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Two top prospects were called up on Sunday. The first was Alex Bregman, who we recommended that you pick up in fantasy leagues about two weeks ago.
Now, the Rockies have called up top OF prospect David Dahl. Dahl was ranked as the #14 overall prospect on Baseball Prospectus' midseason top 50. Here's what BP had to say about Dahl at the midseason mark:
Why He’ll Succeed: Finally healthy, Dahl is now showing off the development of his game, including an ability to drive the ball over the fence more than previously thought, while also showing hints of an approach….
Why He Might Fail: …..The approach at the plate is still developing and could stagnate, leaving the hit tool and power a little short of the mark.
In particular, Dahl has hit for much more power in the minors this year than last year. In 2015, Dahl had only 6 HR with an ISO of .139 in AA, which isn't particularly impressive. This year, he's hit 18 HR with a .254 ISO across both AA and AAA, a very strong number.
Dahl has a small sample of 70 plate appearances in Triple A this year and has destroyed the level so far to a 269 wRC+, with 5 HR and a .403 ISO. Combined between AA and AAA, Dahl is hitting to a 163 wRC+ with a .254 ISO, 11% walk rate and 24% strikeout rate over 400 PA in 2016. It's led to a .314/.394/.569 slash line. He appears to have made real strides at the plate this season.
For the rest of this year in the big leagues, Dahl appears to be a player who may rack up a high strikeout total, especially in road parks away from Coors. But he's worth a pick up in most leagues, as the Rockies may be dealing one of Charlie Blackmon or Carlos Gonzalez, which will open up every day playing time for Dahl. Consistent playing time for a talented young outfielder on the Rockies is usually worth the gamble, which probably doesn't need to be said.
Among the two call ups yesterday, I am higher on Bregman and would prioritize rostering him over Dahl. Bregman looks more ready to hit MLB pitching now than Dahl, and should put together a solid batting average with some speed. But Dahl can provide value for the rest of the season, especially in deeper leagues with less available on the waiver wire. He's only 14% owned as of Monday morning.