SPECULATOR: Searching for the next A.J. Pollock

An annual preseason rite here in the Speculator space is identifying a breakout performance from the previous season, and constructing a profile that might help identify candidates who could take a similar step up in the current year. It’s always a fun exercise—and productive, too.

But this one is a bit crazy, as on the hitters side, we have a game of “roll it over” going on. Last March, when I penned this column, the subject was Michael Brantley, who in 2014 had broken out with a $41 season. The capsule of the final player for a 2015 breakout read:

[He] is the least-experienced player on this list, and right now garners most of his value from his legs, with an elite 175 Spd and 14 SB in just 265 AB in 2014. But his power is present,...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From Speculator

They didn't help you much in the first half, but these rebound targets are primed for a summer surge.
Jun 25 2025 3:09am
The world-renowned (kind of) #BloomBoards make their way to the Speculator. Four of them to sift through!
Jun 18 2025 3:09am
Our annual exercise pitting current players on the age-old 10-step path to prospect stardom list.
Jun 11 2025 3:06am
Two-plus months into the season, we'll use QBaB to see who's making the best quality of contact, and speculate on their outlook going forward.
Jun 4 2025 3:09am
After last week's in-season "UP"side column, it's time to strike a more pessimistic tune.
May 28 2025 3:07am

Tools