RADIO
Mark Melancon 2021 Player Outlook: Increased Draft Value Due To Consistency
4 years agoDespite only playing in 23 games in the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, Mark Melancon continued to prove his value on the field. Melancon had eleven saves in 2020, following a 2019 season in which he went 5-2 with 12 saves while playing for the Giants and Braves. The Braves' bullpen was filled with talent in 2020, requiring Melancon to have a break every now and then. With a potentially full season, the 35-year-old could end up providing a boost to any bullpen. In 2019 he almost tied his career high in strikeouts with 68 punchouts. A repeat of this performance will almost certainly contribute to success. For the first time since 2016, Melancon's WAR was 1.0 in 2020, while he dominated the postseason with five strikeouts and two saves in 6.1 innings. Melancon has signed on with the Padres, but the crowded bullpen might make it difficult for him to stand out. Despite this, Melancon's value should not be taken for granted. 2021 looks to be the year that Melancon can reaffirm himself as a high-profile reliever in a market that is deep with talent. Keep an eye on the veteran at ADP 267 for some late-inning help with the potential for save opportunities.
