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ANALYSIS: Austin Hedges got some sleeper buzz heading into 2017 after lighting up the minors last year. Even adjusting for the offensive environment of the Pacific Coast League, Hedges' breakout was impressive. He hit .326/.353/.597 with 21 home runs, 20 doubles, and 82 RBI in just 82 games. The outburst was all the more surprising given his prior performance, which suggested that only his work behind the plate would sustain him as a viable major league catcher. With the scarcity of high-value fantasy options at the position, though, some owners were ready to bet on Hedges having figured something out as a hitter.
The 24-year-old went hitless in his first 27 plate appearances of 2017, but in the subsequent 25, he's hit .330/.360/.792 with three homers. That surge has brought his overall line up to a still uninspiring .170/.235/.404. Nevertheless, it's encouraging to see Hedges flash some of the pop he discovered last year. With no real competition for playing time in San Diego, he makes for a solid upside play in most formats.
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