Strategies for Fantasy Baseball Rebounds

Injuries and disappointing performances can derail a fantasy baseball season. But they can also open the door for players who are poised for a comeback.

Take, for instance, two outfielders: Josh Lowe from the Rays and Michael Harris II of the Braves. Both have the potential to deliver significant returns for fantasy managers willing to take a chance on them.

Lowe’s 2025 season has already been affected by injuries—a problem that seems to follow him throughout his career. After hitting the injured list once again, he made a solid impression in his first game back.

While his ongoing health issues raise concerns, it’s almost impossible for fantasy managers to predict injuries. Instead, the focus should be on Lowe’s current potential now that he’s back on the field.

This year, he showcased an impressive combination of power and speed with a .292/.335/.500 batting line, including 20 home runs and 32 stolen bases in just 135 games. That performance hints at his ability to contribute across multiple categories.

His quick return this season may indicate that he’s ready to continue that momentum. The real question is whether he can minimize his strikeouts. His 2023 strikeout rate sat at a manageable 24.2%, but if that number continues to rise, it could drag down his batting average and hinder his ability to steal bases.

If Lowe can rein in those strikeouts, he could easily replicate his earlier success, positioning himself as a top-25 outfielder.

Similarly, Harris has also been a bit of a letdown in fantasy leagues. Although he successfully stole seven bases, his overall production has lagged, with a disappointing batting average around .231.

That said, a closer look at his metrics suggests that a recovery might be on the horizon. Harris’ plate discipline appears sound, maintaining walk and strikeout rates consistent with his career averages.

The issue seems to stem from the quality of his contact. His hard-hit rate sits at 39.9%, and his barrel rate has suffered a surprising drop from the 2022-23 figures.

The mechanical problems in his swing seem to be the culprit, resulting in weaker hits than usual. Coupled with a .261 BABIP, which is about 80 points lower than his career average, he seems to be battling a bit of bad luck.

Fortunately, the Braves coaching staff is skilled at helping players adapt throughout the season. Given that Harris was once a top prospect, he has the talent to get back on track.

If he can restore his hard-hit profile, expect him to shine again with potential outputs of 15-20 home runs and 20 or more stolen bases. His youth, past achievements, and strong position in the lineup make him a solid target in all fantasy formats. It may be wise to act quickly before his bat normalizes and his value increases.

Both Lowe and Harris are significant rebound candidates in the outfield. Keep an eye on their performances, but don’t hesitate to add them to your roster. Their best days in 2025 might be just around the corner.