In the unpredictable realm of fantasy baseball, there’s a notable distinction between “chasing the point” and “riding the wave.” Chasing is essentially reacting—it’s about acquiring a player who’s already cooled off but doing so at a steep price. On the other hand, riding the wave means recognizing and capitalizing on a player’s upward momentum without overthinking how long it might last.
If your team is in need of power hitters at the moment, two seasoned players are defying the typical aging trend by embracing the modern hitting concept of launch angle.
Take Ildemaro Vargas from Arizona, for example. At 34, he’s a prime example of someone truly “riding the wave.”
Usually seen as a utility player, Vargas has evolved into a significant offensive contributor. Right now, he’s in the midst of an impressive 18-game hitting streak, boasting a batting line of .357/.375/.671 during this stretch.
What’s even more remarkable is how he’s been making impactful contact, accumulating five home runs, 16 RBIs, and 14 runs over the past three weeks.
The transformation isn’t just a stroke of luck; it’s backed by data. Last season, Vargas faced a frustrating average launch angle of just 3.2 degrees. This year, however, he’s improved that number to 7.4 degrees. He still manages a lot of line drives, but he’s adjusting his swing to elevate the ball more effectively, enabling him to clear the outfield fence.
This approach mirrors what we saw from Yandy Diaz two seasons back. In his 32nd year, Diaz swapped his penchant for ground balls for a more elevated hitting style, which led to a dramatic increase in his power numbers. Vargas seems to be on a similar trajectory and could serve various roles in the infield, making him an excellent “plug-and-play” option while his hot streak lasts.
Meanwhile, Dominic Smith offers a different scenario. He’s like a swell that’s gaining momentum before it peaks. The Braves’ first baseman and designated hitter is currently enjoying an eight-game hitting streak, achieving a batting average of .379/.387/.655 in that time, with two home runs and nine RBIs.
What’s appealing about Smith at this juncture isn’t just his .276 ISO but also the opportunities he has. The Braves currently lack a solid right-handed partner for him, which means he’s getting to play almost every day, facing only the top left-handed pitchers.
For those managing fantasy teams, this kind of playing time is crucial. When a player like Smith is consistently at the plate for a dynamic lineup like Atlanta’s, it’s only natural for the performance metrics to improve.
As we navigate through the lengthy 162-game season, it’s easy to get hung up on the idea of sustainability. You might see Vargas’s impressive 18-game streak and think you’ve missed your chance. But it’s vital to remember that the aim isn’t to find a player who will hit .350 for the next six months, but rather to focus on players who are performing well right now.
Both Vargas and Smith are enjoying a favorable phase. Their methods are sharp, their confidence is soaring, and their roles are stable. So, pick them up, enjoy the ride, but also keep an eye on the horizon—be ready to jump ship when their performance starts to wane.
