Yoshi Tsutsugo

The Dodgers and Rays made a trade involving Yoshi Tsutsugo for a player to be named later or cash.

Fantasy Impact

Tsustugo has struggled mightily in 2021 with zero home runs and a .167 batting average. In 2020, when he first came over to the majors, he hit eight home runs with 27 runs and 24 RBI with a .197 batting average. Tsutsugo showed a bit of power with a 111.1 mph max exit velocity, and it looks like the Dodgers are acquiring depth to replace Edwin Ríos who they lost for the season.

The Tampa Bay Rays announced Tuesday that they’ve designated first baseman/outfielder Yoshi Tsutsugo for assignment.

Fantasy Impact

Through 26 games, Tsutsugo was batting just .167 with a 31% strikeout rate and no home runs after batting .197 with eight home runs in 2020.

The Rays slugger is expected to slot back into his usual DH duties with appearances at first base once in a while. He'll be batting 8th in the series opener vs. Houston on Friday night.

Fantasy Impact

Tsutsugo has had a rocky start to his 2021 season hitting just .183 with an OPS of .479. Still, his ability to go deep at any moment is super valuable. The Rays hope he can turn around the early season slump and help an offense that has scored just 17 runs in their last seven games.

Yoshi Tsutsugo has been added to the Rays' COVID-19 IL with vaccination side effects.

Fantasy Impact

With Tsutsugo only being put on the IL due to the side effects he will most likely be activated when said side effects subside.

Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times writes it "seems likely" Yoshi Tsutsugo will hit leadoff for the Rays this season.

Fantasy Impact

Manager Kevin Cash noted how much more comfortable Tsutsugo has looked this spring, which gives him optimism about his chances this year. Hitting leadoff will certainly be a boost for his fantasy value, especially in DFS.