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Both entered/are entering full time ML play at age 25 and Steamer & Oliver suggest a similar first full season (perhaps expecting a slightly better FIP for K-Pax). I don't recall how hard Erik threw back then, but I'll bet James throws substantially harder, or can anyway. He seems to me to be easing off a bit to cut down on walks, while getting a good number of ground balls with that heavy ball of his as well. Don't you think a ground ball rate of 47+% helps deal with the pitches per plate appearance and other baserunning issues - double plays and all.
Anyway, the combination of harder throwing and heavier ball action with that downward plane of his seem to be very good tools to compensate for the issues your raise, Spec.
Erik had a rough first couple of months his rookie season before settling down, and I kinda expect James may as well. I think it's a different thing to come into your September callup all warmed up with kinks worked out vs. beginning the season in April after an off season layoff, particularly if you are known for being a little wild.