RADIO
Willie Calhoun Looks to Make An Impact In 2018
7 years agoThe central piece of the return in the Yu Darvish trade, Texas Rangers designated hitter Willie Calhoun looks primed to take a big role in the Rangers’ lineup. Calhoun combines insane bat speed with a naturally lofty swing that produces lift and capitalizes on the big power that the short, stout hitter brings to the table. Opinions on his 2018 value are divisive, as questions of defensive position and role in the lineup linger. That said, the 23-year old has raked at every level, and held his own against major-league pitching in a 37 at-bat cup of coffee in 2017. It is perfectly reasonable to see 30 home runs with a healthy complement of runs and RBI on a .280 average with a sub-15% strikeout rate in 2018 assuming he gets playing time. That potential is rare and tantalizing even as an outfielder, and it is still possible that he gets enough starts to qualify as a second baseman. Expect Calhoun to be one of the biggest movers in ADP as you get closer to draft day, but if you can grab him sometime after pick 140, you could have a steal on your hands.
