TJ Friedl DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Cincinnati Reds outfielder TJ Friedl hit two solo home runs and walked once in Wednesday's 4-3 win over the Braves. This was his first time homering since April 5th, bringing his total to three on the year. He's now slashing .273/.338/.392 and has eight stolen bases as the regular leadoff hitter for the Reds. He is still available on the waiver wire in too many fantasy leagues for a leadoff hitter who plays half of his games in one of the most hitter-friendly venues in the league. He has the potential to steal over 30 bases with enough pop to not hurt you in any other categories.

Cincinnati Reds outfielder TJ Friedl was unstoppable at the plate during Saturday's game against the Baltimore Orioles. The O's pitchers had no answers as Friedl went 4-for-4 with a double, two RBI, a walk, and a steal in the loss. Friedl has been red-hot with eight hits over his last three games. He hasn't been a great fantasy option this season, but Friedl is now batting over .300 on the year. Fantasy managers seeking some production on offense might want to consider Friedl while he's on his hot streak. It's worth noting that Friedl has favorable matchups coming up against the Miami Marlins and Colorado Rockies.

Cincinnati Reds outfielder TJ Friedl went 1-for-4 with a double, two runs scored, and one RBI in Sunday's 4-0 home win over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The 29-year-old is up to a .254 average now (15-for-59), with two doubles, one home run, six RBI and 11 runs scored. Friedl was limited to 85 games in 2024 after thumb, wrist, and hamstring injuries forced him to the IL on three separate occasions. He's been better so far this season, and statcast thinks he's underperforming. The California native has already swiped two bags -- seven off his total of nine last year -- and holds a .273 xBA. Perhaps more encouraging, Friedl's strikeout rate has dropped for the second straight season to 13.8%, presenting as a career-low if it holds.