Let's be honest—trading away a star player is never easy. It feels like you're giving up a piece of your team's identity. But sometimes, the smartest fantasy baseball managers know exactly when to cash in. Fred Zinkie is here to help you make those tough calls, and he's identified a few big-name players who are prime "sell high" candidates right now.
Why sell high? Because the trade market is all about timing. A player's hot start can create a window where their perceived value far exceeds their likely production going forward. If you can capitalize on that, you might land a more reliable star in return.
Sal Stewart, 1B/2B/3B, Reds
Just a few weeks ago, a listener asked Zinkie and his podcast co-host if they'd trade Fernando Tatís Jr. for Sal Stewart. Zinkie said no immediately—but his co-host actually considered it. That's the power of a hot start. Stewart has a great blend of power and speed, making him a fantasy-friendly asset. But since April 26, he's hit just .180 with one home run, one steal, and a .497 OPS over 15 games. Despite that, he still ranks as the 20th overall player and top third baseman on Yahoo's player rater. That's a huge gap between current performance and market perception. If you can trade him for an established star, don't hesitate.
Munetaka Murakami, 1B/3B, White Sox
If we're recommending selling Stewart, we might as well go all the way and suggest dealing the player who ranks third in baseball in home runs. Murakami is undeniably talented, but history shows that MLB pitchers adapt. They've shut down many a hot hitter once they have a book on him. Over 283 games in Japan from 2023-24, Murakami hit 64 homers—a great rate, but not elite. He's not Aaron Judge or Shohei Ohtani. As the season progresses, pitchers will find ways to neutralize him. If you can flip him for a proven, consistent star, you'll likely come out ahead.
Mickey Moniak, OF, Rockies
Moniak is hitting an impressive .303 with 11 home runs, and playing in Colorado certainly helps. But be careful: Coors Field inflates numbers, and road splits can be brutal. Moniak's career track record doesn't suggest he'll maintain this pace. If you can find a manager who values his current stats as if they're sustainable, now is the time to strike. Trade him for a more reliable outfielder before the inevitable regression hits.
The key takeaway? Don't fall in love with early-season breakouts. The trade market rewards those who sell high and buy low. If you can turn a hot start into a proven star, you're setting your team up for long-term success.