What is up party people? Every year a guy looks like the next big thing. Unfortunately, sometimes, it takes a little time. Wyatt Langford is that guy this year. Finally, the talent has won out. He can hit for the cycle and that means he can do everything else. We expected (or at least I wanted) him to be the next big thing. Looks like I was a year too early for his big breakout. I’m not sure where I’ll have him in my rankings but I think I will be way too into him. Rookie of the year is out, but it seems like he’s adjusted to major league pitching. And that’s a beautiful sight.
Lawrence Butler – Tough to be hotter than Butler is at the moment but that’s what a batting average approaching .500 with 6 home runs while barely striking out will get you. The most impressive part of that has to be the insane lack of Ks. In general, his strike out rate has been fine but even over the last month he has cut it by about 10 points. Even if it does creep back up into the low 20s, as long as the power is still there you won’t be too disappointed.
Brent Rooker – Oakland feels like a fantasy wasteland but there is actually some talent there. Rooker isn’t a huge surprise and forced his way onto the radar by virtue of his power. Still, it is always nice to see it play out. That’s now back to back 30 home run seasons and if he can keep the hot streak going he just might sneak his way to 40.
Julio Rodriguez – There’s no way around it, he has not been what you wanted from a first round pick. Realistically, he hasn’t been that bad but not worthy of his lofty draft status. However, despite all reports to the contrary, he is alive. If you’re stuck with him this long, you deserve some commendation. I refuse to believe that he doesn’t have the tools to be a star. It looks like he will be finishing the season strong and I think that he will be a high draft pick next year.
Francisco Lindor – Let’s give this man his due. He has put up an MVP worthy season. I liked him going into the season but I did not expect that he would be quite this good. He is staring down a 30/30 season and that should be celebrated.
Seth Brown – You thought we were done with Oakland hitters? Think again. He’s been hot. Maybe next year he’ll actually be good. For now, he has some power and some speed. If you’re looking for that last minute boost to your team, Brown just might be your answer.
Garrett Mitchell – He is definitely not the sexy option, but he has popped off. Power and speed, he has both. It may not last but if you’ve made it this far, ride the hot hand.
JJ Bleday – Power, yep. The question was could he hit for enough average for it to matter? So far, the answer has been yes. His average hasn’t been great but it has been acceptable. He is definitely in the category of a guy who has shown enough to be very interesting next season.
Josh Jung – Took him a while to get going but that’s not a surprise given that he missed most of the season due to injury. If he’s healthy going into next season he will likely be a target of mine. As for this season, he might just put you over the top. Jung has pop and should pair that with a decent average. Not the most glowing recommendation, I know but if you need a corner infielder, he just might be your ticket to the top.
Mickey Moniak – I’m not sure that he’s good but over the past week, he sure looks like he is. Limited value as long as he’s trapped in a platoon role. If he can break out of that role we might have something. For now, ride the hot hand and hope for the best.
Lars Nootbaar – He is risen. As long as he has a spot in the starting lineup he is someone you should pay attention to. He’s got some pop, not a ton, but enough to make things interesting. He also has a touch of speed. We’re not looking at a super star but we do have the missing piece that can carry you to a championship.
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