WAF 212 – Barrel Rate Standouts & Surprises

Van and Steve talk hitter improvements that could stick in 2026.

Wins Above Fantasy – Van Burnett (@Van_Verified) Steve Gesuele (@stav8818) break down early-season barrel rate trends now that batted ball data has begun to stabilize. They revisit last year’s approach—starting with barrel rate and layering in supporting metrics like pull air%, hard-hit rates, and plate skills—to identify 2026 standouts, underperformers, and year-to-year improvers. The episode focuses on hitters making meaningful skill changes (stance, swing decisions, contact quality), and what those changes might mean for fantasy value going forward.

Subscribe to the Pitcher List Newsletter

Your daily update on everything Pitcher List

Steve Gesuele

Steve Gesuele is a fantasy baseball enthusiast who has been playing since 2012. He takes pride in participating in his competitive home league- The League of Champions. He was the sports editor at Loyola University Maryland where he covered their men's basketball team and NCAA-champion men's lacrosse team. He is a die-hard New Jersey Devils fan currently residing in Hoboken, NJ.

Account / Login