Garrett Cooper (1B/OF, MIA) - Week 13 Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in All Leagues

OWNED IN: 26% of leagues

ANALYSIS: Garrett Cooper has a straight-up weird lineup of peripherals, but fortunately, it has culminated in an absolutely fantastic offensive showing by the 28-year old Auburn alumni. This year, the emergent outfielder and first baseman has hit for six home runs and a well-rounded slash of .313/.385/.496 through 131 AB, and he has only been heating up in the hot Miami sun. Over the last two weeks he has swung for a homer and a dialed-in line of .390/.432/.585. What has led to his impressive performance, and is it likely to continue as the summer drags on?

"Coopaloop" boasts some figures that speak to the ferocity with which he is capable of striking the ball. He has been hitting for 44.4% hard contact and 16.2% soft contact, leading to a solid ISO of .183, as well as far above-average figures for exit velocity (90.4 MPH) and average home run distance (426 feet). The weirdness comes in examining Cooper's dirt-heavy 2.89 GB/FB ratio,which is likely the result of a 3.5 degree launch angle, which could make you really nervous about his .376 BABIP. No need to worry though, he is netting a high volume of base hits with a 29.3% line drive rate, so he can maintain his offensive value by spraying the outfield while taking full advantage of fly balls when he can hit one. Keep in mind that he did have some issues this week with his triceps, but he is a great asset to be a part of moving forward.