Fantasy Baseball Player Notes

It was only a matter of time before William Contreras became the top catcher in fantasy baseball, and his usage is one big reason why. The 27-year-old appeared in 155 games, catching 120 while serving as DH in 35. It is hard to find that level of consistency at the backstop position, but his numbers also stand alone. He hit 23 home runs, scored 99 runs, drove in 92, and stole nine bases. Perhaps his best trait compared to his peers is that he is an asset to your ratio numbers. He slashed .281/.365/.466 in 2024, which is not an aberration compared to his career. Aside from having to use an early pick on him, there isn't much downside to the younger Contreras.

Christian Yelich was in the midst of a resurgent season before back issues resurfaced. In 73 games, he posted 11 home runs, 21 stolen bases, 44 runs, and 42 RBIs while slashing an impressive .315/.406/.504-flashing glimpses of his peak form. However, the key number here is 73 games. After two consecutive seasons of surpassing 140 games played, he logged the fewest of his career outside of the shortened 2020 season. As 2025 approaches, fantasy managers should closely monitor his health updates out of Milwaukee. At 32 years old, Yelich carries significant risk, so if you draft him, be sure to have a reliable contingency plan in place.

Rhys Hoskins returned to MLB action in 2024 after missing the entire 2023 season due to a torn ACL. In his comeback season with the Brewers, Hoskins posted a .214 batting average, hitting 26 home runs, driving in 82 runs, and scoring 59 times over 137 games. His .303 on-base percentage and .419 slugging percentage contributed to a .722 OPS, way below his career average of .827. Notably, his 12.7% barrel rate in 2024 suggests that his power potential remains intact. However, his 28.8% strikeout rate raises concerns about his contact skills. As he enters his age-32 season, maintaining health and improving plate discipline will be crucial for Hoskins to be a late-round valuable power hitter.