Jabari Blash (OF, SD) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in NL-Only Leagues; Monitor in Deep Mixed Leagues

OWNED IN: 1% of Fleaflicker Leagues

EXPERT ANALYSIS: Jabari Blash is getting a chance to prove himself as an every day player in San Diego. While it was widely thought that Futures stars Hunter Renfroe or Manuel Margot would get the call when Matt Kemp was traded, the Padres instead opted to give Blash another shot. He was used strictly as a pinch-hitter at the beginning of the year, but the Padres realized that wasn't a good fit for him. His current .189 average is a result of his April numbers, but since being recalled at the deadline he has started out 4-for-12, including his first Major League home run. Like most sluggers, strikeouts will be a problem with him. Built more like a football player, the 6'5", 235 lb Blash has a long, powerful swing. He struck out 123 times between Double-A and Triple-A last season and has exceeded 100 K in all but one year since advancing beyond rookie ball. His BB/K rate has seen improvement as he has progressed through the minors, however, and a career .256 average is nothing to be concerned about when you can blast 32 HR and 81 RBI in the high minors. Much like Travis Jankowski has given owners a huge boost in the SB category since taking over in San Diego's center field spot, Blash has the potential to do the same for HR as long as he occupies right field. He may be worth a roster spot in NL leagues or adding to your watch list in deep mixed leagues.