Fantasy baseball: Capitalize on Athletics slew of sluggers
Entering the year with tempered expectations because of their ongoing rebuild and a temporary move to Sacramento, Calif., the A’s have defied skeptics with an offensive explosion that has fantasy baseball managers scrambling to roster their hitters.The combination of a hitter-friendly ballpark and a young, talented lineup has turned their bats into the darlings of the fantasy community, delivering consistent production that shows no signs of slowing down.Leading the charge is first baseman Tyler Soderstrom, who has blossomed into a fantasy superstar.
Soderstrom’s nine home runs and 24 RBIs pace the team, backed by an impressive .390 wOBA that underscores his ability to generate high-quality contact.His .306 BABIP suggests his early success is more skill than luck, and with regular at-bats in the heart of the lineup, he is a must-start in all formats.
At just 23 years old, Soderstrom’s breakout is a testament to his potential as a former first-round pick, and his power surge at Sutter Health Park makes him a cornerstone for fantasy rosters.Outfielder Brent Rooker has continued his slugging ways with eight home runs, and though his .252 batting average has room for growth, his ability to barrel balls in a park that rewards fly balls has kept his fantasy stock soaring.Rooker’s multi-hit performances highlight his consistency as a run producer, making him a steal for those who drafted him around his preseason ADP.Similarly, catcher Shea Langeliers has been a revelation behind the plate, smashing six home runs and posting a .766 OPS.
His power output at a thin position, combined with a park that amplifies his hard contact, makes him a top-tier fantasy backstop.Shortstop Jacob Wilson has dazzled with his elite plate discipline, batting .331 with an .805 OPS and just six strikeouts in 118 at-bats.His ability to spray hits across the field while maintaining a low whiff rate makes him a batting average boon with sneaky pop for a contact-oriented hitter.Outfielder...