Outlook Austin Riley
Elite Pedigree Makes Austin Riley a Premium Corner Infield Investment
Austin Riley enters the season securely locked in as the everyday starter at third base for a powerhouse Atlanta lineup. At 29 years old, Riley is in the absolute physical prime of his career, boasting an exceptionally clean health record and an elite everyday role that guarantees him maximum plate appearances. Batting in the heart of one of baseball's most relentless offenses, he is positioned to run driving counts and pile up massive runs and RBI numbers while benefiting from excellent protection in the batting order.
Our projections expect Riley to be a major five-category contributor, highlighted by nearly 22 home runs, 78 runs scored, and 78 RBIs over 573 at-bats. While our model projects a highly productive .260 batting average and a .309 on-base percentage, his career metrics suggest even higher upside, having previously registered seasons with a .283 average and 39 homers. His power is legitimate to all fields, making him a safe bet to easily clear the 20-homer threshold while providing stable ratios that won't sink your team's average.
Given his ADP hovering around the early-to-mid rounds, Riley represents an incredibly safe floor with an elite ceiling. He is a premier target for managers looking to anchor the third base position early with a proven contributor who lacks the playing-time risks of younger prospects or platoons. Draft him with confidence as a cornerstone of your fantasy infield.
Updated 3 days ago
Latest News Austin Riley
Outlook Brayan Rocchio
Brayan Rocchio's Hot Bat Secures His Spot as a Must-Start Option
Rocchio has been absolutely locked in at the plate, batting .324 with a .405 OBP over his last 14 days for the first-place Guardians. As the everyday starting shortstop with backup Gabriel Arias on the 60-day injured list, Rocchio's playing time is incredibly secure. His excellent play on both sides of the ball is helping Cleveland maintain its division lead despite a current two-game skid.
While Rocchio's current season average of .293 is a massive leap from his career .216 mark in 2024, our models suggest some regression is likely. Our rest-of-season projections expect him to settle closer to a .236 average with modest power. However, his elite contact skills and seven steals over the last month suggest his speed and run-scoring potential remain highly sustainable.
Cleveland hits the road for six games, starting with a challenging three-game set against the Yankees before facing the Rangers. Rocchio faces tough assignments like Gerrit Cole and Jacob deGrom, but also gets favorable matchups against high-ERA arms like Jack Leiter. Given his hot bat and everyday role, he remains a solid option this week. Start him.
Updated 3 days ago
