Oneil Cruz

Oneil Cruz followed up his 2024 breakout (21 HR, 22 SB, .773 OPS, 114 OPS+) with a steep regression in 2025, batting just .200 with an 87 OPS+ despite swiping a career-high 38 bases. The underlying power metrics remain loud — his 95.8 mph average exit velocity and 56.9% hard-hit rate were both elite and actually improved year over year — but a .262 BABIP and persistent 32.0% strikeout rate cratered his overall production. While his 11.8% walk rate was a career best, the contact issues and declining run production (RE24: -5.45) highlight the volatility in his profile. Looking ahead, Cruz's 2026 projections suggest a rebound toward his 2024 form, banking on normalization in batting average with continued 20/30 upside. If the BABIP corrects even partially, his rare combination of top-of-scale power and speed makes him a prime fantasy rebound candidate with high-variance upside — but managers must build around the batting average risk.

Oneil Cruz to play in World Baseball Classic

Pirates outfielder Oneil Cruz will play for the Dominican Republic at the upcoming World Baseball Classic.

Fantasy Impact

Cruz will join a loaded Dominican Republic roster that will be in serious contention at the WBC in early March. The 27-year-old hit 20 homers and stole 38 bases in 2025, but also hit just .200 with a .676 OPS in what was a down season for the talented outfielder.