You do not even need to squint that much to see that 2017 Mercer was the same guy as 2016 Mercer. It is crazy to see consecutive batting averages and on-base percentages that close to one another while the slight bump in slugging comes from two more doubles and three more home runs. He is a decent counting category contributor in NL-only leagues as he can chip in some homers, runs and RBI, but he gives you nothing in steals and is a zero sum game in both batting average and on-base percentage leagues. Mercer should once again hit near the bottom of the lineup in 2018, as that walk rate over the past two seasons is more him accepting his walks batting ahead of the pitcher than any growing skill. He had 52 walks last year, 28 of which came while he hit eighth in the lineup and another 12 hitting in front of the backup catcher. Shortstop prospect Kevin Newman had a rough 2017, but is still close to the majors, and the Pirates will soon be looking to upgrade that position, one way or another.