January 27, 2025

Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024 as he was given a full-time role in the Cubs lineup and should be expected to retain that role in 2025. Last summer, Busch logged most of his starts at first base and held a .248/.335/.440 line with 28 doubles, 21 home runs, and two stolen bases across 152 games. He tallied 65 RBI and 73 runs, batting typically in the six-hole of the lineup. He made his major league debut in 2023 with the Dodgers but made only 27 appearances. Over the offseason, the Cubs traded Cody Bellinger, suggesting that Busch would be given complete control over the starting first base job in 2025. Under the hood, the 27-year-old generated an impressive 11.2% barrel rate, 36.4% LA sweet-spot rate, and an 89.9 mph average exit velocity, all of which were above the average marks. He also drew walks at a strong 11.1% rate, placing him in the 85th percentile among qualified hitters. This high walk rate helped offset his hefty 28.6% K rate in points leagues. Given how hard he hits the ball and his placement in the Chicago lineup that will welcome superstar Kyle Tucker, fantasy managers should view him as a solid corner infielder later in drafts. Given his potential for another 20+ HR campaign with upside for 140+ R+RBI, Busch is a great value pick going off as the No. 21 first baseman at pick 269 on NFBC drafts.--Andy Smith