Leonys Martin (OF, SEA) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in All Leagues

OWNED IN: 34% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: In the category of "didn't see that coming," Leonys Martin has already surpassed his season-high for home runs with 10 in just 157 AB. This comes after moving from hitter-friendly Arlington to spacious Safeco Field in Seattle. Maybe Robinson Cano is rubbing off on him just a little bit... Martin has always been known as a speedster, stealing 30+ bases in the 2013-2014 seasons. Last year Martin was limited to 310 plate appearances due to recurring injuries, but still managed to swipe 14 bags. With eight steals so far this season, he is still on track for around 25, but his new approach has increased his power and consequently his value. He is putting less balls in play (58% IP%), hitting more fly balls (0.64 GB/FB) and more of them are leaving the yard (18.9% HR/FB%). The result: Martin's .223 ISO is currently nearly double his career average of .119. The home run to fly ball percentage seems unsustainable, especially for a non-slugger, so it is safe to expect the power to slow down over the second half. Still, Martin is easily on pace for a 20/20 campaign and may pick up the running once balls stop leaving the yard and he reaches base more. Martin is providing a power/speed combo that fantasy owners crave. His ownership should start to reflect that more.