Kevin Pillar 2019 Outlook: Late Round Power/Speed Combo
6 years agoToronto Blue Jays outfielder Kevin Pillar has elite defense that often overshadows his consistent offensive ability. In 2018, Pillar hit 15 HR with 65 R, 59 RBI, and 14 SB while batting .252. These numbers are eerily similar to his 2015-2018 average mark of 13/68/53/17/.263. If only Pillar could get on base more, he could improve on his SB numbers. With his .282 OBP mark from last year, he ranked in the bottom ten of all qualified hitters, and his 3.3% BB% finished as third worst. His contact numbers diminishing with his on-base ability. Selling out for more in the power department last season, the center fielder saw nearly a 3% surge on his K% as it rose to 18.1% last season. As alluded to, his power numbers have increased, but there's nothing to boast about his .426 SLG and .174 ISO in 2018. Entering his age 30 season the steals will remain constant, and he’s still capable of a repeat of 15 HR, so a 15/15 year is well within range. His deteriorating BB/K skills keep his average limited to the .245-.255 range, and it will also keep him in the bottom half of the lineup. With the lack of depth around him, the right-hander's R and RBI totals will remain in the neighborhood of his career averages with no real threat of substantial improvement. With an ADP of 305, Pillar is a reliable late option for added steals and a few counting stats, but know you won’t get much more than what you’ll pay for on draft day.