Tag: Will Venable

BJ Upton Update

BJ Upton was activated from the disabled list five days ago and has put together a solid stretch. He is capable of being a top twenty fantasy outfielder as long as his BABIP returns to his career average.

Analysis: BJ Upton has ten hits and is on a five game hitting streak since his return from the disabled list. He’s also added 3 stolen bases in that five game span and it appears that Upton is finally back. He’s still batting just .198 but his BABIP is .043 points lower this year compared to his career average. At the moment BJ is available in 30-40% of fantasy leagues. His batting average won’t be anything special going forward but his power/speed package is not matched by many in the fantasy world.

Upton isn’t the only power/speed option available on the wire. Will Venable has 13 home runs, 13 stolen bases and is hitting .251 this year. He’s available in 85-95% of fantasy leagues. Robbie Grossman of the Astros has 3 home runs and 6 stolen bases in just 38 games this year. Grossman is available in 70-80% of fantasy leagues.

Under The Radar- Venable

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.