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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 226  0 |
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Positives/Upside:
A-Rod is healthy and ready to have a monster 2010. He finished 2009 off strong, proving that the struggles he had after returning in May from a hip injury were nothing more than rust. Batting in the heart of the Yankees line-up will offer Rodriguez ample opportunities to drive in and score runs. Rodriguez will be an elite option for runs, HR, and RBI, and will post a high enough average and steal enough bases to help your team as well. .300-115-40-125-20 in 570 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Although always good, Rodriguez's numbers have been inconsistent through the years. For example, his 54 homeruns in 2007 were sandwiched between years of hitting 35 homeruns in both 2006 and 2008. His batting average also tends to fluctuate between good and great. Also, while A-Rod is fully recovered from his 2009 hip injury, at 34-years old he qualifies as a higher injury risk than the other elite fantasy options. .280-100-30-110-15 in 540 AB |
Analysis:
Rodriguez is a surefire first round pick in draft leagues and someone to build your offense around in auction leagues. The fact that he has the potential to be the most productive offensive player in 2010 justifies taking him with the third overall pick, but grabbing him with the fourth or fifth pick should he slip is a lot safer. Be willing to pay market value for Rodriguez, but don't go overboard. .290-105-35-120-20 in 560 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 3 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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45 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 142 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Longoria became one of the game's best hot corner men in 2009, and at age 24 his best years almost certainly still lie ahead. Longo is a polished hitter who has power to all fields, and certainly has the tools to hit .300 in the bigs. He will once again bat third in what projects to be one of baseball's better lineups, and more big numbers should be in store for 2010 -- and well beyond. .290-110-40-125-10 in 600 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Longoria's on-base skills are good, not great -- and being more selective at the plate might help him to cut down on the 140 strikeouts he racked up in 2009. Like most young players, Longo may be prone to extended slumps. .275-95-30-110-5 in 580 AB |
Analysis:
If you play in a dynasty league, look no further for your third baseman than Number 3. In seasonal leagues, he's still a player to build the rest of your team around. .285-105-35-120-10 in 600 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 9 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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41 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 353 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Positive? It's no longer 2009.
Okay, okay David Wright has more going for him in 2010 than that. First is that unless the Mets are hiding something, there's nothing wrong with him. It's not the park, as he hit five home runs at home and five on the road (for the record, much of Citi-fields "problems" seem to be the injuries and failure of the Mets -- the Mets ranked higher in runs in Flushing than on the road). It's not the strikeouts (way up in 2009) because he was striking out more in May and June while he was batting .378 and .365 than he did later on... well, September he fell apart completely. LD%? GB/FB? Nope, all OK. Other than his lefty/righty splits, this looks like a real fluke. 16.7% hr/fb% in 2008 turns into 6.9% in 2009. Game set and match.
Wright is 27 and still the player he was prior to last season. Because of this, and because the Mets may be playing with a healthier line-up, we could expect a bounce back, particularly in the countables. Citi-field may suppress a few home runs (even after the center field wall is lowered to 8' from 16') but a first-round type performance seems possible. .315-100-25-110-28 in 600 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
He's stopped hitting righties. It's a real problem, and unless he figures it out, you can't be paying the price for him. To make a long story short, if he goes for second-round prices and earns first-round then this would be nice, but it's not going to put you on the podium. But if he costs you the same price and earns like a tenth-rounder, that will surely take you off the podium. .290-85-10-85-23 in 525 AB |
Analysis:
David Wright single-handedly sunk many a fantasy owner's hopes last season. The consensus top third baseman and frequent #3 overall selection churned out the numbers we have come to expect... from Randy Winn. Wright's numbers vs. righties have declined every season since 2006:
year BA/OBP/SLG L-R BB/K ...
2006 .321/.380/.549 0.93-0.46 ...
2007 .311/.404/.505 1.29-0.71 ...
2008 .275/.351/.484 1.42-0.62 ...
2009 .277/.361/.393 1.58-0.43 ...
This is past being a trend. Could the 27-year old star turn this around? You bet he could and I would like it to be on my dime... As long as it is only a dime. .300-90-20-90-25 in 550 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 15 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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37 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 178 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
I think we got a pretty good look at Reynolds' upside last season -- .260-98-44-102-24. That's going to be tough to top, but we now know what he's capable of. .260-100-45-110-20 in 580 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Potential bust factor. There's a good chance that Reynolds won't match the speed numbers and will need to keep his average at that .260 mark to truly be effective. Also stay away if your league counts strikeouts. .235-85-35-90-10 in 540 AB |
Analysis:
Reynolds finally put it all together in 2009 with a monstrous season. I have trouble believing he'll post the same kind of gaudy numbers again in 2010, but he should be useful nonetheless. He trended down towards the end of the season, posting only 8 HR and 3 SB after August 17th, which leads me to believe the speed numbers may have been an aberration. He'll still be an excellent source of power from your corner position, but remember, a lot of his value is wrapped up in his speed numbers, which he may have trouble replicating. He's going to be overrated coming into the year, so avoid the temptation of spending one of your first five picks on him. Don't pay for one huge season when there are other, more proven players that you can get for better value. .250-95-40-100-15 in 570 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 28 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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33 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 186 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Zimmerman took a huge step forward in 2009 and has pushed his way into the top-5 at third base. Zimmerman's 2009 was great, but a slight improvement again this year will push him into the top-20 overall players. in .295-105-35-105-3 in 610 AB
Upside: .300-115-35-115-3 |
Negatives/Downside:
Don't expect Zimmerman to terrorize the base paths. He stole just two bases in 2009. .280-90-25-95-0 in 570 AB
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Analysis:
Zimmerman is near the top of a position that does not reek of depth this season, and it's pushing his value through the roof. You'll need to spend a late second/early third round pick to acquire his services in 2010. He's a four category player who will make any team instantly better. If you can get him at his current draft position, he'll more than live up to expectations. .290-100-30-100-0 in 600 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 29 |
Recommendation: Go the extra dollar |
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33 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 107 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Youk offers plenty of balance, which is a good thing for any fantasy team. He'll produce very good totals in average, runs, homeruns, and RBI, and he'll even steal a handful of bases. .310-100-30-105-5 in 560 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Youk lacks the upside that some of the other players that you can grab for about the same price or at the same spot in your draft have. He is already very good, but I don't think he's going to get any better. He is a very safe pick with little upside or downside. .295-85-20-90-3 in 480 AB |
Analysis:
Hitting in the heart of the Red Sox order will guarantee Youk plenty of opportunities to drive-in and score runs. While you'll likely want to use him at third, he should qualify at first as well, giving him added flexibility. Nothing flashy, but indeed dependable. .305-95-28-100-5 in 530 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 39 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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31 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 154 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
When healthy Ramirez ranks amongst the betters hitters in the game. If you project A-Ram's 306 at bats in 2009 over a full season, you are looking at something in the neighborhood of .315-90-30-120-4. That's pretty darn good. If Ramirez can stay healthy in 2010 you could steal elite numbers without having to pay full price for them. .310-85-30-110-0 in 550 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Ramirez biggest downside is obviously the injury risk he carries. In fact, while he always misses sometime, 2009 ranks as the most injury plagued season of his career, which raises fears that his body may be breaking down. .290-65-20-80-0 in 400 AB |
Analysis:
Ramirez spent about half of 2009 on the shelf, but put up great numbers when he was on the field. Ramirez always misses some time, but as long as he stays healthy enough to approach 500 at-bats he will be productive enough to be an asset to any fantasy team. Of course the possibility of another major injury lingers. .300-80-25-100-0 in 500 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 53 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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28 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 107 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
He may only really contribute in three categories, but his run and steals production are among the elite. .295-110-8-55-40 in 590 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Eventually Father Time will catch up to Figgins, and he'll lose a step. There's a possibility that could happen this year, but I wouldn't count on it. He does have a poor injury history aside from 2009. .280-90-3-45-30 in 510 AB |
Analysis:
Chone Figgins is essentially Ichiro-lite. He'll hit for an excellent average and steal many bases. His run total will take a hit, as he no longer has the big bats of the Angels' line-up to knock him in. If you miss out on some of the power that resides at the hot corner, take Figgins and address power at another position. .285-100-5-50-35 in 550 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 64 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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27 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 87 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
In his first season, Beckham could have hardly made a better impression. In 103 G with the White Sox, he showed he could hit for power, some average, and even steal a handful of bases. He is primed to build on his partial season with a great full year in 2010. Plus, in moving to 2B, he will gain two-position eligibility, increasing his value. .280-90-28-95-13 in 590 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Young players can be unpredictable. Between the building hype and the position switch, there's a risk that it's all a little too much too soon. .260-75-20-75-8 in 500 AB |
Analysis:
It certainly looks like Beckham is ready to live up to the lofty expectations placed on him. He demonstrated that he could hit big league pitching, he plays in a good hitters' park, and he has a certain path to regular playing time. He should be a target in one-year and keeper leagues alike. .270-85-25-85-10 in 550 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 97 |
Recommendation: Go the extra dollar |
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22 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 79 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Young provides an elite batting average and above average totals in all other categories. With the shallow talent pool at third base, Young could be an excellent compromise in the middle rounds. .320-95-20-75-10 in 610 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Young lost RBI moving to the #2 hole in batting order. He is now 33 and could start losing is power and speed. .290-80-13-60-5 in 530 AB |
Analysis:
With all the power that the Rangers’ line-up boasts, Michael Young is the catalyst. Always a consistent hitter, Young sported is highest average (.322) and home run total (22) since 2005. His RBI took a big dip mainly because he was moved from third to second in the order. Young is always undervalued in drafts for some unknown reason, so he should be able to be taken at a discount. It seems like he’s been around forever, but he’s only 33 and should still have another year of top-tier play left in him. .310-90-18-70-8 in 580 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 98 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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21 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 88 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Stewart crushes the ball and could be an excellent source of home runs this season. He'll be a solid three category contributor (HR, R, RBI) and come at a pretty cheap price. He even has a little bit speed to go with it (7 SB in 2009). .260-85-28-90-10 in 550 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Batting average. You'll need to draft Mauer or Ichiro to mitigate the damage Stewart might do. Watch out. .245-75-20-75-5 in 470 AB |
Analysis:
Stewart qualifies at both second and third, which is value right off the bat. He could kill your average but provide quality HR, R, and RBI numbers. I can't recommend any player that kills you in a category like Stewart will in average. .255-80-25-80-8 in 500 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 116 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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20 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 83 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
I am not going to even suggest that his absurd 2004 was anything more than a fluke, but if you look carefully at the rest of his career, you'll see that Beltre has the ability to put up very good numbers. Beltre often gets knocked for never coming close to reproducing his 2004 season, but that doesn't mean he still can't be a reliable offensive asset. .275-75-25-85-13 in 540 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
His upside is no longer close to what it once was, and he in fact seems to be headed toward the downside of his career. He is coming up a career lows in home runs and RBI in a full season, and never has been a reliable source in the average department. .260-65-15-68-8 in 470 AB |
Analysis:
Beltre's move to Boston should help his numbers some in 2010, but he is clearly on the way down. His upside is limited and is likely outweighed by the downside. He'll have a better season in 2010 than he did in 2009, but don't expect him to even return to more than 20 HR and 75 RBI. .270-70-20-75-10 in 500 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 143 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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18 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 82 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Jones' 2009 season was shortened by injuries, but the veteran has batted over .300 three of the past four seasons, including a stellar .364 in 2008. He is a career .307 hitter, and is bound to bounce back in 2010. Despite his pedestrian numbers last season, Jones still managed to post a hefty .388 OBP. With quality third basemen at a premium this year, Jones presents a quality option that won't break your Fantasy bank. .300-90-28-95-5 in 480 AB. |
Negatives/Downside:
Jones' average dropped a cool 100 points last year over his '08 showing, and he is showing the classic signs of a player in decline. He should rebound somewhat this season, but his days as a .300-30-100 guy are long gone. .280-80-22-75-2 in 430 AB. |
Analysis:
Jones is a serviceable option at third base, but be ready to draft your backup hot corner man early to account for Chipper's inevitable injuries. Stay alert - his injury history may cause him to fall into the Bargain Basement. .285-85-25-80-3 in 450 AB. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 144 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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18 |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 108 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Cantu is a fine natural hitter; heck, he's so good he even wears his batting helmet over his eyes to make things fair. Apart from having one of the worst cap styles in the bigs, Cantu is a pretty solid corner infield option. he plated 100 RBI last season - his second straight with at least 95 ribbies - and batted a strong .289. His homer rate dipped, but after having smacked 29 dingers in '08 and 28 back in '05 there's certainly room for recovery. .290-80-25-105-4 in 620 AB. |
Negatives/Downside:
Corner infield is one of Fantasy baseball's "power" spots, and 16 dingers just won't cut it. The Marlins pulled Cantu off the scrap heap two seasons ago, and there has to be a reason he was there. Prospects Logan Morrison and Gaby Sanchez may push Cantu for playing time this season. .265-65-15-60-2 in 470 AB. |
Analysis:
Cantu should push his homer numbers up a bit, but it would be surprising to see him knock in a C-note again in 2010. In any event, he should be a good "fall-back" option at the corner infield positions. .280-75-20-85-4 in 540 AB. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 157 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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17 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 86 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Now hitting in an improved Orioles' line-up, Tejada should be able to score and drive in his fair share of runs. His average should remain i the .300+ range and he'll post double digit home runs. |
Negatives/Downside:
Take your pick. There's many reasons to believe that Tejada has started to slip in is offensive production. Many will point to his age as a contributing factor. Others will point to his switch to the American League, where he may not be able to keep up with the power pitching he'll see. |
Analysis:
If Miguel Tejada has retained any semblance of his quality 2009, he'll tally some RBI while helping your average. He'll be undervalued in a weak season for third basemen. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 142 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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16 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 98 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Power is still there as evidenced by last seasons 1st half splits.
.275-75-30-100 |
Negatives/Downside:
Injury risk is a huge concern, as is a mediocre AVG and no speed.
.250-40-15-50...only 300AB?? |
Analysis:
Crede is just 2 years removed from a 30HR season, but back problems have caused him to miss significant time the past 2 seasons. Gets a fresh start at the hot corner in Minnesota and as long as he's healthy he has a shot at duplicating last seasons 1st half stats 16HR 49RBI over a full season. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 303 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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13 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 89 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Scuatro is coming off a fantastic 2009 season in Toronto, and moves into the friendly confines of Fenway Park, and into a strong Red Sox line-up that will provide him with plenty of run scoring and RBI opportunities. 2010 should be another great season for Scutaro. |
Negatives/Downside:
Don't be fooled by Scutaro's 2009 season. He isn't that good. Plus he produced the career high filled statline, .282-100-12-60-14, batting out of the leadoff spot for the Blue Jays, but will hit at the bottom of the order in Boston. In 2010, we will go back to seeing the Marco Scutaro we got to know in his eight seasons before his big 2009. |
Analysis:
It will be interesting to see how Scutaro’s move to Boston effects his numbers. Scutaro produced his solid 2009 numbers hitting leadoff for the Blue Jays, but will hit at the bottom of the order in 2010 with the Red Sox. Comparing Scutaro’s 2009 season to his 2010 season will be an interesting analysis on the importance of where a player bats in the batting order vs. the overall quality of the lineup he bats in. .270-85-10-60-10 in 575 at bats |
| Recommended Draft Position: 219 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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12 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 98 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Prado played the super-utility role to perfection for the Braves last season, and his season's line of .307-64-11-49-1 in 450 AB brought a smile to his fantasy owners as well. Prado projects as the Braves' everyday second baseman in 2010, and his numbers should improve a it as a result. .305-85-15-75-3 in 500 AB. |
Negatives/Downside:
Prado will not help your fantasy cause one bit in the stolen base department. .285-55-10-60-1 in 450 AB. |
Analysis:
Prado is a great "filler" pick as your draft winds down. He's similar to Placido Polanco in that he does everything except steal bases. His position eligibility and multi-category contributions make him a must-own in every format -- just make sure you have a few speedsters in your fold. .295-70-13-65-2 in 475 AB. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 221 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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12 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 69 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
The Giants were desperate for offense this offseason, so they decided to take a chance on DeRosa. He has been a consistent source of offensive production the past two season, and should continue that trend while batting in the middle of the Giants' order in 2010. He pounded 23 homeruns last season, while collecting 78 runs and 78 RBI. |
Negatives/Downside:
DeRosa's late career power surge was a nice surprise, but don't expect it to continue. He's 35 and moving into a distinct pitcher's park. Furthermore, the Giants offense will be better, but still poor. Furthermore, after his career season in 2008, DeRosa started what is sure to be a swift decline in 2009. Expect that decline to continue in 2010. He has all the makings of being a bust. |
Analysis:
DeRosa's 2008 and 2009 seasons are a lock to be the two best of his career. I don't see him being a complete bust in 2010, but he won't match his 2009 totals, and certainly not his 2008 totals. .265-75-15-75-3 in 520 at bats |
| Recommended Draft Position: 228 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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11 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 107 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Gordon is a true mystery, insomuch as his talent should have come thorugh by now. If you can catch him in a break out year, Gordon has the ability to mash 20+ HR and swipe 15 bags. |
Negatives/Downside:
His downside is basically everything he's done to this point in his career. He'll kill your average and could possibly ruin your season at the corner infield position. |
Analysis:
Gordon gets another season at the hot corner to prove he actually has talent, but it's unlikely that he'll ever actualize his abilities. Even if he can find his power stroke, Gordon's average will sink your team. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 215 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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11 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 90 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
In my leagues we refer to players like Casey Blake as warm milk. They do nothing exciting for you, but they always do it and they don't cost much. You never want to reach for this kind of a guy, but if you plug him in (particularly in a year like this where there are few plus third basemen), the position is done. .280-22-85-80-3. 575ABS |
Negatives/Downside:
Warm milk indeed. The problem with warm milk is that when it goes cold, it's pretty sickly. You can work with the .270 or .280 but what if he hits .241 or .257 as he did in 2003 and 2005? .255-65-15-70-3. 500Abs |
Analysis:
Casey Blake's OPS line for his career is one of those fun little oddities. Starting when Blake became a full timer with Cleveland in 2003 (age 29 no less), his OPS has been .723, .839, .746, .835, .777, .830, .773, .832. Something about those .830's in odd years. Of course it doesn't mean a thing.
Blake is one of those guys whose numbers would be quite a lot better were he to bat 4th more of the time. Of course if you are a Dodger fan you don't want this because, although an .830 OPS is perfectly reasonable, you would be giving up a fair amount of runs by making that switch. For better or worse Blake is hitting where he should and where he will and than means we can expect, yet again, somewhere around 80 R's and RBI and 20 HR to go along with a .270-.280 BA. When you think the third basemen have run out in your draft, don't forget Blake because those numbers do work. .270-78-19-80-3. 525Abs |
| Recommended Draft Position: 227 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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11 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 71 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
McGehee wasn't really on the radar heading into 2009, but ended up being an able producer at 3B. He's also eligible at 2B - a definite plus. If he can approach last year's numbers, he'll be a fantasy asset with dual eligibility. |
Negatives/Downside:
Most think McGehee's 2009 was a bit of a fluke. He's already 27, so it's likely this represents his peak - a position buoyed by his high BABIP and lack of tremendous minor league track record. If Mat Gamel shows he can be adequate at 3B, he may nudge McGehee out of a starting spot. |
Analysis:
At least to begin 2010, McGehee figures to be an asset who's eligible at two infield spots and can provide a little pop. It'd be a good idea to roster another option to safeguard against McGehee likely taking a step back. .260-50-12-50-0 in 420 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 246 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
10 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 90 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Although it's unlikely that his power will increase greatly, LaRoche posted consistently good average throughout his minor league career. He was placed into two bad situations when he was brought up with the Dodgers and then shipped to a failing Pittsburgh squad. The team looks renewed and his contact rate of over 90% last season indicates great control of the strike zone. LaRoche, like all the Bucs will be reliant on context. .280-80-15-75-3. 585ABs |
Negatives/Downside:
The attitude may be improved, but this is essentially the same team as last year except sans his brother Adam and Nate McLouth. Pedro is coming! .250-60-11-60-3. 550ABS |
Analysis:
Pedro Alvarez.
The Pirates Uber-prospect looms over any projections of Andy LaRoche, so you are well advised to keep your ears tuned to news from the Pirates camp as to whether Pedro heads north with the club. If so it is hard to see what happens with LaRoche.
LaRoche now has over 900 major league at-bats separating him from his fine minor league career. Admittedly his triple-A numbers come from Las Vegas, a notorious hitters environment in the Pacific Coast League which has several parks that inflate numbers. Although his numbers look superficially similar in the much less hitter-friendly Southern League, all his good slugging and home run numbers are in Las Vegas (and earlier in Vero Beach which is also a hitter-friendly environment). So he looks like more or less what he has been on the major league level, which is a tweens-power, contact type hitter, the kind of numbers that would look better at second base than third. Although there has been talk of this, there hasn't been any corresponding action.
LaRoche is better than what he has showed and we expect Pedro Alvarez to at least start at triple-A. .260-75-15-70-3. 575ABs |
| Recommended Draft Position: 265 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
8 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 75 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Huff has proven that he has the ability to post 30 plus homerun and 100 plus RBI seasons. 2009 was a down season for Huff, but he has already shown the ability to bounce back after mediocre seasons. In 2007 he hit just .280 with 15 homeruns and 72 RBI. He bounced back to hit .304 with 32 longballs and 108 RBI in 2008. Huff will be a fixture in the heart of the Giants order and is a good candidate to bounce back in 2010. |
Negatives/Downside:
He is far too inconsistent to be relied on, and is coming off of his worst season since he became an everyday starter. At 32, the best is behind him, and we may struggle to improve on what was a disatorous 2009. He moves into a offensively challenged line-up that plays its home games in one of the league's best pitcher's parks. It all adds up to another disappointing season for Huff in 2010. |
Analysis:
The Giants were so desperate to add some power to their offense that they brought in the inconsistent Huff to bat in the middle of their order. Huff really is a huge wildcard. He could put up another season with close to 30 homeruns and a .300 average, or have a season that mirrors his disappointing 2009. I am looking for him to fall somewhere in the middle. .275-70-20-85-0 in 550 at bats |
| Recommended Draft Position: 264 |
Recommendation: Only at a discount |
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$ |
8 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 93 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
Serious power and has a resume of high batting averages in the minor leagues. Fully recovered from the shoulder injury that bothered him last season. Moves out of Petco and has good on base people in front of him. .290-75-25-95-2. 650ABs |
Negatives/Downside:
He plays 3B it is true, but otherwise he resembles nothing so much as Jeff Francoeur. Which is to say all of his value is dependent on staying in the middle of the order and if his average drops (not unusual for an NL player moving to the junior circuit) he could easily find himself out of the prime spot in a batting order that we would charitably says doesn't go all the way around. .255-55-18-70-1. 500ABs |
Analysis:
2009:
Petco .220BA .382SLG
Away .287BA .455SLG
2008
Petco .226BA .390SLG
Away .292BA .473SLG
Oakland is clearly not the finest context in all of baseball, but the stadium is a clear improvement coming from Petco and for better or worse Ryan Sweeney, Daric Barton and Rajai Davis all get on well. Kouz still scores like an NL backstop, but even with Petco and recovering from a shoulder problem he drove in 88. So when you get to the end of the draft and find yourself grabbing for a 3B, don't forget about him, eh? .280-60-25-90-1. 575ABs
|
| Recommended Draft Position: 271 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
7 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 76 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Potential. If Wood can harness some if his ability, he's a threat to hit around .285 and swat 20 HR. |
Negatives/Downside:
He's never done anything at the big league level. |
Analysis:
Wood is full of potential and now, finally, gets a chance to play every day in LA. In the minors Wood has been an all-star but has faltered in every opportunity in the big league. If he can translate some of his minor league success into major league league success, he'll be a good value |
| Recommended Draft Position: 272 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
7 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 95 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Inge has always had power, which he demonstrated with 27 HR in 2009. If you can absorb the hit in batting average, Inge offers value as a late round power source. |
Negatives/Downside:
If Inge doesn't hit HRs, he won't do much to help your team. Alarmingly, his HR/FB leaped to 13.6%, way above his career mark of 8.3%. This represents a major warning sign that Inge's HR total won't approach the late twenties again. His career average is .236 and he hardly ever steals. |
Analysis:
We've all been there. It's late in the draft, you look at your roster and see your offense is still lacking in firepower. It's worth taking a look at Inge. Even if he doesn't hit 27 HR again, he should be good for decent power production, to go along with a bad average and few steals. .230-65-18-65-1 in 550 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 273 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
7 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 80 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Rolen will help out in average but little else. |
Negatives/Downside:
He's a below average player in almost all categories. |
Analysis:
Only in the deep and NL-only leagues should you really consider Scott Rolen. Rolen has transformed himself into a singles hitter, as his power seems to be lost to time. If you need a boast in average, Rolen will be your man. Don't expect much contribution from Rolen outside of average -- he's the National League version of Casey Kotchman. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 311 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
6 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 94 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
He'll hit a few home runs. Afterall, Minute Maid is a good hitters park and he will visit Coors a couple of times. .255-60-15-70-0. 550ABS |
Negatives/Downside:
This is all happening with an 85% contact rate. Sure he's striking out less but that's not improving anything and what happens when his bat slows down even a little bit? A .600 OPS? .240-35-10-30-0. 325ABs |
Analysis:
in 2009 Feliz posted a .695 OPS which was poor, but he hadn't posted a mark above .717 since the first year-and-a-half of his career way back when. This despite hitting in a highly favorable park and for a championship offense.
He's never gotten on base at all, his .308 OBP in 2009 was actually a career high. It's hard to believe that his fine hot corner glove work could possibly save as many runs as he costs the team at the plate. On a team like Philadelphia which had no problem scoring runs, they could afford to keep the likable Feliz around. But what is the offensively challenged Houston franchise doing bringing in a 35 (in April) year-old veteran who probably wouldn't be much better offensively than a triple-A middle infielder?
Another year older and in the context of the Astro's team, it's hard to be optimistic about Feliz' chances to contribute. .250-45-12-50-0. 450ABs |
| Recommended Draft Position: 313 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
6 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 85 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
The guy can plain hit! In four pro seasons, he has never posted an average below .300, and has displayed plenty of pop in the minors. The Cards considered making Freese an everyday player in 2009, but decided to give him another year of seasoning in the minors. After another successful minor league season, the Cards are ready to give the soon to be 27-year old the third base job in 2010. |
Negatives/Downside:
Sure, he slugged his way through the minors, but was "old" for his league at every stop. After bashing 26 homers in AA in 2008, he collected just 13 in four stops in 2009. The decrease in his power numbers raises a real question about the legitimacy of his power stroke. Taking a chance on a 27-year old rookie is not a great bet in the fantasy game. |
Analysis:
An everyday starting job in a good line-up, a lot of upside, and a strong track record? Sounds pretty darn good to me. Freese is an excellent sleeper in 2010, and someone who very well could outproduce their draft position/auction value. He'll certainly be on a number of my fantasy rosters this season. .285-75-15-75-0 in 525 at bats |
| Recommended Draft Position: 310 |
Recommendation: Go the extra dollar |
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$ |
6 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 71 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Sneaky speed and excellent baserunning skills. Decent on-base skills and good minor league contact rates. .275-75-10-65-25. 550ABs |
Negatives/Downside:
Major league strikeout rates much higher than minor league numbers. He adjusted well after the first month of 2009, but it remains a question whether he can hit major league pitchers. Little power and questionable average along with a weak context hitting near the bottom of the Oakland lineup. .255-50-5-45-10. 425ABs |
Analysis:
Because his number in 2008 and 2009 are split between different teams on different levels, a lot of people aren't aware that Pennington stole 31 bases in 115 games in 2008 and then 34 between triple-A and The Show last year. That's too bad because the former Aggie is a terrific baserunner if not a prototypical burner. He can also play all over the field and play well.
What is less good is that people may take away from Pennington's four home runs that he has some kind of pop in his bat and that, as of now, is unlikely to be the case. He's a smallish player and there are no secondary numbers to back up an immediate hope for additional dingers. He's probably not a tremendous on-base player, but he gets on base better than league average and should score runs if the context in Oakland allows.
Pennington loses his multi-position eligibility in most leagues, which hurts his value. But he is still usable in MI leagues and a low end SS in larger formats due to his speed. .275-65-7-50-25. 475ABs |
| Recommended Draft Position: 276 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
6 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 84 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Glaus was a very prolific power hitter between 2005 and 2008, averaging 31 homers and 91 RBI. A back injury all but washed out his 2009 season, but he should be back jacking them out as ATlanta's everyday first baseman in 2010. .265-65-28-90-1 in 500 AB |
Negatives/Downside:
Glaus' injury history is downright scary, and it's not a safe bet that he plays a full season. Even when he's out there, his low BA will drag down your fantasy team like the proverbial boat anchor. .235-35-15-50-0 in 350 AB |
Analysis:
If you're thin on power stats, Glaus is a nice speculative pick in the final rounds of your fantasy draft. Be prepared for him to miss some time, and make sure you have some high-BA guys on board. .255-50-25-75-0 in 425 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 300 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
5 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 91 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Izturis can help in all offensive categories, but needs the at bats to make an impact. |
Negatives/Downside:
Playing time. He can't put up the stats if he doesn't play. |
Analysis:
Izturis looks like he'll come off the bench this season but can have instant value if there's injury in the Angels' infield or Brandon Wood doesn't pan out. He doesn't have a ton of power, but with consistent playing time, could reach double digits while helping out across the board. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 357 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
4 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 72 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
In a perfect world for the Tribe Grady Sizemore is healthy, Shin-Soo Choo has a monster year and just behind them Russell Branyan connects for 30. His strikeout rate last season of 34.6% was actually the second best of his career. .255-60-30-85-4. 550ABs |
Negatives/Downside:
It seems impossible that Cleveland won't give Matt LaPorta and Michael Brantley an extended chance this season and if they do, it's hard to see where both Branyan and Cleveland favorite Travis Hafner will carve out enough playing time to be viable fantasy players. Without a doubt Branyan will be shopped all year long as the Indians fall farther and farther out. .240-40-15-50-2. 325ABs |
Analysis:
The Indians just publicly acknowledged that paying $10.5 million this season for Kerry Wood to close didn't make sense for a team that was unlikely to compete.
So they went out and signed Russell Branyan.
They already have Travis Hafner and Branyan now probably puts one of the two prime players that they received for C.C. Sabathia either on the bench or in the minors. True, a Matt LaPorta first base was likely to be an ugly thing.
None of which change Branyan's value much. He's still going to go out and hammer a home run ever 15 at-bats, a bit better in a good year and a bit worse in a bad one. He moves to a Cleveland park that will play similarly to Seattle but where he will possibly have quite a few more baserunners depending on where they actually hit him. Branyan actually got on at .347 last season which was his second best clip of his career, but he's still unlikely to score many runs at all because the end of Cleveland's order looks pretty awful. .250-50-21-65-1. 475Abs
|
| Recommended Draft Position: 361 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
4 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 98 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
He is a source of cheap power and plays for a team lacks exactly that. He hit .289 last season. |
Negatives/Downside:
He doesn't figure to see regular at bats unless injury strikes. His .289 average in 2009 is 32 points higher than his career average. |
Analysis:
Uribe is a solid middle or corner infielder in NL only leagues, who could really pay off if he finds his way into the line-up one way or another. Don't bother in mixed leagues. .260-45-15-50-2 in 350 at bats |
| Recommended Draft Position: 355 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
4 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 91 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
When he's on, Atkins can mash with the best of them. At his best he'll hit 20+ HR and 100+ RBI, but it's hard to see him doing that again. |
Negatives/Downside:
2009. A stat line of .226-37-9-48-0. That's about as low as you can drop. |
Analysis:
Atkins has always benefited from two things -- Coors Field and steroids. Now, I'm not sure there's any proof of him actually doing steroids, but his 2009 numbers would certainly suggest it. It seems peculiar to me that at age 29, his supposed prime, Atkins could come off a three year average of .305-95-25-110 to the abyss in which he found himself last year. His numbers have declined every year since strict steroid enforcement has been in place, and it would explain this Black Thursday-like plummeting of his numbers. Now he's without the assistance of Coors -- not a receipt for success. Treat Atkins like he has fantasy leprosy, so unless you're Jesus, keep a sound distance away. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 360 |
Recommendation: Avoid |
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$ |
4 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 72 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
If Mora can get back on track he's certainly capable of hitting 15+ HR and driving in 75+ RBI. |
Negatives/Downside:
His overall deterioration could continue this season. |
Analysis:
Mora's stats dropped off the table a bit at age 38 and was eventually expelled from Baltimore. Now in Colorado, Mora has the opportunity to hit in the middle of an up start Rockies' line-up and could prove reasonably useful in a NL only league. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 379 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
3 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 70 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Gamel made a name for himself in the minors as a 3B who could mash, then last season got an extended taste of big league pitching. While he doesn't enter 2010 as a starter, one can imagine several scenarios that result in him getting significant playing time. With regular ABs, Gamel has the ability to produce average (career .302 hitter in the minors) and power. |
Negatives/Downside:
The position conundrum is huge for Gamel. His quickest path to ABs is at 3B, where Casey McGehee is likely to regress, but he's still well below average at the position. If he can't play 3B, he only will play if there is a trade or injury at 1B or possibly RF. Discouragingly, Gamel struggled with the bat last year - he wasn't terrible at Triple-A, but well below his 2008 performance, and he didn't wow the Brewers in 148 PA. |
Analysis:
For 2010, Gamel is probably a player to either avoid or stash on your bench (depending on league size, depth, etc.). It's just too hard to imagine him getting regular at-bats, particularly at the onset of the season. He clearly has strong keeper value as the Brewers have some tough decisions upcoming on Prince Fielder and Corey Hart, or they could trade him someplace that offers a more certain path to playing time. Generally, a bat like Gamel's will find its way into a lineup somehow, somewhere. In this case, it might not happen until later in 2010 or 2011. .270-30-8-30-1 in 200 AB |
| Recommended Draft Position: 378 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
3 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 85 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Unlimited long term upside except he doesn't run. Tremendous power and fields enough to stay at third. .260-70-23-80-1. 475ABs |
Negatives/Downside:
They aren't going to rush him, so he may not play. It's very possible given his strikeout rates that he would fail at the major league level without further seasoning in the high minors. .230-25-7-25-0. 200ABs |
Analysis:
Pedro Alvarez was the second overall pick in the 2008 amateur draft out of the fine Vanderbilt program. Pedro struggled slightly in high-A ball where he was initially assigned, but then ripped the cover off double-A upon promotion, batting .333 with a 1.009 OPS. And this in Altoona for The Curve which is not an easy place to hit.
The Pirates are going to take it easy with their #1 prospect, but if he is ready he will play. Pedro has tons of power, he slammed 27 home runs in his 126 professional games. He strikes out a lot - his one K in every four at-bats as a professional was mirrored in his college record. So if he does win a job there's every possibility that major league pitchers will be able to handle him.
You want Pedro Alvarez even if he does not go north with the team as he is almost certain to be up sometime during the seasons and for regular work. When he arrives there will be great rejoicing in steel city. .270-30-10-35-1. 250ABs |
| Recommended Draft Position: 377 |
Recommendation: Go the extra dollar |
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$ |
3 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 67 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Wigginton has some power and could see some extended playing time if Atkins flames out again. |
Negatives/Downside:
He'll primarily be a backup. |
Analysis:
Wigginton is a super sub but could provide some decent power numbers for any AL only team in need of it. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 444 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
2 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 73 0 |
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Positives/Upside:
He has power, that's undeniable. |
Negatives/Downside:
He's aged quickly and won't see many at-bats. |
Analysis:
Blalock has signed a minor league deal with the Rays and will likely serve as an insurance policy for Carlos Pena. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 443 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
2 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 70 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Now in his mid-30s, his best days are well behind him. But, in deeper leagues, he could provide a spark from your CI position. |
Negatives/Downside:
If injuries get the best of him again this year, it could be his last. He's been terribly unproductive the last two years and that trend will more than likely spill over into 2010. |
Analysis:
Injuries have plagued Guillen the last few years, so if he's healthy, a return to form isn't out of the question. Expect Guillen to be in double digit home run range, while posting average numbers in RBI and runs. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 422 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
1 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 87 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Power. We know Encarnacion can mash the ball, but that's about the extent of his abilities. If he can have a rebound year, 20-25 HR isn't out of the question. |
Negatives/Downside:
Batting average and injuries. He's a negative player in battling average and seems to have trouble staying on the field. |
Analysis:
Encarnacion really struggled after being acquired by the Blue Jays at the deadline. He'll never help your average but he could find his power stroke now that he's more comfortable north of the boarder. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 270 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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$ |
1 |
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$ |
0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 58 0 |
|
Positives/Upside:
Bautista doesn't do anything particularly well, but does possess some pop in his bat. He could challenge 20+ if he has a career year. |
Negatives/Downside:
He'll kill your average and generally won't make an impact in any one category |
Analysis:
He'll have an opportunity to play everyday in Toronto in 2010, but don't get fooled into drafting him. Whatever positive numbers he'll put up in home runs will be mitigated by a brutally low batting average. |
| Recommended Draft Position: 603 |
Recommendation: Buy at cost |
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1 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 52 0 |
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0.0 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 70 0 |
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0.0 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 70 0 |
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0.0 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 79 0 |
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0.0 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 77 0 |
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0.0 |
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0.0 (0) |
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Fantasy Baseball » Hitters
Hits: 94 0 |
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