BATTERS: Young targets, 2019 updated

Let's continue our look at the most skilled young players in the game by moving on to hitters.

There's a clear benefit of using skills when speculating on future breakouts. Last year in this space, both Max Kepler (RF, MIN) and Ketel Marte (2B/CF/SS, ARI) were young bats with marginal results:

Max Kepler (RF, MIN) is another young bat who is firmly on a growth curve. Beneath Kepler's marginal stat line (.228 BA, .733 OPS) are some solid reasons for intrigue. For one, his plate discipline is strong (11% bb%, 82% ct%, 0.70 Eye). And he possesses underlying power skills that are well above average levels (123 xPX). His 90-mph exit velocity is significantly above the norm too. (7/30/2018)

Ketel Marte (2B/SS, ARI) is another pre-peak bat who...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Batters

Alec Burleson's elite stats and skills against RHers and struggles vs. LHers suggest he hasn't maxed out his results yet.
Aug 24 2026 3:15am
Henry Bolte and Chandler Simpson are leading off for their respective teams, and were we too high on Max Clark?
Aug 21 2026 3:06am
Esmerlyn Valdez's elite batted ball quality at home confirms his significant untapped upside.
Aug 17 2026 3:15am
Royce Lewis looks like an elite bat in stretches, including during the heater he's been on since returning from the minors.
Aug 10 2026 3:07am
Lawrence Butler may be reclaiming the leadoff spot for the A's, and other hitters are benefiting from moving up in the batting order.
Aug 7 2026 3:06am

Tools