On-base percentage (OBP) is becoming a key metric in fantasy baseball leagues, attracting attention for its ability to reward players with exceptional plate discipline. Unlike batting average (AVG), which is influenced by multiple factors, OBP more directly benefits from a player's ability to draw walks and make consistent contact. This year, several players stand out as potential OBP stars, offering savvy fantasy managers a chance to gain an edge in their drafts.
Ketel Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks is highlighted for his impressive stats, including a .372 OBP and a significant contribution of 36 home runs, 93 runs, and 95 RBIs in 2024. His ability to maintain a BABIP around the league average indicates that his success at getting on base is sustainable. Similarly, Max Muncy of the Los Angeles Dodgers, despite an injury-plagued 2024 season, boasts a career OBP of .352 and a solid walk rate that suggests he will continue to be a reliable source of OBP in upcoming drafts.
Isaac Paredes, now with the Houston Astros, is projected to fill an everyday role and could see his OBP improve in a new environment. Gabriel Moreno, a catcher for the Diamondbacks, offers sneaky value at a position often overlooked in OBP leagues, providing a solid option without the high draft cost associated with top-tier catchers. Finally, Nathaniel Lowe of the Washington Nationals presents a late-round opportunity for managers looking for OBP value, especially if he secures consistent playing time.