Jonathan Schoop (2B, BAL) - 2015 Fantasy Baseball Sleeper

BALLER MOVE: Target Late in Deep Leagues

ANALYSIS: Set to be the starting second baseman for the Orioles, Jonathan Schoop has the potential to be an everyday fantasy starter in 2015.  In 2014, he hit .209 with 16 HR, 45 RBI and only 13 walks in 481 plate appearances, which indicates a free-swinger. Schoop will undoubtedly work with coaches and make adjustments in the offseason, particularly with his plate discipline, having swung at at pitches outside of the strike zone about 10 percent more often than league average.

These are not overnight processes, but improving to even a .260 average would be huge because of his 20-25 HR potential. Getting that kind of power out of the second base spot in your lineup is rare, especially in rotisserie leagues. Schoop will probably start the season at the bottom of the lineup. If he can improve the average, he can move up and have plenty of opportunities for RBI. He is a Gold Glove-caliber infielder, as well, which helps his chances of remaining with the Orioles even if it takes time for him to get going.

Schoop's youth and lack of plate discipline need to be addressed before I’m comfortable considering him an everyday fantasy starter, but I believe he will make these adjustments and start to realize the potential that kept him on the field in 2014. I won’t predict a breakout season, but definitely an improved one.