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Whit Merrifield 2019 Outlook: One Of The Most Reliable Base-stealers
In a few short years, the versatile Whit Merrifield has emerged from relative obscurity to a valuable fantasy asset. The two-time AL stolen bases champ, Merrifield also provides an above-average BA and double-digit HR along with strong runs scored and solid RBI for a lead-off hitter. Already 29, Merrifield is approaching an age where SB totals typically decline, especially for second basemen. Although he has less than three season in the majors, he did accumulate wear-in-tear in the minors in his early and mid-20s. So prospective fantasy owners should probably price in a decline in steals over the coming years (e.g., 25-35 rather than 35-45). Given the presence of fellow base-stealers Adalberto Mondesi and Billy Hamilton in the lineup, there is a chance that Merrifield moves from leadoff to second, which could help his RBI without hurting his R. With respect to HR, he could improve on the 12 he hit in 2018, as his HR/FB in 2018 was well below that measure in 2017 (19). On the other hand, his BA will likely regress as his 2018 .352 BABIP is probably unsustainable. Given the projected declines in BA and SB, Merrifield projects to be a top-60ish player rather than his current ADP of 31.
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