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Yainer Diaz 2024 Outlook: Breakout Of The Year Potential
11 months agoHouston Astros catcher Yainer Diaz appears to be ready to take off after a strong rookie campaign in 2023. Diaz was limited in playing time last year but was still able to bash 23 homers while recording decent counting stats and a solid .282 average in just 355 at-bats. His underlying metrics back the strong numbers up, as Diaz led all catchers in xwOBA with a .360 mark. Although the 25-year-old isn't an on-base machine and strikes out a decent amount, evidenced by his 2.9 BB% and 19.7 K%, he makes up for it by hitting the ball hard (43.9 Hard-Hit%). He has all the makings of a true breakout hitter, but he needs the playing time to harness his full potential. Fortunately, Diaz was named the starting catcher back in November. With only Victor Caratini signed to back him up, this is a prime opportunity for Diaz. He will likely hit in the middle of a solid Astros lineup, meaning his counting stats should see a sharp increase. On top of this, it wouldn't be a surprise if Diaz led catchers in homers this year. At his current ADP of 109, Diaz carries some risk, but also tremendous upside. This ADP is well worth his potential, which is a top-tier fantasy backstop.
