RADIO
Austin Riley 2019 Outlook: Maybe A Season Too Early, But An Exciting Player Nonetheless
6 years agoAustin Riley enters the year as one of the top-rated prospects in the game, but with the mega-signing of Josh Donaldson, he looks to be starting the season at Triple-A. At that level, in 2018, Riley slashed .282/.346/.464 with 12 homers and 47 RBI in 75 games. The K-rate was high at 29.3%, but an eight-percent walk rate shows this is not just a free swinger. Concerning 2019 prospects, Riley should make an appearance with the team, but that depends on Donaldson’s health more than anything. Even with playing time, owners should limit their expectations. According to scouts, the swing is big and long, meaning there will be some issues maintaining the batting average with the Braves. And yet, the power metrics hint that he should be able to hit bombs from day one. With that, expect a sub-.240 batting average, but plus power with the call, meaning he is not a fit for all fantasy teams. The skills are real, and he should be a draft target in 2020, but for now, that 618 ADP is mighty appealing for late rounds or FAAB bids. One final note, there is some word that he might slot into the outfield as the need arises with the Braves, so there are other paths to playing time, even if not the most likely scenario.
