Pankratz Isekenmier
Where Did He Come From?
Isekenmier was drafted by the Talons in the first round of the 2037 draft, 21st overall. He was a value pick, signing a week later for a mere $1.2 million. He was quick to develop, and made his ML debut in September of 2039. In 2040, he became the starting 3B at age 20 and responded with a 2.8 WAR, .835 OPS campaign. The next three years saw him blossom into a remarkably consistent mid-3 WAR player whose below average range at the position was offset by sure hands, respectable speed, and an accurate arm.
How Did He Do This Season?
2044 could be characterised as a slightly down year for Pankratz, if only in camparison to his previous efforts. He was still worth 2.5 WAR, despite an OPS+ of only 95. He hit a career low 20 home runs, and struck out a career high 101 times. Mostly batting third in the order, it's somewhat surprising that he was not able to benefit more from batting in front of BBA home run king Pedro Guzman.
Whats Going To Happen To Him?
Prior to this season, Isekenmier signed a one year, $6.75 million extension for 2045 to buy out his sixth arbitration season. His down year means that his projected arb award might have been slightly lower, but it seemed like a good deal at the time, based on his 3.8 WAR season in 2043.
Grade: B
