RADIO
Ramon Laureano 2022 Player Outlook: Should Provide Value Once Suspension Is Over
3 years agoOakland Athletics outfielder Ramon Laureano (suspension) was suspended 80 games for violating MLB's PED policy and has 27 games remaining on his suspension. He underwent core surgery to address a sports hernia last October but is expected to be ready when his suspension is lifted in May. Before the suspension, the 27-year-old slashed .246/.317/.413 while posting .459 XSLG and .327 wOBA over 88 games. His barrel rate increased from 9.4% in 2020 to 10.4% in 2021, while his hard-hit percentage rose from 34.4% to 40.2%. Once Laureano returns from suspension, he will hit near the top of the order as the team's everyday centerfielder. The A's outfielder should hit around 20 homers and swipe 10 bags in 2022. ATC/Cutter projections are on board with this assessment and projecting Laureano to hit .254 with 20 long balls and 13 stolen bases over 500 plate appearances. According to Rotoballer's Expected Draft Values, ATC's projections make Laureano roughly fair value at his ADP of 269. Laureano is in the prime of his career and should produce for fantasy managers once he returns from suspension.
