RADIO
Mitch Haniger 2021 Player Outlook: A Low-Risk, High-Reward Flyer
4 years agoSeattle Mariners outfielder Mitch Haniger was on the rise in 2018, producing an impressive 137 wRC+ with a .285-26-93-90-8 line. But that was right before the wheels fell off. He was limited to 283 plate appearances in 2019, while back and core injuries prevented him from taking the field at all in 2020. His draft stock has plummeted, as his current ADP is 287. This presents a unique buy-low opportunity, though. Haniger has looked fully healthy in spring training action so far. He has also been featured as a leadoff hitter in several games for the Mariners this spring. Even with his health struggles, he's never finished a season with a Hard Hit rate below 34.7% and has posted an ISO above .200 in each of his last three seasons, so he brings a track record of making consistent solid contact with power. He's likely to be forgotten by many, leaving a hitter with 20-homer potential hanging around until the end of drafts.
