PROSPECT: Dru Baker, OF, Tampa Bay Rays
ANALYSIS: The Rays selected Baker in the fourth round in 2021 out of Texas Tech. He played all over the field with the Red Raiders, but the Rays have focused his defensive efforts in the outfield. Baker has the athleticism to handle any of the outfield spots, though his natural instincts aren't quite there to project as a future MLB center fielder.
The thing that's never been in question is Baker's ability to hit. He's a .299 hitter over three seasons of minor league ball, though injuries have held that total experience to just 154 games. What's incredible is that in those 154 games, Baker has posted 23 doubles, 10 triples, 19 home runs, and 68 stolen bases. If he could only remain on the field, he could be a fantasy star with his combination of speed and power.
VERDICT: Baker's in a Rays system that's incredibly deep in players, but his talent is quickly rising to the top of the system. He should really only be owned for sure in deep dynasty right now, but be ready to act quickly if he's moved to Triple-A and ends up just an injury away from MLB.
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