Fantasy Baseball Player Notes

Nico Hoerner delivered a solid fantasy season in 2024, recording seven home runs, 48 RBIs, 86 runs scored, and 31 stolen bases over 151 games. His .273/.335/.373 slash line aligns closely with his career .278 batting average, suggesting a sustainable performance. While Hoerner's power metrics, such as a 1.2% Barrel Rate and an average exit velocity of 85.7 mph, indicate limited home run potential, his elite contact skills are evident in his 12.1% strikeout rate, ranking eighth-lowest among qualified hitters. An October surgery to repair a flexor tendon in his right forearm may impact his availability for the start of the 2025 season. Fantasy managers should monitor his recovery closely, as his speed and contact skills make him a valuable second baseman when healthy.

Matt Shaw should be the starting third baseman for the Cubs as soon as Opening Day, though the acquisition of Justin Turner may delay his arrival. However, there is everything to love about Shaw in fantasy. The 23-year-old hit 21 home runs and stole 31 bases across both Double-A and Triple-A last season. He has also maintained a high OBP at every level of the minors and demonstrated a strong hard-hit percentage across. Shaw is the type of prospect where expectations for a high floor right away seem reasonable. He is an excellent late round pick (currently going in the 23rd round).