3 years agoComing off a down 2020 campaign, third baseman/outfielder Kris Bryant had a nice bounce back in 2021. Bryant slashed .265/.353/.481 with 25 home runs, 73 RBI, and 86 runs scored over 586 plate appearances split between the Chicago Cubs and San Francisco Giants. His 10.6% walk rate and a .356 wOBA supported the best on-base percentage he had posted since 2019. In addition, his 2021 strikeout rate of 23%, though still in the bottom half of MLB, was the lowest strikeout rate he had posted since 2017. Although not elite, Bryant's EV on FB/LD in 2021 was 92.8 mph. This metric was in the top-100 of all MLB qualified hitters, lending support to his 25 HR output in home ballparks that were less than hitter-friendly. Bryant's recent decision to sign with the Colorado Rockies to primarily play left field in 2022 enhances his fantasy outlook. Playing half of his games in Coors Field should result in positive gains to Bryant's overall slash line and slightly boost HR totals. Of course, a weak lineup in Colorado should serve to keep his run and RBI totals in check, so managers should temper expectations in those two counting stat categories. Prior to his decision to sign with the Rockies, ATC projected a .265/.353/.481 slash line with 25 HR and 73 RBI for Bryant. ATC now projects a .271/.365/.491 to go with 26 HR and 79 RBI. As one of the top five or six third basemen at a very thin position, who also gives managers position flexibility in the outfield, Bryant is appropriately being drafted at an ADP of 92. The move to Colorado should generate an uptick in his performance from 2021 (and earlier off-season projections). That said, be careful to set draft minimums based on recency bias due to his move to Coors where Bryant's best seasons (2015-2017) are almost five years ago.--Nick Ritrivi - RotoBaller