Rockies third baseman Nolan Arenado is one of the most-added players in CBSSports.com Fantasy leagues, with his ownership at 62 percent with his call-up to the majors. Arenado is one of the game's top prospects, but can he live up to the hype?
Arenado had a steady climb through the minors, spending a full season at each level before the organization determined he was ready for the majors after a hot start in Triple-A. Arenado was batting .364 before his call-up, and he has a mature approach at the plate that should lead to solid batting averages. In 1,675 at bats in the minors, Arenado struck out 190 times, with 126 walks. He was able to bat .298 and .285 over his final two full seasons in the minors, despite having batting averages on balls in play below .300 each season.
Arenado is a solid power hitter, but his minor-league career high in home runs was 20, with a two 12-home run seasons sandwiching that one. He should be fine in Coors field, and his gap power should play especially well, but don't expect huge power numbers out of the gate. The Rockies do not have many appetizing options at third base given the struggles of their other players, so Arenado should have a long leash.
Arenado hit a home run and went 3 for 6 in his second game, but he might struggle to get up to speed right away. Arenado's upside makes him more than worth owning, but exercise patience, as with all unproven commodities.