January 11, 2019

New York Mets second baseman Jeff McNeil quickly became the fits-all-categories player that helped managers stabilize their rosters towards a fantasy championship in 2018. The 27-year-old doesn’t have an extensive track record to assess as he burst onto the scene in 2018. While he only had three homers in 225 at-bats, McNeil quickly provided 11 doubles, six triples, seven stolen bases, and a .329 batting average. He may not have loads of power to his game but there is plenty of that in fantasy baseball. McNeil’s main draw is his ability to get on base and hit for a high average. He shines at the plate thanks to his excellent plate discipline and a tremendous strikeout rate (9.7%), which ranked second in the majors for the second-half. The contact skills (85%) and his ability to limit swing and misses (8.3%) are just incredible as well. The biggest question for the 2019 season is where McNeil will play. He was initially slated to be the starting second baseman, but the trade for Robinson Cano and acquisition of Jed Lowrie has likely moved McNeil to a utility role. There is an increasing possibility of outfield time as well, which would add to his positional eligibility. McNeil’s skills at the plate are legit and he is set to provide a high batting average with a dash of speed thrown in for good measure. With the team acquisitions, McNeil’s average draft position will drop, but assuming the Mets find a way to get his bat in the lineup, even his current ADP of 223 is a value.--Ellis Canady - RotoBaller