Welcome to another week of Deep League analysis! I'm here to dissect the risers and fallers from Week 9, offering my expert commentary and insights. Let's dive into the numbers and explore the trends that are shaping the fantasy baseball landscape.
The Fallers
Cole Young, Seattle Mariners
Cole Young was a bright spot for the Mariners in April, but his hot streak has fizzled out in May. His hard-hit rate, exit velocity, and whiff rate are all below average, and his BABIP has taken a nosedive. While some regression was expected, Young's contact ability has improved, and his process chart suggests a positive trajectory. I'd advise holding onto Young, as he's still a solid option for steals and homers, despite the dip in performance.
Colt Keith, Detroit Tigers
Colt Keith's batting average was a highlight in April, but his performance has taken a turn in May. His BABIP has dropped, and his power output has dried up. Keith's decision value and contact ability are now below average, and his fantasy impact has been negligible. I initially thought we were witnessing a breakout, but now I'm questioning his upside. Keith's downward trend is concerning, and I'd be cautious about rostering him in deeper leagues.
Jose Fernandez, Arizona Diamondbacks
Jose Fernandez, a 22-year-old with speed and bat speed, has been a disappointment in May. His chase rate remains high, and his walk rate is low. While he's improved his stolen base pace, his BABIP has dropped, and his overall line has been rough. Fernandez's process chart shows variability, and his performance is trending downward. I'd hold him in dynasty formats, but a move to AAA might be beneficial. If Pavin Smith returns, Fernandez could be on the move.
The Risers
Gavin Sheets, San Diego Padres
Gavin Sheets is on fire! His recent surge has propelled him to a .256/.333/.543 line with 9 homers and 40 combined runs and RBI. Sheets' barrel rate and hard-hit rate have improved, and he's even stolen a base. His chase rate is the only metric below average, but his power output and speed make him a valuable asset. Sheets' late-career breakout last season has continued, and I'd add him to any roster where possible. He's a legitimate power source with a chance to slug 25-30 homers this year.
Carson Benge, New York Mets
Carson Benge, a rookie outfielder, has been a pleasant surprise in May. His sprint speed, hard-hit rates, and exit velocities are above average, and his chase, whiff, and K rates are strong. Benge's process chart supports his improved performance, and the Mets have taken notice, moving him to the leadoff spot. While he won't provide big power, he's up to 8 steals already and is a solid option for deeper leagues. I'm eagerly awaiting his appearance on 'Benging with Babish'!
Keibert Ruiz, Washington Nationals
Keibert Ruiz is a high-swing rate, low-walk rate player, but his contact ability has improved significantly. His exit velocity and barrel rate are up, and his hard-hit rate is impressive. Ruiz's power output is below average, but it's trending up. With the Nationals leading the MLB in scoring, Ruiz is a great option for deep leagues, offering more upside than expected. He's a solid replacement for Cal Raleigh or Ryan Jeffers, and his process chart suggests a positive trajectory.
