Fantasy Baseball Player Notes

Fernando Tatis Jr. dealt with injuries during the 2024 season but remained highly productive when on the field. Over 102 games, he delivered 21 home runs, 64 runs scored, 49 RBI, and 11 stolen bases. His Statcast metrics remain elite, ranking in the 99th percentile for hard-hit rate and in the 97th percentile for both average exit velocity and expected batting average. While his days of swiping 25+ bases may be behind him, Tatis continues to provide excellent power and strong ratios. If the Padres bolster their lineup through free agency, his counting stats could see a notable boost.

Jackson Merrill made a significant impact for the Padres in 2024. The 21-year-old transitioned seamlessly from Double-A to the majors, delivering an impressive season. He tallied 24 home runs, 77 runs scored, 90 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases, all while maintaining a .292/.326/.500 slash line. These stats are supported by elite underlying metrics, including a .308 xBA (98th percentile), .547 xSLG (96th percentile), and .376 xwOBA (94th percentile). While Merrill's 4.9% walk rate and tendency to chase pitches leave room for improvement, his production more than compensates. Fantasy managers can confidently target him as a strong OF2 option, with 2025 projections aligning closely with his standout 2024 season, making him worth a third-round pick in upcoming drafts.