Ron Rigney shares his top prospects and where they stand in their progression towards the Big Leagues in 2023! Follow Ron on Twitter – @RonRigney
Embed from Getty Images
Mark Vientos, UTIL – NYM
If you listened to The NastyCast Fantasy Baseball Pod when it was still going, you heard us talk about Vientos. Full credit goes to former host Nate Dokken for putting me on to the Mets slugger. I’ll admit he’s more of a deeper league/dynasty consideration, but if you’re in need of some pop, he’s a great guy to stash. The 23-year-old was called up last week, and likely won’t see consistent playing time, so his value in weekly formats is limited until there’s an injury. A third baseman by trade, his defense limits him as well as being stuck behind former top prospect Brett Baty who looks as if he’s up to staying. At some point Vientos will have to move to first base or DH permanently, with the latter looking like his best chance at playing time with the Mets. It’s also a strong possibility he will get dealt if the Mets are in it around the deadline, which helps fantasy owners as well.
Vientos hits the ball hard and possesses 70 grade power. A former second round pick, he has some useful offensive tools for fantasy owners, minus stolen bases. He has developed into a double-digit BB% guy over his career. However, that comes along with a K% that has settled in the mid-20’s. I would put him on my watch list, but until he’s got a regular role, especially if you play in a league format where he is UTIL eligible only, he’s just going to take up space. If he gets that everyday spot in the lineup, he should provide a boost in all formats.
