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ANALYSIS: Seattle Mariners catcher Mike Zunino has seemed like a breakout candidate for multiple seasons now. While he has not become the dynamic catcher Seattle hoped, Zunino remains one of the best power-hitting catchers in the league. With the catcher position so weak in fantasy, it does not hurt to have a guy like Zunino in that spot.
On the season, Zunino has hit just .197 with 13 home runs, 33 RBI and 22 runs scored. His batting average is undoubtedly ugly, however, he has five straight seasons of double digit home runs, including 25 last year.
Zunino is certainly a risk/reward type prospect. However, at catcher, with only so many "sure-fire" options, it does not hurt to take a chance. Last season, his 25 home runs ranked third among catchers while his 64 RBI ranked seventh. He will need to limit the strikeouts and get a bit more consistent at the plate, but there is no reason Zunino cannot reach 20 home runs and 50 RBI in 2018.
He is one of the riskier options on the market, but not many catchers are available that offer legit 25+ home run potential. If you are in need of offense and have a hole at catcher, it might be worth taking a chance on Zunino's bat.
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