Alejandro Kirk

Expectations for Kirk were high as he was coming off a season where he improved offensively and defensively. His defense got even better, but Kirk's batting took a couple of steps back. He continued to fan at a low 10.7 percent clip, but Kirk's average exit velocity dropped three mph while his hard-hit rate fell seven points to a career low 38.3 percent, only 33rd percentile. Kirk's power, and especially run production plummeted. His struggles at the plate cost Kirk playing time as he was used as the designated hitter only 17 times, compared to 50 the prior campaign. He hit the ball harder for the final three months of the season, so there is optimism for a rebound, but he's still going to share catching duties with Danny Jansen. Kirk's excellent contact rate yields a solid floor, but the playing time upside anticipated heading into last season is on hold. Read Past Outlooks