4 years agoOakland Athletics catcher Sean Murphy became the team's primary backstop in 2020, and given that it was his first full season in the role, he performed well. In 43 games, Murphy hit seven homers and put together a solid .233/.364/.457 slash line, aided by an outstanding 17.1% walk rate. While his batting average isn't likely to venture north of .260 anytime soon, Murphy has displayed solid power with 11 homers in 63 career MLB games. Last season, he ranked in the 83rd percentile for barrel rate and 91st percentile for hard-hit rate and exit velocity. Although we only have a small major league sample size, 20 homers and a .245 average is realistic for Murphy in 2021. Despite predominantly hitting in the ninth spot of the A's lineup, Murphy still managed to score 21 runs and drive in 14. The A's ranked 16th in runs scored in 2020, and although they've lost Marcus Semien, they have a healthy Matt Chapman returning, so Oakland could be an average offense again this year. Murphy is also regarded as one of the best defensive catchers in the game, which will ensure regular playing time, even if he struggles offensively. Murphy currently has an ADP of around 164 (ninth among catchers), and he could have something of a breakout season and be a top-five fantasy catching option by season's end.--Jamie Steed - RotoBaller