MLB Home Run Derby: Underrated options with loads of potential
By Kyle Cardoza
MLB Home Run Derby : Evan Gattis
Just three players have crushed more home runs in June than Gattis. And considering that Gattis has been on a torrid stretch this month, it’s surprising.
Gattis endured a brutal dry spell to kick the year off. But he quickly made himself known again, primarily between May 27 and June 15. He clocked 10 bombs across 17 games in that span.
But this isn’t necessarily new to the designated hitter. He four 20-homer seasons on his resumé, including one in which he blasted 32 home runs.
Last year was the only time he didn’t eclipse the 20-homer mark, and it was essentially because he was platooning behind the plate with Astros catcher Brian McCann. Now that manager A.J. Hinch dedicated the DH spot to the 31-year-old, it’s all he has to focus on.
That’s definitely what the MLB Home Run Derby needs.
The only issue with “El Oso Blanco” is his inconsistency and tendency to strikeout. Of course, anyone missing balls being thrown 50 mph probably doesn’t deserve to be in the Derby anyway.
Nevertheless, Gattis is like the rest of the bunch in that he’s a risky option. He could easily swat double-digit home runs in each round. But there’s also a chance that he hits just one.
The last Houston player to participate in this event was Lance Berkman in 2008. He finished third in the contest behind Justin Morneau and Josh Hamilton.
There is an argument that George Springer would fare better in the event. However, Gattis would be a more entertaining contestant, solely because he would be a complete high-risk, high-reward guy.
He would make a lot of bettors delighted, yet he could also disappoint many.