February 24, 2021

Nick Solak has an opportunity to break out in the 2021 season. He's always been known for his above-average hitting skills, but Solak's defense has been considered a liability. He's played in the outfield, and at first, second and third base in his brief two-year career. However, he's expected to start the 2021 season as the Rangers' starting second baseman, a position that Solak has acknowledged he's the most comfortable playing. That comfort level as well as his overall skillset should help him elevate his game. With anticipated everyday ABs, Solak could finally reach his full potential at the plate as a big-league hitter and bounce back from a subpar 2020 offensive season. He posted a pedestrian .268/.326/.344 slash line last season and his power numbers took an especially big hit. However, while he posted a below-average 4.7 barrel rate, he showed marked improvement in exit velocity, maximum exit velocity, launch angle and hard hit rate. At his core, he's a disciplined, above-average contact hitter (82.1 contact rate in 2020) who possesses a blend of power and speed (91st percentile). With Solak's early preseason 182 ADP, you should be able to grab him in the 16th round of typical 12-team fantasy baseball drafts. His multi-position eligibility (2B/OF) adds to his fantasy value and makes him a player who could potentially outperform his ADP. Look for Solak to provide fantasy managers with an above-average batting average and at least 15 home run and 15 stolen base production this season. As a 26-year-old "late bloomer", his upside and potential for continued development make him a player to target in dynasty leagues as well.--Joe Gallina - RotoBaller