Speaking of spring, the stats players post do matter. Specifically, strikeout rates, walk rates, and isolated slugging can give us actionable info on what to expect during the regular season. As such, when players have major deviations during the spring, we need to take note. That's what's happening with Joey Gallo.
Even while belting 41 home runs last year, Gallo struck out a whopping 36.8% of the time, the second-highest mark among qualified hitters. It fully explains why he had a .209 batting average, which is a major buzzkill in roto leagues.
But Gallo said this spring that he's trying to put the ball in play more often, and it's working. Just compare his spring numbers from last year to what he has done so far this year.
| Gallo in Spring | Plate Appearances | Strikeout Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 61 | 37.7% |
| 2017 | 56 | 19.6% |
Strikeout rates stabilize at around 60 plate appearances, and Gallo's at 56 for the spring. This is significant, and it should change the way that we view him.
Gallo's new approach may put a dent in his power, but that should be a sacrifice we're willing to make. He had a 46.4% hard-hit rate and 54.2% fly-ball rate, so he can afford to slip a bit as long as it comes with gains in other areas.
Gallo's projected to bat second for a good offense in a great park. That's hyper valuable. Owners may be frustrated with his poor performance in the past, allowing us to buy now and see the effects of his new mindset.