The Nationals are set to option Juan Yepez to Triple-A Rochester on Thursday, per team updates, after a lackluster spring performance.

Fantasy Impact

Yepez’s .244/.292/.267 in 48 Grapefruit League plate appearances this spring falls short of an Opening Day spot Thursday, despite a .764 OPS in 249 PA last year, eyeing everyday play in Rochester at multiple positions. Fantasy managers in deep dynasty leagues should stash him, banking on a 2025 call-up to Washington’s lineup if he rebounds in the minors.

Juan Yepez has been working out primarily at third base early in spring training, per Spencer Nusbaum of The Washington Post. While he played the position frequently in the minors and made three starts there with the Cardinals in 2022, he has not played third base in a game setting since then.

Fantasy Impact

The Nationals currently lack a clear starter at third base, making Yepez’s positional work worth monitoring. However, given his defensive limitations, it remains a long shot that he will earn regular playing time at the hot corner. If he continues to see reps and impresses in camp, he could emerge as a depth option, but for now, he remains off the fantasy radar outside of deep leagues.

Juan Yepez went 3-for-4 with three runs scored and an RBI as the Nationals trounced the Phillies 9-1.

Fantasy Impact

His performance today, marked by consistent contact and run production, underscores his solid season, where he's maintained a .290 batting average over 60 games. Yepez's ability to contribute across multiple categories, despite a lack of power numbers with only six homers, makes him a valuable asset in deeper fantasy leagues. His low strikeout rate and decent wOBA suggest he can be a reliable source of average and runs, though his limited power and speed cap his ceiling.

Juan Yepez is out of the starting lineup for the Nationals Wednesday.

Fantasy Impact

Yepez will head to the bench with a right-hander of the mound for the Royals. Joey Gallo will start at first base and bat fifth.

Juan Yepez played a key role in the Nationals' 4-1 win over the Marlins, delivering when it counted.

Fantasy Impact

Yepez went 1-for-3 with a home run, one run scored, and one RBI. His solo shot contributed significantly to the team's victory, showcasing his power potential. This performance is a positive sign for fantasy managers, as Yepez continues to maintain a solid .288 batting average and a .345 wOBA through 51 games. His ability to connect for extra-base hits, evidenced by his 14 doubles and now six home runs, suggests he could be a valuable asset in fantasy lineups, especially in leagues that reward power hitting. While his stolen base numbers aren't eye-catching, his consistent bat provides steady fantasy value.