Houston Astros outfield prospect Colin Barber was limited to just 44 games from 2019 to 2021, but he looked solid during that window and has only gotten better during a more normal 2022 campaign. Barber demonstrates an ability to work deep into counts, forcing pitchers to eventually make a mistake pitch that he can drive. He has great bat speed and has shown impressive improvements in terms of power. Defensively, he has the quickness and arm needed to survive in center field for the time being. Barber has hit the ball very well this season. Specifically, this past week, he went 11-for-21 with five homers, nine RBI, three walks, and just one strikeout. This blend of power and an ability to avoid strikeouts is rare, so the Astros certainly hope it's sustainable. Houston's No. 5 prospect, Barber could make his MLB debut as soon as the second half of the 2023 season. When he does, fantasy managers would be wise to roster him due to his relatively rare blend of speed and power.
Colin Barber Undergoes Season-Ending Shoulder Surgery
Houston Astros outfielder Colin Barber (shoulder) underwent shoulder surgery and is expected to be out for the remainder of the season, according to Chandler Rome of the Houston Chronicle. The No. 7 overall prospect in Houston's system according to MLB Pipeline, Barber was slashing .214/.365/.452 with three home runs, one steal, seven RBI and 10 runs scored over 16 games prior to the injury, as he has not played since May 26. It was highly unlikely that Barber would have been in consideration for a call-up this year, but managers in dynasty formats will want to keep an eye on how he recovers from this injury next season.
Colin Barber
• LF
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Astros
