6 years agoBoston Red Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi proved that the Sophomore Slump theory could be debunked. He followed up a 20HR/20SB rookie campaign in 2017 with an equally impressive season in 2018; he hit 16 homers, stole 21 bases, and scored 103 runs. Benintendi’s entire slash line increased to .290/.366/.465. While he only hit four fewer homers in 2018, Benintendi did see a significant drop in power in the shorter of the two halves of 2018 (14 first-half homers, vs. just two in the second half) due to a ground-ball rate increase and pull rate decrease. It's tough to conclude if there's something to be worried about here, but it's worth noting that Benintendi's hard-hit rate and fly-ball rate both decreased by solid margins from 2017 to 2018. Pegging him for 20+ homers is not advisable. However, he should be a safe bet to finish in the 15-20 range, and his high volume of extra-base hits (63 in 2018) gives him a very solid floor. Another point of optimism, Benintendi will continue to set the table in the most dominant lineup in baseball. He will bat leadoff right ahead of the 2018 American League Most Valuable Player, Mookie Betts, and a Silver Slugger recipient, J.D. Martinez. Benintendi’s combination of power, speed, and excellent plate discipline will ensure he is a top-25 pick and top-10 OF with upside in redraft Leagues, and an even more desirable commodity in dynasty leagues.--Ellis Canady - RotoBaller