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Cole Ragans 2025 Player Outlook: Solid Fantasy Option In Ace Tier Mix
29 mins agoKansas City Royals starting pitcher Cole Ragans proved in 2024 that his 2023 breakout was not a fluke. The 27-year-old had an excellent first full season, going 11-9 with a 3.14 ERA, a 1.14 WHIP, and a 29.3% strikeout rate in 186 1/3 innings pitched over 32 starts. None of his pitches had a swinging-strike rate below 9.0%. His changeup and slider were particularly devastating, with 26.5% and 14.8% swing-strike rates. Ragans also took a step forward with his walk issues, limiting free passes to a career-low 8.8%. The first-time All-Star is currently being drafted at about pick 48 overall, making him the 12th starting pitcher off the board. Ragans may have slightly more WHIP risk than the starters going immediately ahead of him, but he doesn't offer any more injury risk than the likes of Chris Sale and Jacob deGrom. The tier of fantasy aces is not as clear as it has been in previous seasons, but Ragans belongs there. His actual rank will likely come down to fantasy manager preference, but his current ADP is right in line.
