March 11, 2022

Colorado Rockies outfielder Charlie Blackmon has been fading fast from both a fantasy and real life perspective over the past couple years. Last season was the worst season he's had since he first became a fantasy mainstay in 2014. Over 150 games last year, he slashed .270/.351/.411 with 13 home runs, 78 RBI and 76 runs. His .292 xBA suggests that he was a bit unlucky overall, but an increased batting average would only go so far in salvaging Blackmon's fantasy value. The 35-year-old was a fantasy gem when he was a threat for 30 home runs, a lock for double-digit steals and a sure thing for strong counting stats while leading off for a potent Rockies offense. Blackmon is no longer leading off. And despite the advantage of Coors Field, the Rockies were a middling offense last year. They should also take a step back offensively in 2022, assuming their top hitter from last year, Trevor Story, signs elsewhere. Finally, Blackmon is no longer a stolen base threat (just three last year) and his power potential has faded. While 20 home runs is within reach, don't expect much more than that. Blackmon currently has an ADP just outside the top-200 and even that may be a tad too high. Batting average is really the only stat that fantasy managers can be confident Blackmon will be a strong contributor in.--Andrew Ericksen - RotoBaller