Yandy Díaz

If fantasy points were awarded for hitting the ball hard, then Yandy Diaz would be a top 20 hitter. For the third time in four years, Diaz ranked in the 90th percentile or better for hard hit rate. And last year, it led to a career-high 25 home runs. Diaz also had a career-high 83 RBI along with an impressive .300/.366/.482 slash line. But Diaz's long-awaited "read more...

If fantasy points were awarded for hitting the ball hard, then Yandy Diaz would be a top 20 hitter. For the third time in four years, Diaz ranked in the 90th percentile or better for hard hit rate. And last year, it led to a career-high 25 home runs. Diaz also had a career-high 83 RBI along with an impressive .300/.366/.482 slash line. But Diaz's long-awaited "breakout" wasn't down to finally elevating the ball more. He hit ground balls (53.6% GB%) and fly balls (27.6% FB%) at a similar rate in 2025 as his career marks. The reason for Diaz's career-high 25 home runs can be attributed to his home ballpark. Last year, the Rays played home games at George M. Steinbrenner Field, which ranked as the sixth-best ballpark for home runs in 2025. Compare that to Tropicana Field, which ranked 16th best for home runs in 2024, according to Statcast. The Rays are returning to Tropicana Field in 2026. Given that 18 of Diaz's 25 homers last year came at home, it's fair to say that Diaz's home run total won't be repeated. Diaz does have a career .290 batting average, and he should still hit around that mark this year. Just don't draft Diaz expecting a repeat of last year.less...