As the initial weeks of the 2024 MLB season unfold, some players are performing exceptionally well, while others have been disappointing.
This article aims to provide fantasy managers with valuable insights on which players to buy high and sell low based on their current performance.
The injury bug has hit several starters hard this season, including George Kirby and Bailey Ober who have both experienced disastrous outings.
However, it's essential not to overreact to these early results, as the sample size is small.
Instead, managers should focus on players who appear healthy and are performing better than their draft position.
On April 2023, Bryan Reynolds held the top spot for homers in Major League Baseball, Matt Chapman followed closely behind with the second most RBIs, and Andrés Giménez led the pack in runs scored.
The trio of athletes concluded the campaign with mediocre results in their categories.
Nevertheless, there are instances when a player gets off to a hot start and remains consistent throughout the season.
Identifying such players is crucial for winning in the trade market.
Managers are on the hunt for quality starting pitchers due to the unavailability of Spencer Strider and Shane Bieber.
Buying Low and Discounts
Buying low and selling high is best employed in April than in other months of the year.
Managers concerned about Kevin Gausman's recent performance, including his struggles with velocity and shoulder concerns, might consider acquiring him at a discount.
The massive volume of injuries across baseball has made IL slots precious for many managers, creating opportunities for buy-low offers on players like Justin Steele.
Managers with available IL spots should take advantage and make buy-low offers for struggling players like Steele, who could return to action by early May.
Despite having no saves, taking losses, and a poor K:BB ratio, managers can acquire Tanner Scott at a significant discount. The Marlins have the worst record in baseball, and their closer is only one piece of the problem.
Sell High on Injured Players
Managers holding injured players like Strider or Bieber should consider selling high to secure early draft picks for the upcoming season.
The Braves ace's injury is expected to keep him out until the middle of 2025, making this an opportune time to trade him. In a worst-case scenario, Strider will still return as a top-tier starting pitcher for drafts in 2026.
Mike Trout, who leads the league in home runs with six through eleven games, is off to an excellent start this season. However, his injury history remains a significant concern for fantasy managers.
Selling high on Trout now and acquiring an early-round pick could be an attractive option for some teams.
Last year's breakout prospect, Anthony Volpe, is showing excellent early results - 2 HR, 3 SB, and a .375 BA.
He has a high ceiling with 21 HR and 24 SB in 2023 and could quickly become a top-tier asset.
Impressive Starts for Tanner Houck and Lourdes Gurriel
Tanner Houck, a promising pitcher for the Red Sox, has made an exceptional debut with a flawless ERA of 0.00, 0.75 WHIP, zero walks, and a striking 17 strikeouts in just 12 innings pitched.
On the offensive side, Lourdes Gurriel from the Arizona Diamondbacks is setting the league on fire with his impressive batting average of .310, on-base percentage of .383, and a power display of nine runs, three home runs, 11 RBI, and a 6:5 K:BB ratio through the Arizona Diamondbacks’ first nine games. He could be looking at another career-high season in home runs and RBI.
