Angels: Kole Calhoun Still Being Undervalued Heading into 2017?

By Brad Kelly | Feb 28, 2017

Feb 27, 2017; Tempe, AZ, USA; Los Angeles Angels right fielder Kole Calhoun (56) hits an RBI single in the third inning against the San Diego Padres during a spring training game at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports /

Kole Calhoun has quietly strung together three solid fantasy seasons with the Angels. But, is he still getting overlooked heading into 2017?

Fantasy baseball is often a game of finding breakout performers. But, there should be something said for those performers that may lack tremendous upside, yet are consistent. Kole Calhoun serves as an example of those types of players and has been one of the few steady performers for the Angels here lately. But, should fantasy owners still be overlooking him heading into 2017?

Calhoun was never hyped as a top prospect even after posting solid numbers in the minors. He made his MLB debut in 2012 but did not become a starter until 2014. Since that promotion, Calhoun has produced solid fantasy seasons year in and year old.

It is easy to be overshadowed by Mike Trout and the vast OF talent pool, but Calhoun peripherals have steadily improved. The 26 HR performance in 2015 stands out and it was clear that his aggressive approach was the key. He altered that approach though last season, dropping his K rate by nearly 6% and upping his BB rate to 10%.

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He also posted another 22%+ LD rate, while increasing his FB rate to 40% and lowered his GB rate to a career low 38%. Calhoun notched a career-high 35 doubles last season, which led to his 48% Med and 35% Hard contact rates.

He may by 28-years-old, but he has methodically improved his game for the Angels.

Calhoun has the enviable lineup spot right in front of Mike Trout. This practically ensures that he will see plenty of fastballs and have his counting stats stay afloat throughout the course of the season. He has two 90 R seasons out of the last three years, so if Luis Valbuena and hopefully Albert Pujols can stick in the middle of the lineup, that plateau is attainable yet again.

The potential power numbers are intriguing, yet he will probably not be the 30+ HR threat that it looked like he may turn into. With 18 HR and 35 doubles in 2016, one would have to think that a few of those doubles turn into homers. This would allow him to climb back into the 20 HR range for the Angels.

HIs AVG should remain in the .265-.275 range as it seems as though he is back to more of a balanced approach at the plate. He only had a .309 BABIP last season, so it is not as though Calhoun needs a lot of luck to continue his solid AVG numbers.

Calhoun is not going to single handily win anyone their leagues, but it always seems as though he gets overlooked in drafts. His early ADP shows that he is being right around the 40th OF mark. That is just too low based on his situation and consistency. Owners would be better off taking Calhoun over the likes of Jackie Bradley Jr., Hunter Pence or Jay Bruce, all of whom are being taken over him.

Next: Rockies: Trusting Jon Gray in 2017?

Expect another .270/20 HR/75 RBI/85 R type of line from Calhoun this season. He serves as a great investment once again, so do not be the owner to overlook him this spring.

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