Matt McLain and Kevin McGonigle Surge Up Fantasy Baseball Draft Boards

With Opening Day just around the corner, the excitement of spring training is palpable, and so is the shifting landscape of fantasy baseball drafts. As teams finalize their rosters and players make their case for starting positions, some players are seeing their average draft positions (ADPs) soar, while others are slipping down the boards.

Matt McLain has emerged as one of the most notable risers this spring. His performance is hard to ignore, boasting a staggering .607 batting average, five home runs, and 12 RBIs, all leading the league. After entering spring training with an ADP of 184, McLain’s recent surge has propelled him to an ADP of 158, positioning him as the ninth second baseman off the board. This increase is partly a response to his previous undervaluation; after a disappointing season where he posted a .643 OPS, drafters are now recognizing his potential, especially given his breakout in 2023.

On the other side of the diamond, Kevin McGonigle is making a compelling case for the Tigers’ opening day shortstop. As of March 13, he has registered a .304 batting average with an impressive .609 slugging percentage. His ability to make hard contact is evident, with nine of his 17 balls in play clocking in over 100 mph. McGonigle’s standout moment came during an exhibition game against the Dominican Republic, where he launched a ball an estimated 461 feet at an exit velocity of 110.4 mph. His solid plate discipline and the high praise he has received, including from a Cy Young winner, have made him an attractive option for fantasy drafters, moving his ADP from 147 to 131.

However, not all news is positive as the spring progresses. Brandon Woodruff’s status remains uncertain due to a lat issue, causing his ADP to creep up as drafters weigh the risks. Meanwhile, Griffin Jax has seen his ADP rise significantly due to a clearer path to saves with Edwin Uceta expected to start the season on the injured list. Jax is now a top choice for those seeking reliable closing options.

Injuries have also cast a shadow over several players, including Hunter Greene, who will undergo surgery for bone spurs in his elbow, limiting his draft appeal. Other fallers include Jeremy Peña, Brandon Lowe, and Kyle Teel, all of whom are facing injury challenges that could impact their seasons.

As fantasy players navigate these shifting dynamics, the allure of emerging talent like McLain and McGonigle contrasts sharply with the risks posed by injuries to established players. The draft landscape is ever-changing, and savvy drafters must remain vigilant to capitalize on the latest developments.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.