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ANALYSIS: Since taking over as the Pirates’ primary leadoff hitter on May 28, Kevin Newman has become a huge piece of the Pirates offense. In that period, he’s slashing .331/.363/.512 with five home runs and 22 runs batted in.
Through Saturday June 29, Newman’s on a 19-game hitting streak that is the longest by a Pirates rookie since 1900. Across the streak, he’s hitting .385 with a 1.024 OPS and 10 runs scored. His season .286 xBA and .372 wOBA are sixth and seventh among qualified shortstops, respectively. While he’s hit three home runs in the last four games, don’t expect it going forward as the long ball has never been a part of his professional profile. His 2019 home run total is already tied for the highest in a season of his career.
Newman’s ability to get on base is his key fantasy factor. Along with his .422 OBP during his hit streak, he’s walked six times and swiped four bags. The Pirates are set with the rookie at the top, giving him plenty of run scoring opportunities which will give him quality fantasy value heading into the All-Star break.
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