Red Sox lose Jackie Bradley to DL: Fantasy fallout
By Brad Kelly
Jackie Bradley Jr. is headed to the DL after spraining his thumb during an awkward slide. What is the fantasy fallout of the news for the Red Sox and fantasy owners?
The Boston Red Sox carry a solid lead in the AL East, but they will face a tough stretch as defensive wiz, Jackie Bradley Jr, sprained his thumb. What is fantasy fallout from the news?
Bradley Jr. had a breakout 2016 season that saw him post a .267/26 HR/87 RBI line. Most fantasy owners were willing to take him again, hoping that he could replicate what he did a season ago. Even though the power has not been there, he has been a productive OF4/5 thanks to his .262/14 HR/54 RBI/.775 OPS line.
JBJ earns his money with his defense. He is surely the favorite to win the Gold Glove in center, even though Byron Buxton could give him a run, but he will be more of a loss in real life than in fantasy.
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The Red Sox made a corresponding move by acquiring Rajai Davis from Oakland. Davis got off to a slow start this season, but since the break has posted a .300/3 HR/11 SB line.
He will surely get his starts in center and offers the Red Sox a much-needed speed threat down the stretch. He could become a waiver wire add if he can carve out consistent at-bats until JBJ returns.
Those owners looking elsewhere for potential adds should give the red-hot Dexter Fowler, .400/1 HR/8 RBI, a look. Options such as Nicky Delmonico or Rhys Hoskins offer power adds, while a player like Delino Deshields is swinging it well and can offer SB help.
Next: Royals Brandon Maurer: Insurance add off the waiver wire
The Red Sox should be able to keep the ship steady even though Jackie Bradley Jr. will miss at least 10 days. The OF position offers fantasy owners plenty of replacement options though.