton82 (NY): Heres a few topics: 1) Madison Bumgarner's missing velocity 2) First top 25 prospect to get called up, who & when? 3) The next Jimmy Rollins is...? 4) Word association - Yogi Berra ...discuss amongst yourselves

1) Either he's hurt, or he left it in his other pants. Like lost car keys, missing velocity is always in the last place you look.

2) Well, with Jason Heyward, Neftali Feliz, Brian Matusz and Alcides Escobar breaking camp, this doesn't seem like that big a deal, but I'll go with Buster Posey, May 9, after Bengie Molina sprains some fat.

3) ...taller than Rollins and hopefully blessed with a better OBP.

4) Provider of great book titles by cool people, including our own It Ain't Over 'Til It's Over and friend Emma Span's 90% of The Game Is Half Mental, which is one of this spring's funniest baseball books.

Speaking of Yogi, I read a quote the other day that was attributed to him: "In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is." Alas, that quote has also been attributed to one Johannes "Jan" L. A. van de Snepscheut, a Dutch computer scientist who taught at Caltech before bludgeoning his wife to death with an axe in 1994.

So there's a happy tale. (Jay Jaffe)
 

PITCHf/x Pitcher Profile

A Collaboration between BrooksBaseball.net and Baseball Prospectus - Pitch classifications provided by Pitch Info LLC


Neftalí Feliz has thrown 8,174 pitches that have been tracked by the PITCHf/x system between 2009 and 2023, all of them occuring in Spring Training. In 2023, he has relied primarily on his Fourseam Fastball (93mph) and Slider (82mph), also mixing in a Change (85mph).