Astros: Alex Bregman parlay second half success into fantasy stardom in 2018?

Alex Bregman helped the Astros secure an appearance in the ALCS.  But, could his second-half success this season, propel him to fantasy stardom in 2018?

Alex Bregman may only be 23-years-old and in his first full season for the Astros, yet he already has a signature playoff moment as he homered off Chris Sale in the pivotal game four of the ALDS. Even though the homer was undoubtedly clutch, he also deserves credit for what he did during the second half of the season.

Is the next step fantasy stardom?

Alex Bregman was lauded as one of the multiple top prospects in the Astros’ system, and one of the best in the minor league ranks across MLB. He debuted in 2016, posting a .264/8 HR/34 RBI/2 SB/.791 OPS line over 55 games. He showed enough flashes, of his skill set, making him one of the more intriguing rookies heading into 2017.

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He was a later round target for fantasy owners, yet has certainly outplayed his draft stock. Over 155 games, he finished with a .284/19 HR/71 RBI/17 SB/.827 OPS/88 R line. He was one of only six qualifying third basemen that stole more than 15 bases, and one of only four third basemen to post a 15 HR+/15 SB+ season.

For all the talent Bregman has, he did get off to a slow start to the season. He only mustered a .256/8 HR/27 RBI/8 SB/.757 OPS line as June came to an end. But, as soon as the calendar turned to July, he caught fire. Over the final three months of the season, he hit no less than .272 in any month, while notching 11 HR/45 RBI over that span.

There is a lot to like in Bregman’s game. After simplifying his swing, he was able to post a 15% K and 9% BB rates. He made contact at a 86% clip while posting 22% LD, 38% GB, 40% FB, 49% Med and 33% Hard contact rates.

His batted ball data is well-balanced and offers plenty of excitement. He makes consistent hard contact, and even though he is not a big guy, he drives the ball in the air at a great rate. He notched 44 XBH as well, so even if a handful of those leave the park next season, he is now flirting with 25 HR.

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Speed wise, Bregman is a smart baserunner, who is not afraid to swipe bags at any time. He was only caught stealing five times in his 22 attempts. The Astros have a loaded lineup, and one part of their attack is on the basepaths, meaning he will continue to get the green light.

Alex Bregman has 25 HR/20 SB potential, plays his home games at a hitter-friendly stadium, and will have a spot in one of the best lineups in the league. The counting stats will continue to be there, and even if he could have gotten off to a league average start to the year, he would have had a monster season in 2017.

Alex Bregman needs to be an early round target in 2018.