Fantasy Baseball Analysis: Evaluating Pete Crow-Armstrong and Paul Skenes

Introduction

The 2025 fantasy baseball season is already proving to be an exciting one, with standout performances from players like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Paul Skenes. As fantasy managers, it’s vital to assess whether these early-season successes are sustainable or merely temporary bursts of excellence. This report will provide an in-depth analysis of Crow-Armstrong and Skenes, helping you decide whether to buy, sell, or hold onto these players in your fantasy leagues.

Pete Crow-Armstrong: The Rising Star

Early Season Performance

Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA) has been a revelation in the early part of the 2025 season. As of the latest updates, he has compiled an impressive .294 batting average, amassing 30 hits, 17 RBIs, and 10 stolen bases over 26 games. His power, often underrated since his draft, has seen a notable improvement. This season, Crow-Armstrong has increased his contact rate to 78%, up from 70% last season, and maintained a higher launch angle, which is a positive indicator for his power potential.

Defensive and Offensive Contributions

Crow-Armstrong’s defensive prowess has always been a key asset, but his offensive contributions this season have been a welcome surprise. He has demonstrated the ability to hit for average, power, and speed, making him a valuable five-category fantasy asset. His refined approach at the plate, combined with his natural athleticism, suggests that his hot start could be more than just a fluke.

Fantasy Outlook

Considering his current performance and the improvements in his batting approach, Crow-Armstrong appears to be a strong buy candidate in fantasy leagues. His ability to contribute across multiple categories makes him a valuable addition to any roster. However, fantasy managers should be aware that his power numbers might not match those of some other outfielders, but his overall production more than compensates for this.

Paul Skenes: The Dominant Pitcher

Early Season Dominance

Paul Skenes has been a force to be reckoned with in his early starts for the Pittsburgh Pirates. With 11 starts under his belt, he boasts a perfect 6-0 record and a remarkable 1.90 ERA. His strikeout potential has been a topic of much discussion, with some experts predicting his strikeout rate to be closer to 30% than 20%. Skenes’ fastball velocity, averaging around 100.1 mph, has been a significant factor in his success.

Consistency and Potential

Skenes’ consistency has been nothing short of impressive, with no losses in his starts so far. His ability to miss bats and induce weak contact has been crucial to his success. While his ERA might slightly regress as the season progresses, his strikeout potential and consistency make him a valuable asset in fantasy leagues.

Fantasy Outlook

Skenes is a clear buy candidate in fantasy leagues. His strikeout potential and low ERA make him a top-tier starting pitcher. Fantasy managers should consider acquiring him if he is available, as his performance suggests he will continue to be a dominant force on the mound.

The Art of Buying and Selling

In the dynamic world of fantasy baseball, timing is everything. Knowing when to buy, sell, or hold onto a player can make all the difference in securing a championship. Here are some strategies to consider:

Buying Low

Identifying players who are underperforming due to bad luck or minor injuries can be a goldmine. These players often come at a discounted price and have the potential to bounce back strongly. Look for players with high expected stats (xStats) compared to their actual performance. This discrepancy often indicates that a turnaround is on the horizon.

Selling High

Conversely, selling players at the peak of their value can secure you valuable assets for the future. If a player is performing exceptionally well but has underlying issues (e.g., high BABIP, low strikeout rate), it might be wise to cash in while their value is high. This strategy allows you to acquire players who might have more long-term potential.

Holding Steady

Sometimes, the best move is to hold onto your players. If a player has shown consistent performance and has a solid track record, holding onto them can pay off in the long run. Be wary of overreacting to short-term slumps or hot streaks. Consistency is key in fantasy baseball, and holding onto reliable performers can provide stability to your roster.

Conclusion: Strategic Moves for Fantasy Success

In the ever-evolving landscape of fantasy baseball, making informed decisions based on data and performance trends is crucial. Pete Crow-Armstrong’s multi-category contributions and Paul Skenes’ dominant pitching make them strong buy candidates. Fantasy managers should consider acquiring these players if they are available, as their performances suggest they will continue to be valuable assets throughout the season.

As the season progresses, keeping a close eye on their performances and adjusting strategies accordingly will be vital for fantasy success. Whether it’s buying low, selling high, or holding steady, strategic moves can set you apart from the competition. Stay informed, stay adaptable, and most importantly, enjoy the thrill of the game.