Fantasy Spotlight: Giancarlo Stanton
Throughout the month of March, theScore examines hitters who represent their team's most intriguing fantasy plays. This edition focuses on Miami Marlins outfielder Giancarlo Stanton.
2015 in Review: 316 PA, .265/.346/.606, 47 R, 27 HR, 67 RBI, 4 SB
The Good: Stanton can absolutely crush the ball. He comes with a floor of 30 homers and the upside for 40+. In 74 games last season, he hit a monstrous 27 dingers; imagine if he had played a full campaign. With home run potential of that nature, Stanton brings 40-100-100 production into play.
The Bad: Injuries and extended absences have plagued Stanton's young career. Stanton missed more than half of 2015 with a wrist injury, while in 2013 a hamstring issue sidelined him for close to two months. Below is a quick look at his games played since 2012:
| YEAR | GP |
|---|---|
| 2012 | 123 |
| 2013 | 116 |
| 2014 | 145 |
| 2015 | 74 |
Best Comparison: White Sox 1B Jose Abreu
What's in Store: Assuming Stanton stays healthy, he is a stud right fielder who will bat in the heart of Miami's order. His season totals should come in around 35 home runs, 85 runs scored, and 95 RBIs. Projections peg him for a slash line around .275/.370/.575
Draft Outlook: Even with his injury history, Stanton is a sure-fire first round pick in mixed league formats. He may not go in the top five, but he will be selected shortly after that point. Fantasy owners will just have to decide if they want to run the risk of injury with their first draft pick.