The 2020 MLB season is going to happen! Maybe. And we could probably have baseball! So, that means it is time to take a look back at our draft prep from back in the pre-Covid era. What year was that?
Below I’ve got some interesting shortstop sleepers for the 60-game season. The designated hitter coming to the National League should help some players see more work this season, but playing time is what we need to keep an eye on for most sleepers as we draft and work waivers.
Didi Gregorius, Philadelphia Phillies
Gregorius hit 27 homers in 134 games in 2018, 25 homers in 136 games in 2017, and 16 homers in 82 games in 2019r. He’ll go from a hitter friendly Yankee Stadium to another hitter friendly park in Philadelphia, so I’m not worried about a dip. He’s sitting at 200th ADP and the 29th shortstop off the board. That’s value.
Dansby Swanson, Atlanta Braves
In the first half of 2019, Swanson put up a .270 average with 17 home runs, 58 RBI, and seven steals. A foot injury slowed him down in the second half, but his overall batted-ball profile added to his actual statistics in the first half push him into a target for me this season. He can be had cheap as the 32nd shortstop and 252nd player taken in drafts. Add to that a strong lineup to hit in and I’m on board.
Jon Berti, Miami Marlins
In 2019, Berti hit a .273 average and .348 on-base percentage along with six home runs and 17 steals in 287 plate appearances. His stolen bases and multi-position eligibility are a big boost to his value. He needs playing time to be useful and as a utility player he should find enough in this lineup.
David Fletcher, Los Angeles Angels
Last season Fletcher played four different positions in the last twenty games. He also added centerfield to his bag of tricks in spring training. His strong plate discipline makes him a good leadoff hitter, but we aren’t sure what will happen there with Joe Maddon at the helm. The good news is that Fletcher should see at bats almost daily and has great position eligibility while also sporting a great contact rate.