MLB Trade Deadline Insights for Fantasy Baseball
With the MLB trade deadline approaching, those hooked on fantasy baseball are, well, feeling a bit of a thrill again.
Teams looking to improve are bringing in experienced talent, which likely means we won’t see many rookies until the roster expands in September. But for teams selling off players, it’s a different ballgame. They’re now tasked with rebuilding, and this opens the door for younger players to step up and showcase their skills for next season. This is where fantasy managers might find some gems, especially if they know which prospects are shining right now. If you’re in need of outfield help, the Marlins and the Orioles have some interesting options.
For example, the trade involving Jesus Sanchez and the Houston Astros has prompted the Marlins to reload their outfield with players like Troy Johnston and Jacob Marcy. Now, Johnston, who’s 28 and hasn’t exactly set the fantasy world on fire since 2019, might not catch your eye. He could be fast, sure, but there’s a reason this is his first call-up. On the other hand, Marcy, at 24, is a promising power/speed combination rising quickly through the Marlins’ ranks, bringing some much-needed plate discipline that can benefit any rookie player.
Marcy’s walk rate has been impressive—over 15% in the minors—while keeping his strikeouts under 23%. He’s become an on-base percentage dynamo, showing up in seven games since being called up with a notable number of walks.
His stats? One home run, four RBIs, four runs, and a stolen base. Sure, his batting average of .450 is buoyed by a .615 BABIP, and while a .577 on-base percentage might not be sustainable, a .350 OBP seems quite achievable. Add in the potential for power and speed, and you’ve got yourself an exciting player.
Potential Rising Stars
If Marcy isn’t on your league’s radar yet, keep an eye on the Orioles. They’re reportedly about to promote 23-year-old Dylan Beavers. In a recent chat, GM Mike Elias mentioned that getting Beavers some major league experience this year would be quite beneficial.
Beavers boasts a .309/.423/.538 slash line at Triple-A Norfolk, with 18 home runs and 22 stolen bases. Plus, changes to Camden Yards are giving left-handed batters like him a better chance. With his strong on-base skills and power-speed blend, he could slot nicely into the lineup.
As sellers look to offload players at the trade deadline, be prepared for Marcy and Beavers to catch their chances. A smart fantasy manager would be proactive, making room for these young talents now rather than waiting until it’s September. The rookie rush is underway!
