Paul Goldschmidt (1B-ARZ)

Injury – He suffered a fractured left hand after being hit a pitch in August and missed the rest of the season. 

2014 Season – After being the runner-up to the National League MVP in 2013, Goldschmidt was well on his way to MVP contention again before getting hit by a pitch on his left hand.  He finished the season with a .300 batting average along with 19 home runs, 69 RBI, 75 runs scored and nine stolen bases in just 109 games.  He also hit 39 doubles which had already surpassed his total from 2013.  Goldschmidt cemented himself as a legitimate top ten fantasy draft pick with his contributions across all five Roto categories.

Reason For Optimism

  • Goldschmidt’s injury healed without the need for surgery and he was already taking batting practice by the end of September 2014.
  • He is entering his age-27 season which is typically when players hit their stride in their prime.
  • The Diamondbacks will field a healthier and improved lineup around Goldschmidt including a full season with Mark Trumbo and Aaron Hill, along with international free agent Yasmany Tomas.

Reason For Concern

  • Hand injuries can affect the amount of power that hitters can generate.
  • The fact that Goldschmidt’s injury was caused by a hit-by-pitch could have a detrimental effect on his approach at the plate.
  • Pitchers could use the injury against him by strategizing to pitch him inside more frequently.

2015 OUTLOOK – Goldschmidt emerged as one of the top fantasy options after a monster 2013 season where he provided elite production across the board.  He was on his way to duplicating those numbers before a freak injury ended his season prematurely.  He will be 100% for spring training and should be treated accordingly in drafts.  At 27-years old, Goldschmidt is entering his prime and should be able to translate some of those doubles into long balls.  He is still young enough to expect double-digit stolen bases which are very valuable for a first baseman.  Look for another season with a .300+ batting average along with 30-35 home runs and well over 100 RBI.  He is a lock to be drafted within the first ten picks.

If you are wondering the best way to evaluate players such as Goldschmidt so that you can be prepared for your draft, then be sure to find out how to get your free copy of the incredible 2015 Fantasy Alarm Baseball Draft Guide.

Michael A. Stein, Esq. is the Chief Justice of Fantasy Judgment, the industry's premier dispute resolution service, and co-host of the Fantasy Alarm Podcast.  You can contact him at michael.stein@fantasyjudgment.com or on Facebook and Twitter (@FantasyJudgment),