Eeny, Meeny, Miny, Nimmo

Brandon Nimmo (NYM): 2-4, 2 HR, 2 R, 2 RBI.

While Brandon Nimmo typically fills the boxscore by taking four balls in a single at-bat, last night went vastly different for the Mets’ outfielder. Instead of working counts and getting on base for others to drive in the runs, Nimmo decided to take the bat into his own hands. Undoubtedly, the 2-4, 2 HR, 2 R, 2 RBI night is not the norm, but he’s shown more power this season. He’s touting a new career-high in max exit velocity of 111.5-MPH, which is nearly two ticks higher than before.

Let’s look at some backstory; Nimmo was a former first-round pick back in 2011 when they selected him 13th overall. Since then, he’s rose the ranks fairly quickly to be a mainstay atop the lineup for several years. However, he’s mainly been utilized against RHP due to his splits difference. This season has been a bit different, though. Nimmo sports an OPS of .858 vs. LHP and .852 vs. RHP. If he can unlock the ability to master hitting against pitchers from either handedness consistently, Nimmo could be in store for a tremendous season.

 

Let’s see how the other hitters did Friday.

Tyler O’Neill (STL): 3-4, 2B, 2 HR, 3 R, 2 RBI, SB.

The Cardinals won, again! Included in the victory over division rival Cubs is a combo meal for O’Neill. The St Louis outfielder has broken out in a significant way this season. His 52% hard-hit rate and 18% barrel rate put him in elite company and help overlook that he’s striking out over 31% of the time. Although, he’s more than a power bat, as shown by the 15 stolen bases. What can’t Tyler O’Neill do these days?

Hunter Dozier (KC): 3-5, HR, 2 R, 2 RBI, SB.

The combo meal will keep some fantasy managers interested come next draft season. Although, when we look back on his 2021 performance, it won’t be so favorable. His K% sits near 30%, and the batting average lingers just north of the Mendoza line(.200). Furthermore, when you mix those two elements with a paltry .399 SLG%, you’re left with a batter hitting under .700 in terms of OPS. No, thanks; I will pass on the Dozier train next season.

Danny Jansen (TOR): 2-4, 2B, HR, 2 R, 3 RBI.

Even with all the big boppers in Toronto, the bat that arguably did the most damage last night was Danny Jansen. His 434-foot blast started the scoring, and the team never looked back as they went on to victory. He will finish the season with a wRC+ that suggests he is a replacement-level player, but he will be viable deep league formats given the stout defense and good thump.

Cole Tucker (PIT): 2-5, 3B, HR, 2 R, 4 RBI.

The 24-year-old prospect only had six RBI in 102 at-bats before last night’s performance. Although, when it’s your night, it’s simply your night. Tucker spent most of 2021 in Triple-A, where he showcased a 100 wRC+ and terrific plate discipline by walking nearly 16% of the time. However, the next time Tucker puts up an ISO over .152 for any stretch, it’ll be his first.

Nathaniel Lowe (TEX): 3-3, HR, 2 R, RBI, BB.

As the first full season of “Free Nate Lowe” concludes, we can say the power might be a little less than expectations, but the overall production was lovely. Furthermore, Lowe’s cut his strikeout rate by nearly 12%, and the zone contact took a much-needed step forward. Additionally, his eight stolen bases were a pleasant surprise since he rarely attempted any in prior seasons. Let’s hope next season comes with even more improvements and becomes must-see TV.

Adalberto Mondesi (KC): 2-4, 2 2B, 2 R, RBI, BB.

Unfortunately, the theme of 2021 was much like the last couple of years for Mondesi. Due to injury, he finds himself getting less than 150 at-bats but flashes elite skills on the base paths. The vast number of strikeouts is a leading contributor to his low OBP. Additionally, the plate discipline is still a concern as his K-rate is over 30%. Although the basic skills are robust, I am sure he will go early in next year’s fantasy drafts.

Byron Buxton (MIN): 3-5, 2 2B, 2 R.

My goodness, if only Byron Buxton could stay healthy for a season. In only 58 games scattered throughout the season, Buxton has 18 HRs and nine stolen bases with a .299/.354/.629 slash line. What’s even more unreal is the fact Buxton has 45 runs in such few games. Every year we are left scratching our heads in March, wondering where to draft someone like this. Well, guess what, we get to do it all over again next year. Ugh.

Hunter Renfroe (BOS): 1-4, HR, R, 3 RBI.

In a game that Boston had to keep pace with the Yankees and Mariners, Renfroe’s only hard-hit ball was a go-ahead three-run shot in the sixth inning. It’s been a strange run for Renfroe as this is his third new team in three seasons. However, Boston looks like the perfect landing spot for him. He’s cut his K-rate to better than league-average and maintaining the herculean power stroke we know.

Starling Marte (OAK): 1-4, 2 R, 2 SB.

The two swiped bags bring Marte’s total to a ridiculous 47 on the season, tying a career-high. Maybe even more impressive is the consistency in which Marte’s done it. He has 20 SB for two different teams, 22 with the Marlins and 25 with the Athletics. Given his high batting average and dashing dominance on the basepaths, Marte is making a solid case to be considered a first-round pick in 2022 fantasy drafts.

Tim Anderson (CWS): 4-4, 2B, 2 R, RBI, BB.

TA7 was perfect at the dish and brought his batting average up to .306 on the season. Which has become somewhat of a signature to Anderson’s game as this marks the third consecutive season with such a feat. Barring an outstanding finish to the season, Anderson will fall short of the illustrious 20/20 season. However, he only played a little more than 120 games, making him a prime target for the next season in roto leagues.

 

Featured Imaged by Ethan Kaplan (@DJFreddie10 on Twitter)