In that analysis, grades were in part shaped by pre-season expectations, so that, for example, Evan Longoria got a lower grade than Jesus Sucre, since the latter had better offensive numbers than could have reasonably been expected.
In this exercise we are evaluating just how this year’s performance might change our expectations for players moving forward. Players who had stronger than projected years may have shifted our perceptions of their talents, whereas players who struggled may lead baseball fans and analysts to see them as less valuable.
Based on 2017 results, which Rays saw their value rise or fall the most?