Billy Hamilton - Platoon Player?

Billy Hamilton is as divisive as they come in fantasy baseball. A true difference maker in one category, but below average in the other four. Is there a way to get the positive production on the whole from Billy Hamilton?

I think that sitting him versus LHP might be the answer. This makes sense on a few levels. First, Billy gets on base less versus lefties. His speed is obviously a little hampered a bit by being further from first base. Secondly, Hamilton’s most valuable stat is steals. LHP cut down steals because they are better at holding runners, unless you’re Jon Lester.

If we take a look at the stats over the past two years, he hits .260-.270 versus RHP and only about .220 versus LHP. The difference is clearly seen in his batted ball profile. He hits significantly more line drives versus lefties and as we know, line drives are always good. Fly balls for most players are good, but not for Billy Hamilton because of his lack of power. What’s the best part about platooning him? You barely lose any steals. So far this season he has 50 steals against righties compared to only eight against lefties. If he hits .260-.270 with 50+ steals for you, that might work out better for your team than .240-.250 with 60+ steals.