Fantasy Baseball Impact: Matt LaPorta Recalled for Cleveland Indians

Matt LaPorta, the star prospect who was traded to the Cleveland Indians in exchange for CC Sabathia, has been recalled from Triple-A Columbus.  He should be on the bench for the Cleveland Indians for today’s game.

At the young age of 24, LaPorta has all the tools to be an immediate breakout star at the Major League Baseball level.  However, many fantasy owners have had questions in terms of what exactly we can expect from the young prospect.

LaPorta had a successful spring training with the Cleveland Indians, batting .361 with a home run.  During his time in Arizona, LaPorta also recorded a lofty on-base percentage at .439.

While LaPorta cannot be expected to maintain this high batting average and on-base percentage, it is extremely difficult to project a reasonable MLB batting average for him.  At the time of his callup, LaPorta was batting .333, with a .414 on-base percentage.  He also had nine walks to 10 strikeouts: a testament to his solid batting eye.

.280 may be a reasonable projection for LaPorta, but be aware that it could fluctuate as he adjusts to MLB pitching.

Another thing that LaPorta brings to the table is power—he has hit five home runs in 75 at-bats for Triple-A Columbus this season.  Look for a solid 20 home runs from LaPorta this season, if he can maintain full-time at bats.

LaPorta won’t steal you any bases, but with this solid slugger profile, why would you need them?  LaPorta is worth a pickup in all leagues on the chance that he will get a chance to play everyday for the Cleveland Indians.

Is he Evan Longoria or Ryan Braun?  Too early to say—but LaPorta will have a solid impact in all fantasy baseball leagues this season, as long as he can get the at-bats.