Jonathan India DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Kansas City Royals second baseman Jonathan India is expected to be the leadoff hitter to open the season. India has been productive in that spot during camp and will likely continue in this role. In addition, Anne Rogers of MLB.com noted that while India is expected to play every day, he will likely do so at multiple positions. Throughout camp, the Royals have provided India with opportunities in the outfield and he has seen previous work at third base in the minor leagues. If he were to shift to several positions, this could open the door for more opportunities for No. 2 second baseman Michael Massey. Last season, India posted a .248/.357/.392 slash line with 15 home runs and 13 stolen bases. He drew walks at an elite 12.6 percent rate. India carries great value in drafts as he should provide a high total of runs batting in front of Bobby Witt Jr., Salvador Perez, and Vinnie Pasquantino.

Kansas City Royals infielder Jonathan India will hit leadoff and start in left field in the team's Cactus League opener on Friday against the Texas Rangers at Surprise Stadium. The Royals acquired India from the Cincinnati Reds in the offseason in exchange for right-hander Brady Singer. The 28-year-old has never played a position other than the keystone in the majors, but KC made the trade for him with a plan in mind for him to become more of a super-utility man. If India sees playing time in the outfield during the regular season, it would open up a spot at second for Michael Massey. India played in a career-high 151 games in his final season in Cincy and is a decent power/speed threat, but his move from hitter-friendly Great American Ballpark to Kauffman Stadium is definitely a downgrade. He could eventually gain 2B eligibility, but RotoBaller has India ranked as the No. 19 fantasy second baseman.

According to Anne Rogers of MLB.com, infielder Jonathan India will receive starts in the outfield during spring training. The 28-year-old said that he should also see opportunities at the hot corner. Even though India has never played in the outfield, he expressed, "I'm athletic, and I know I can do it. I'm going to get some work in, see how it goes." Throughout his major league career, India has only seen starts at the keystone. Last season, India posted a .248/.357/.392 line with 15 home runs and 13 stolen bases. He generated an impressive .352 xwOBA and a 12.6 percent walk rate, which placed him in the 87th and 97th percentile, respectively. Currently, Maikel Garcia is slated to cover third base, while MJ Melendez is slated to cover left field. India could see his fantasy value increase if he gains more positional eligibility during the 2025 season.