One of the best ways to gain an edge in fantasy baseball each season is by identifying post-hype sleepers before the rest of the league catches on. These are players who were once highly regarded prospects, struggled during their first opportunity in the major leagues, and were quickly labeled disappointments. Often, however, those players are still young, talented, and capable of breaking out once they receive another opportunity.
This season, two members of the Washington Nationals fit that description perfectly: Dylan Crews and Curtis Mead.
Crews entered professional baseball with enormous expectations. The former LSU standout was one of the most highly touted prospects in recent memory, and many scouts believed he was the best overall player in a draft class that also featured pitching phenom Paul Skenes. While his first stint in the majors did not immediately produce superstar numbers, the talent that made him a top prospect never disappeared.
Now back in the big leagues, Crews is receiving regular playing time and showing why fantasy managers should pay attention. His speed is a major weapon, and throughout his minor league career he also displayed developing power. Washington remains heavily invested in his future, and since being recalled he has been in the lineup almost every day. For fantasy managers looking for a high-upside addition, Crews could be the type of player who helps swing a championship race.
Mead is another intriguing name who appears to be finding his footing. Once considered one of the top prospects in the Tampa Bay Rays organization, Mead was viewed by many evaluators as a potential long-term answer at third base. Although things never fully clicked during his time with Tampa Bay, he has been given a fresh opportunity and is making the most of it.
Since taking over a larger role in Washington’s lineup, Mead has done nothing but produce. He has been hitting in the heart of the batting order and providing consistent offensive contributions. With eight home runs and nearly 30 RBIs already on the season, Mead has quietly become a valuable fantasy asset.
Fantasy championships are often won by managers who identify breakout candidates before everyone else. Dylan Crews and Curtis Mead both fit the profile of classic post-hype sleepers. If they are still available on your waiver wire, now may be the time to take a chance before the rest of your league catches up.