Will Venable has been a top fifty fantasy outfielder thus far this year yet he continues to fly under the radar.
Analysis: Venable’s line this year looks like this- 10 HR, 9 SB, 26 R, 26 RBI, .228 BA. Yes, his average is not up to par with his career .251 mark but his BABIP this year is .050 points below his career average. As far as power/speed combos go only eight other players in baseball this year have at least 10 home runs and 9 stolen bases. With his numbers it is shocking to see him available in 85-97% of fantasy leagues considering he is on pace for a 20/20 season.
Venable is currently outproducing Vernon Wells, Melky Cabrera, Josh Hamilton, Ichiro and Denard Span in roto leagues. Despite his production he continues to be passed on and looked over in the fantasy world. He is on pace for a career year in terms of home runs but his steals and runs are reliable while his batting average will pick up going forward. There aren’t many power/speed guys like this available on the wire but because he plays for the Padres he will continue to fly under the radar.