Quick Hit: Does Jim Adduci Deserve Deep League Attention?

by Eric Stashin (aka The Rotoprofessor)

When the Tigers recalled Jim Adduci on April 23 no one paid much attention.  Just over two weeks later, as he’s hitting .317 over 41 AB, people are starting to paying attention.  While Eric Thames is grabbing the attention for a player who returned to the U.S. after playing in Korea, Adduci is trying to to prove he belongs as well.

The assumption was that his playing time would disappear once J.D. Martinez returned from the DL, but the script may be changing.  According to Anthony French of the Detroit Free Press (click here for the article):

“Who will be sent out for Martinez remains to be seen, but Ausmus offered this clue: He has talked to Jim Adduci about getting some work in centerfield during batting practice.”

With Detroit centerfielders slashing .222/.278/.383 it makes sense, as Adduci does have experience at the spot.  With the potential to entrench himself in the lineup, does he deserve our attention?

While he has yet to hit a home run, the 31-year old has 4 doubles and 2 triples.  We’d like to see a few more fly balls, with a 27.6% fly ball rate, which makes us question whether or not he’s ever going to be able to add power.  It’s safe to assume no, despite a big power outburst in his first season abroad, as he managed 9 HR (as well as 21 doubles and 4 triples) over 429 AB last season.  With power never being his forte, don’t expect a lot.

Speed was generally his best asset, with as many as 35 SB in a minor league season.  That came way back in 2009, though, and at his age it’s hard to imagine him getting back there.

The average too is a bit deceiving, as he’s benefited from a .433 BABIP despite a modest 20.7% line drive rate.  He’s going to regress, the real question is how far.

So in summary:

• Power – There isn’t much
• Speed – He could chip in a few, but he’s not going to carry you
• Average – A regression is coming

Even in deeper formats, does that excite you?

Waiver Wire Guidelines:

• 10 Team Leagues – Don’t Add
• 12 Team Leagues – Don’t Add
• 14+ Team Leagues – Streaming Option
• AL-Only Leagues – Streaming Option
• Keeper Leagues – Streaming Option (format dependent)

Sources – Fangraphs, Baseball Reference, MILB.com, MLB.com, Detroit Free Press

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