Yasmani Grandal (CA, LAD) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in Most Leagues

Ownership: 29% of Fleaflicker leagues

ANALYSIS: Yasmani Grandal was a pre-season sleeper pick at the catcher position, and is rewarding those who decided to instill faith in the 26-year-old former 12th overall pick. He is currently ranked as the tenth best backstop for fantasy purposes, and his defense has received praise from many, as well. Another enticing part of Grandal’s performance thus far is that his line does not look unsustainable, he looks like he is simply becoming a better hitter as he enters his prime. And while his 22.2% home run per fly ball rate screams regression, the rest of his metrics show he has turned a corner and become a better offensive player.

So, what has Grandal changed to become such a quality hitter? He has dropped his strikeouts down nearly eight percent while boosting his walk rate beyond the 15% mark for the first time in his career. The Dodgers rank near the top of most offensive categories, and batting behind Adrian Gonzalez and Howie Kendrick has only helped Grandal’s opportunities this season. Grandal has always had pretty good skills with the bat, but combining those skills with top-notch plate discipline has pushed him into the upper echelon of offensive catchers.