RADIO
Billy Hamilton Remains Elite Base-Stealing Threat
7 years agoIn 2017, Cincinnati Reds outfielder Billy Hamilton enjoyed his healthiest season since the 2014 campaign, appearing in 139 games for his team. The speedy outfielder finished the season with a .247/.299/.335 slash line along with four homers, 85 runs, and 38 RBI while finishing second in all of baseball with 59 stolen bases. Hamilton is likely to return to center field for the Reds this upcoming season, although there were some trade rumors regarding him during the offseason, with him most recently being linked to the San Francisco Giants. The Reds allowed Hamilton to hit leadoff in 2017 despite his low batting average and on-base numbers. As long as he remains there, he will be a solid source for runs scored while the additional plate appearances will give him ample opportunities to steal bases. Hamilton's speed on the basepaths is what makes him fantasy relevant as there are few who can match his upside in the stolen base department. Hamilton's fantasy owners will have to hope he remains atop the Cincinnati batting order. If he were to be moved down to the bottom of the order, it would put a significant dent in his season-long outlook and lower his fantasy value accordingly.
