- Fri Mar 21, 2025 3:36 pm
#8723
As we dive deeper into the 2025 fantasy baseball season, the conversation around potential busts is heating up. Ben Pernick's recent analysis using Statcast's Player Similarity feature has unearthed some intriguing names that could be worth discussing.
Take Luis Robert Jr., for instance. With an ADP of 75, he’s coming off a 2023 season that saw him hit 38 homers and steal 20 bases. But can we really trust that performance? His barrel rate has dipped, and his K% is trending in the wrong direction. Is it fair to expect a bounce-back season, or are we setting ourselves up for disappointment?
Then there's Josh Naylor, who’s been generating buzz after a strong spring. However, his move to Arizona raises questions about his power potential in a less favorable park. With projections suggesting a ceiling of 20 homers, is he really worth the hype, or should we be looking at alternatives like Vinnie Pasquantino instead?
And what about Triston Casas? His comps are less than flattering, and his strikeout rate is alarming. Are we overvaluing him based on a small sample size, or is there a legitimate chance he could break out if he secures a full season of playing time?
Lastly, Xander Bogaerts has been a perennial name in the buy the dip conversation, but with his declining barrel rates and increasing passivity at the plate, is it time to finally let go of the hope that he can return to form? Could Otto Lopez, with an ADP of 341, actually outproduce him this season?
Let’s hear your thoughts! Which of these players are you avoiding in drafts? Are there any hidden gems you think could outperform their projections? Or do you have a bold prediction for a player you believe will defy the odds this season? Share your insights and let’s get the debate rolling!
Take Luis Robert Jr., for instance. With an ADP of 75, he’s coming off a 2023 season that saw him hit 38 homers and steal 20 bases. But can we really trust that performance? His barrel rate has dipped, and his K% is trending in the wrong direction. Is it fair to expect a bounce-back season, or are we setting ourselves up for disappointment?
Then there's Josh Naylor, who’s been generating buzz after a strong spring. However, his move to Arizona raises questions about his power potential in a less favorable park. With projections suggesting a ceiling of 20 homers, is he really worth the hype, or should we be looking at alternatives like Vinnie Pasquantino instead?
And what about Triston Casas? His comps are less than flattering, and his strikeout rate is alarming. Are we overvaluing him based on a small sample size, or is there a legitimate chance he could break out if he secures a full season of playing time?
Lastly, Xander Bogaerts has been a perennial name in the buy the dip conversation, but with his declining barrel rates and increasing passivity at the plate, is it time to finally let go of the hope that he can return to form? Could Otto Lopez, with an ADP of 341, actually outproduce him this season?
Let’s hear your thoughts! Which of these players are you avoiding in drafts? Are there any hidden gems you think could outperform their projections? Or do you have a bold prediction for a player you believe will defy the odds this season? Share your insights and let’s get the debate rolling!