I am sure Mike “Moose Tacos” is a great guy in real life, especially with a nickname like Moose Tacos. But some would say what he does to all those innocent little baseballs is flat-out unconstitutional. Political views aside, will Moustakas be fantasy worthy in 2011?
Opportunity. Just like a crazy artist, tired of his work, the Royals ripped all the paintings off the wall this off-season and are ready to start anew. The fans don’t want to see Mike Aviles or utility-Bloomquist at the hot corner in 2011. Royals enthusiasts want to see what their exciting new toys can actually do. That means plenty of playing time should be available for Moustakas in 2011.
Plate Approach. Moose Tacos has a ton of power, but he is not an “all or nothing” Adam Dunn type of hitter. His approach would be better explained by comparing him to Josh Hamilton. He has 30 Home Run power, but also has the ability to be a .300 + hitter at the big league level. In 2010, between AA and AAA, his AB/HR was 13. To put that in perspective, only four players in the history of baseball have a better HR per AB ratio in their career (McGwire, Ruth, Howard and Bonds). It would be silly to expect that in the majors, but the power stroke is certainly coming along nicely.
Defense. Who cares? Okay, probably a lot of people who are interested in his real life value. Word on the street is that his third base defense is improving month-by-month. He’s got a great arm, but needs to work on his footwork still.
Fantasy Outlook. Moose Tacos will be give a chance to earn a roster spot out of Spring Training. I would say the chances of that are less than 15%, however. Barring injury or massive slump, Moose should be in the majors no later than June 8th. In Mixed, Re-draft leagues, Moustakas will be worth a late round flier just in case he makes the team out of ST. If not, he will be worth stashing anytime before his anticipated call-up. In keeper leagues, Moustakas is a must own, as he will be a .300/30/100 threat as soon as 2012.
2011 Projection: 420 AB – 58 R – 21 HR – 62 RBI – 3 SB – .278 AVG
