Unveiling the Gems and Risks: Exploring Fantasy Baseball’s Second Base Landscape in 2024
The recent release of the top 50 dynasty second basemen for fantasy baseball has sparked excitement among enthusiasts. Geoff Pontes and Dylan White, renowned experts in the field, have shared their invaluable insights on potential targets, sleepers, and fades in this position. Their expertise, along with a plethora of strategy articles, can be found in BA’s Fantasy Baseball 2024 HQ.
One intriguing target is Nolan Gorman from the Cardinals. Gorman’s exceptional performance in the minor leagues validated the scouting reports, as he launched an impressive 27 home runs in 2023 before a hamstring injury halted his season. At just 23 years old, Gorman appears undervalued as a dynasty second baseman. Though concerns about his defensive capabilities and high strikeout rate persist, his potential to consistently hit 25 to 30 home runs makes him a coveted asset.
Another player worth targeting is Davis Schneider, who hails from the Blue Jays. Schneider had a record-setting debut but faced some struggles towards the end of the season. However, his low chase rate and high out-of-zone called strikes suggest that he may not have received favorable calls from umpires. With above-average batting potential and arm strength suitable for second base, Schneider presents an enticing opportunity.
Andres Gimenez, donning the Guardians’ jersey, is another player deserving of consideration. Despite a slightly disappointing 2023 season marked by a dip in batting average on balls in play, signs of improvement in power and contact skills provide hope. At 25 years old, Gimenez could exhibit incremental gains in his skillset, potentially transforming into a 20-home run and 30-stolen base threat.
Brandon Lowe of the Rays presents an intriguing case due to his injury history. Despite significant time missed due to various ailments, Lowe has consistently delivered when healthy. Over the past three seasons, he ranks third in weighted runs created plus (wRC+) among second basemen. Though concerns about his durability persist, his track record of production makes him a calculated gamble.
Turning our attention to sleepers, Tyler Black of the Brewers emerges as a player to monitor closely. As the Brewers’ fourth-ranked prospect, Black has showcased impressive hitting ability and plate discipline. Though his exact position remains uncertain, a potential call-up in the latter half of the year could propel him into the fantasy spotlight.
Thomas Saggese, representing the Cardinals, is another sleeper to watch. As the leader in hits and total bases among all minor leaguers in 2023, Saggese’s statcast data may not be awe-inspiring. However, his strong contact skills hint at the potential for average performance as a second baseman, with the possibility of exceeding expectations in future seasons.
Jace Jung, a Tigers prospect, deserves recognition as an underrated power hitter. Demonstrating solid contact skills and a plate approach, Jung’s exit velocity and expected power numbers place him among the elite companies. With limited barriers to a full-time role in the Tigers’ lineup, he could prove to be a valuable fantasy asset.
Juan Brito, also affiliated with the Guardians, merits consideration as well. Despite a somewhat underwhelming performance following the Nolan Jones trade, Brito has displayed impressive plate skills and an ability to elevate the ball. With added strength, he has the potential to develop 20-homer power in the future.
On the flip side, there are players to exercise caution with, such as Marcus Semien from the Rangers. Though Semien has been highly productive in recent years, his fantasy value is heavily dependent on plate appearances. There exists a certain degree of risk regarding a potential decline in performance or a decrease in plate appearances, which could impact his value. Considering a trade involving Semien in dynasty leagues may be prudent to maximize returns.
Luis Arraez of the Marlins is another player warranting careful consideration. While he has maintained consistency as a performer, his overall fantasy value does not match his lofty batting average. Not finishing within the top 10 at the position for the past three seasons raises questions about his true value and whether he may be overrated in most leagues.
These rankings, sleepers, and fades offer valuable insights for fantasy baseball enthusiasts seeking to make strategic decisions in the second base position.