Revisiting his earlier enthusiasm, Welsh tempered expectations for newly promoted Cole Young. He still likes the 21-year-old’s elite contact ability (88 % contact rate in the minors) and potential 15-20-steal pace, but warned Seattle’s pitcher-friendly park will suppress homer output and therefore counting stats. Welsh slotted Young as a ‘15-team middle-infield stopgap,’ suggesting managers in shallower 12-team leagues should prioritize Marcelo Mayer instead. He expects Young’s real-life value to exceed his fantasy impact unless he unexpectedly claims a top-of-order spot alongside Julio Rodriguez.

Welsh recommended scooping up newly promoted Cole Young in all 15-team leagues and as a speculative MI play in deeper 12-teamers. The 21-year-old slashed .312/.392/.468 across Double- and Triple-A with an 88% contact rate and 15 steals before the call-up. Welsh said Seattle views him as a future table-setter; if he sticks, he could slide into the No. 2 spot ahead of Julio Rodriguez, creating immediate run-scoring upside. While T-Mobile Park suppresses homers, Young’s plus hit tool and willingness to run (projected 15-20 SB pace over 600 PA) make him fantasy-relevant right away. Managers hurting at middle infield should act now before he logs a stealing binge and costs FAAB next weekend.