6 years agoWhen discussing Tampa Bay Rays outfielder Kevin Kiermaier, injuries are the hot topic. Through his six-year career, Kiermaier’s breached 110 games and 450 plate appearances just once (2015). Despite his persistent ailments, Kiermaier’s registered four seasons of double-digit homers and steals. Extrapolated over 600-plus plate appearances, 20 long balls and 30 steals should be a foregone conclusion. But midway through his career, the “P-word” (potential) for Kiermaier has turned sour and he’s proven he cannot stay on the field. Considering his ADP of 319, these risks are fully absorbed by the market. Kiermaier turns 29 next season, so he’s no spring chicken. For his table-setting skill set, Kiermaier demonstrates subpar plate discipline and holds an uninspiring career slash of .254/.313/.421. He’s also becoming more swing-happy, with whiff rates skyrocketing for three consecutive years. Kiermaier’s phenomenal defense paves his path to playing time, but health and limited statistical contributions appear to be structural issues. At his ADP, Kiermaier is being drafted as a rotational outfielder, but his track record argues even this is too ambitious. Surrounding Kiermaier are a plethora of higher-upside youngsters and established veterans. Considering his age, injury history and narrow fantasy resume, Kiermaier falls into neither category. He’s a fine flier option for irrational truthers, but it’s reasonable to believe Kiermaier will just be a waiver claim away if he emerges as an intermittent fantasy asset throughout the season.--Andrew Le - RotoBaller