Ohtani's Shoulder Surgery, Roki Sasaki's Pitch Mix & An Early Offseason Acuña Update
Nov 9, 2024
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Get the scoop on Shohei Ohtani's shoulder surgery and its impacts on his future. Delve into Roki Sasaki's intriguing pitch mix and his potential MLB transition. Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider's availability for Opening Day raises concerns. Discover the trade of Jorge Soler to the Angels and its fantasy implications. Unpack the dynamics of player contracts and the strategic shifts in MLB positions, including Wilson Contreras moving to first base. Vocal discussions highlight how these changes shape team strategies for the upcoming season.
Shohei Ohtani's recent shoulder surgery raises concerns about his ability to impact the upcoming season as both pitcher and hitter.
Roki Sasaki is contemplating his future in MLB, with questions surrounding his performance and injury history affecting his marketability.
Injury uncertainties surrounding Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider will significantly influence fantasy drafting strategies heading into 2025.
Deep dives
The Impact of Shohei Otani's Surgery
Shohei Otani recently underwent arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder to repair a labrum tear, which is expected to delay his return to pitching. Despite this setback, reports suggest he may be ready to serve as a designated hitter by spring training and could still perform well for the opening day in Japan. The surgery raises questions about his potential power and speed in the upcoming season, as similar injuries have historically affected players’ performance. Projections estimate a decrease in his home run tally and stolen bases, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding his dual-role productivity in the fantasy landscape.
Updates on Roki Sasaki's Status
Roki Sasaki's future as an international free agent remains uncertain as he deliberates on whether to enter Major League Baseball soon. New analyses suggest that his current arsenal may not match the elite expectations set during the World Baseball Classic, as some aspects of his performance indicated a potential decline in velocity and overall effectiveness. While his impressive strikeout rate positions him well among peers, concerns over injuries and durability could hinder his transition. His decision will greatly impact teams’ strategies; waiting longer could yield a significantly more lucrative contract.
Fantasy Implications of Acuña and Strider's Injuries
Both Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider are dealing with injury concerns and may not be ready for the start of the season. Acuña's history of serious knee injuries raises doubts about his running ability, and while he is expected to contribute, concerns about his aggressive baserunning linger. Strider's second Tommy John surgery adds to the mystery around his 2025 outlook, potentially diminishing his draft stock. As teams head into drafts, their health status will likely influence not just where they are picked, but also the overall strategy for building a fantasy roster.
The Dodgers' Pitching Strategy and Otani's Role
The Dodgers are leaning towards utilizing a six-man rotation, which could directly impact Shohei Otani’s value as a consistent starting pitcher. This strategy is expected to limit his opportunities for two-start weeks, complicating his use in weekly fantasy leagues. Despite this transitional phase for the pitching staff, Otani remains a valuable asset due to his unique dual-threat capability, provided he can recover from his surgery effectively. Overall, how Otani and other pitchers adapt to the new structure will affect their fantasy draft outlook.
Noteworthy Player Trades and Moves
The recent trade that saw Jorge Soler leave the Braves for the Angels highlights Atlanta's strategy to bolster their pitching staff by acquiring Griffin Canning. Canning's injury history raises concerns but also presents an opportunity for the Angels to improve at the plate. Indeed, Soler’s ability to contribute offensively positions him well for further success. Additionally, other potential adjustments around player positions in both teams could reshape their rosters and influence player stats as the new season approaches.
Upcoming Challenges in MLB Offseason Planning
The offseason presents various hurdles for teams as players, such as David Fry recovering from UCL surgery and the uncertainty surrounding key assets like Gavin Lux and Wilson Contreras, factor heavily into strategic planning. Teams must navigate roster limitations and potential trades to avoid a decline in competitive performance. With offseason decisions looming, organizations will be evaluating player health and long-term contracts. scouting prospects, and the value of flexibility in player roles as they prepare for the next season.
Eno and DVR are back from First Pitch Arizona with a flurry of early offseason updates including a shoulder procedure for Shohei Ohtani, a closer look at Roki Sasaki's pitch mix after his 2024 campaign in NPB, expectations that Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider won't be ready for Opening Day in 2025, plus a trade, a new contract for Michael Wacha, and the path for Jeff Hoffman to return to a starting role once he finds a new club in free agency.
Rundown
2:01 Shohei Ohtani's Undergoes Left Shoulder (Labrum) Surgery
12:17 How Many Players Have Old Injuries to Manage?
21:50 Roki Sasaki Nearing a Decision for 2025 Plans
30:57 Spencer Strider & Ronald Acuña Jr.: Unlikely for Opening Day
38:00 Jorge Soler Traded to Anaheim for Jorge Soler
49:08 David Fry Undergoes UCL Surgery
51:16 Extensions, Options & Opt-Outs
1:11:14 Willson Contreras to First Base & Position/Role Change Rumblings
Follow Eno on Twitter: @enosarris
Follow DVR on Twitter: @DerekVanRiper
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