February 18, 2025

Texas Rangers outfielder Evan Carter was a massive disappointment in 2024 by hitting .145 with five home runs, 15 RBI, 23 runs, and two stolen bases in 45 games. He was a popular breakout pick headed into the year after slashing .306/.413/.645 with five home runs and three steals in a 23-game debut to end 2023, but a stress reaction in his lower back sidelined him for the entire season after May 26. The back issue has been a chronic problem dating back multiple years for the youngster, but Carter says they have a plan in place for 2025 that will hopefully keep him healthy. Even if he does remain healthy, his struggles against left-handed pitchers will probably keep him limited to a strong-side platoon role. Luckily, his ADP of 268 on NFBC is very affordable, and he is still worth taking a shot on late in drafts to chase that upside he showed in 2023. The 22-year-old remains one of the fastest players in the game with a sprint speed in the  97th percentile, which makes a 15-homer and 15-steal season attainable for him. ATC projections are on board with Carter producing double-digit homers and steals by projecting him to slash .243/.333/.405 with 13 homers and 11 steals in 2025. Carter also has added value in points leagues and OBP leagues thanks to his career 11.4% walk rate.--Jeremy Heist - RotoBaller