Nick Loftin DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Kansas City Royals infielder Nick Loftin (wrist) is returning to the starting lineup on Thursday evening to face the Chicago Cubs. Loftin will cover the hot corner and bat cleanup. The 26-year-old was scratched before Sunday's contest due to wrist soreness. However, seeing Loftin return to the starting nine relatively quickly suggests the injury is not very serious. Through his first taste of spring training, the Baylor product has been quite effective as he has gone 6-for-11 with three RBI. Loftin is currently competing for a depth role in the Kansas City infield. Last season, he held a .189/.282/.336 line across 57 games. If he does make the 40-man roster, he will only have value as a reserve option in AL-only leagues.

Kansas City Royals infielder Nick Loftin (illness) exited Thursday's contest early due to an illness. Loftin returned to the starting nine in this game after missing most of the week due to a wrist injury. However, it appears Loftin may need to miss additional time. Before exiting, Loftin went 0-for-2 at the plate. Through seven spring training contests, Loftin has been productive as he has gone 6-for-13 with a .462/.588/.692 slash line with three doubles and a 4:3 BB:K ratio. Last season, the 26-year-old held a .189/.282/.236 slash line across 57 MLB contests. If he can continue this strong play during camp, he could earn a depth role in the Kansas City infield.

Kansas City Royals infielder Nick Loftin (wrist) was scratched from Sunday's starting lineup due to right wrist soreness. Fantasy managers should continue monitoring his status throughout the week in case he remains sidelined. Last season, Loftin logged a career-high 57 games at the MLB level. He held a .189/.282/.236 slash line with four doubles and one stolen base. He drew walks at a strong 11.1 percent rate and struck out at an elite 14.1 percent rate. In 58 contests with Triple-A Omaha, the Baylor product posted a .302/.409/.462 slash line with 13 doubles, seven home runs, and four stolen bases. He also showed a strong eye at the plate at this level, with an elite 37:37 BB:K ratio. When he returns to action, fantasy managers should expect Loftin to compete for a utility role in the Kansas City infield.