A well-known fantasy analyst engaged with Yahoo Fantasy Plus enthusiasts on a Thursday, providing insights and answering questions about fantasy baseball on a private Discord platform. This marks another exclusive advantage for those subscribed to Yahoo Fantasy Plus.
Curious about what transpired during the interaction? Not to worry; key moments from the session are detailed below. To ensure you’re included in the next session with an expert, gain access to the exclusive Discord community, and receive optimized lineup suggestions along with enhanced trade and waiver advice, consider subscribing to Yahoo Fantasy Plus.
We’re approaching the MLB All-Star break, signaling the imminent final phase of the fantasy baseball calendar. A significant event is the MLB Trade Deadline, set for July 31 at 6 p.m. ET. Your fantasy league’s trade deadline is likely approaching as well. If that is indeed the case, now presents an optimal time to acquire valuable insights regarding trade tactics.
Note: In certain instances, adjustments have been implemented to enhance clarity in both questions and answers.
Fantasy Baseball AMA Insights
Question: What’s your take on Addison Barger? His performance metrics are impressive. He experienced a brief downturn but is now regaining momentum. Is this level of performance sustainable throughout the remainder of the season?
Scott’s Answer: I’m generally a fan. He has some challenges against left-handed pitchers, but the data set is small. His Statcast profile supports his performance with encouraging metrics. His expected batting average is .292, and his expected slugging percentage is .540. While gauging the authenticity of the Blue Jays might be difficult due to exceeding their expected run production, Barger appears to be a valuable fantasy prospect, potentially for the entirety of 2025.
Question: I’m seeking your advice. I have four outfielders: Julio Rodríguez, Seiya Suzuki, Bryan Reynolds, and Chandler Simpson. Should I consider trading one? If so, would Reynolds be the best option in a 12-team points league?
Scott’s Answer: We should be grateful for Suzuki’s contributions. Rodríguez is underperforming relative to expectations but remains a valuable player to retain. Simpson suits specific roster compositions and statistical needs. Reynolds has exhibited a noticeable discrepancy between his actual and expected stats, indicating his slugging should be significantly higher. Given this, I would prioritize keeping Reynolds over Simpson. However, Pittsburgh’s offensive environment should be considered.
Question: Hi Scott, I’m a first-time participant with a long-term question. Do you believe Jazz Chisholm can sustain his current impressive performance, or should I explore trading him to capitalize on his high value before the league’s deadline? Thanks!
Scott’s Answer: Historically, Chisholm’s performance has been tied to his health and level of engagement. His relocation to New York seemingly revived him last year. While there might be a slight inflation in his current output, it’s minimal. Forecast his performance at around 90% of his present rate as a baseline for expectations. I have confidence in his abilities.
Question: Could you identify some players with the potential for significant improvement in the second half of the season who are worthwhile pickups?
Scott’s Answer: Ronny Henriquez could potentially assume control of the Miami bullpen for the remainder of the season, and they are a reasonably competitive team. Roman Anthony, though likely unavailable, is becoming increasingly comfortable and appears poised for a breakout. Brayan Bello remains surprisingly under-rostered.
Question: This is more of a general baseball question than a fantasy-specific one. What are your long-term expectations for Rafael Devers? While it’s still early, it seems his performance has slightly declined since his trade to the Giants. Considering his swing, playing style, and Oracle Park’s characteristics, is it reasonable to anticipate a notable regression as he enters his 30s?
Scott’s Answer: While the Red Sox faced criticism for the trade, I believe history might justify their decision, given the potential decline Devers might experience. The Giants will need to accommodate Devers, either at first base or as a designated hitter. The park is not well-suited for his skill set. I foresee a career trajectory more akin to Xander Bogaerts than Mookie Betts. The trade’s timing and tone from Boston’s perspective are not defensible, but the underlying rationale has merit.
Question: It might be premature, but what’s your initial assessment of Jacob “The Miz” Misiorowski’s potential? Does he possess the capability to become a top-10 starting pitcher?
Scott’s Answer: I’m slightly less optimistic than the general consensus. I understand that’s a contrarian view. He struggles with control and issues a number of walks. His delivery might ultimately lead him to a relief role. However, the same was said of Chris Sale. His strikeout rate is undoubtedly impressive, and he’s certainly an exciting player to watch.
Question: Which catchers, commonly available on the waiver wire, do you favor? The catcher position has felt scarce this season.
Scott’s Answer: I wouldn’t say it’s been exceptionally barren. Managers who roster Raleigh have struck gold, and players like Hunter Goodman and Agustín Ramírez have emerged from obscurity. Alejandro Kirk was also a free agent for a time. Ben Rice also qualifies. Currently, Omar Narváez presents a solid option, especially given the depth of his lineup and the favorable park. Rice remains undervalued. Drake Baldwin and Dillon Dingler are also worth considering. There are definitely choices available.
Question: Fred Zinkie, in his trade analyzer article this week, suggested targeting players like Vlad Jr., Mike Trout, Ian Happ, and/or Luis García Jr. for the remainder of the season. Among these potential acquisitions, which do you find most appealing, and what would it take to secure one of them?
Scott’s Answer: García stood out to me because his situation is less obvious and less scrutinized, and he’s not a player who generates a lot of hype. When initiating trade talks, inquire about infielders, then quietly pivot to García. As for the acquisition cost, it’s difficult to say definitively. I’m not privy to your league dynamics or opponent strategies. However, García’s underperforming stats make him an ideal target to acquire at a reduced price.
Question: Is Adley Rutschman droppable? I’m currently holding him on my injured list, but I’m hesitant to keep him on my active roster when he returns. I also have Kirk.
Scott’s Answer: We must prioritize performance over reputation. Rutschman’s career trajectory eerily mirrors that of Matt Wieters. You’re not obligated to release him, but it’s not an unreasonable consideration. He’s been unproductive and is now injured.
Question: Will the news regarding Hunter Greene ensure Chase Burns retains his spot in the Reds’ rotation?
Scott’s Answer: I certainly hope so. I felt Burns showed promising signs in his second start. The schedule presented considerable challenges.
🎯 Are you prepared to maximize your fantasy potential?
Note that access to the Discord channel is exclusive to Yahoo Fantasy Plus subscribers. This represents the latest addition to Yahoo Fantasy Plus, designed to help you triumph over your competitors.
Seize this opportunity to gain a competitive advantage by subscribing to Yahoo Fantasy Plus today.
For assistance, please consult our FAQs.
