FakeTeams

Fantasy Baseball: Ray's Third Base Rankings For 2010

2010-03-18T13:00:35Z

Kathy Willens - AP

16 days ago: New York Yankees Alex Rodriguez looks at his bat before taking batting practice during baseball spring training at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Fla., Monday, March 1, 2010. Federal agents reportedly questioned Rodriguez in connection with a Canadian doctor they are investigating who provided an unapproved substance to baseball players. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)

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We move on to the hot corner for the Top 20 rankings and the Yankees Alex Rodriguez leads the way. Hitting in the new Coors Field, I mean Yankee Stadium, ARod could approach 50 homers in 2010. The second guy on this list isn't David Wright. He has to prove his power loss was a fluke in 2009.

Here are the Top 20 third baseman for 2010 fantasy drafts, with 2009 stats:

Name	AB	HR	R	RBI	BB	SO	SB	AVG
Alex Rodriguez	444	30	78	100	80	97	14	0.286
Mark Reynolds	578	44	98	102	76	223	24	0.260
Ryan Zimmerman	610	33	110	106	72	119	2	0.292
Evan Longoria	584	33	100	113	72	140	9	0.281
David Wright	535	10	88	72	74	140	27	0.307
Aramis Ramirez	306	15	46	65	28	43	2	0.317
Pablo Sandoval	572	25	79	90	52	83	5	0.330
Kevin Youkilis	491	27	99	94	77	125	7	0.305
Gordon Beckham	378	14	58	63	41	65	7	0.270
Chone Figgins	615	5	114	54	101	114	42	0.298
Adrian Beltre	449	8	54	44	19	74	13	0.265
Chipper Jones	488	18	80	71	101	89	4	0.264
Michael Young	541	22	76	68	47	90	8	0.322
Casey Blake	485	18	84	79	63	116	3	0.280
Ian Stewart	425	25	74	70	56	138	7	0.228
Mike Lowell	445	17	54	75	33	61	2	0.290
Mark DeRosa	515	23	78	78	47	121	3	0.250
Kevin Kouzmanoff	529	18	50	88	27	106	1	0.255
Jorge Cantu	585	16	67	100	47	81	3	0.289
Scott Rolen	475	11	76	67	45	62	5	0.305

I rank David Wright 5th because I think he can rebound to maybe 20 HRs in 2010. That along with the 25+ SB potential, a .300 BA and hopefully, 90+ RBIs is valuable. But should he return to hit less than 20 HRs in 2010, he could drop out of the top 10 for me. He can't put up another 10 HR/72 RBI line this season.

I like Mark Reynolds at the two spot in the third base rankings in 2010, because he has legit 35+ HR power, and Diamondbacks manager AJ Finch will allow him to run again. I see another 35-20 season from Reynolds in 2010.

A couple guys who could move up this list in 2010 are the Giants Pablo Sandoval and White Sox Gordon Beckham. Sandoval has the power to hit 30 HRs in 2010. His power and BA could move him up a few spots on this list. GBeck played third base last year, but will move to second base in 2010. I rank him here as he does not yet have the minimum games played eligibility at 2B to be ranked there for 2010 fantasy drafts. He does, however, have the talent to go 20-10 in 2010, while ESPN's Jason Grey thinks he could hit 25 HRs with a .288 BA.

A couple guys coming off injuries are the Braves Chipper Jones and the Red Sox Adrian Beltre. Both will be undervalued in 2010 drafts, and could have bounce back seasons. I could see both approaching 25 HRs and 90 RBIs in 2010. Jones, if he proves healthy, should hit .300 again.

One guy who could play as a "post hype" sleeper is the Pirates third baseman Andy Laroche. Laroche was the Dodgers #1 prospect a few years ago, but his power and plate patience displayed in the minors never translated at the big league level in Los Angeles. Laroche is in his second year as the Pirates starting third baseman, and could begin to show the 25+ HR power he had in the minors this year. If not, he will be replaced by third base prospect Pedro Alvarez.

Poll

Does David Wright's power return in 2010, or will Citifield sap the power from the Mets lineup?

Fantasy Baseball: Wednesdays's Spring Training Roundup

2010-03-18T11:30:16Z

Mark Duncan - AP

13 days ago: Cincinnati Reds' Aroldis Chapman pitches in an intrasquad game at baseball spring training Thursday, March 4, 2010, in Goodyear, Ariz. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)

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Here are some thoughts after looking over some spring training boxscores from Wednesday's action:

The Nationals released outfielder Elijah Dukes yesterday. It appears the Nats are saying it is because he wasn't hitting this spring, and he couldn't hit a breaking ball. I don't buy it. Nevertheless, this opens up a job for Justin Maxwell or Willie Harris. Or Mike Morse. Or Jermaine Dye. Stay tuned.

Rockies closer Huston Street had some tihgtness in his throwing shoulder and appears to be headed to the DL to start the season. Street had a great 2009 season for the Rockies and fantasy owners. Franklin Morales and Manny Corpas will vie for the Rockies closer gig until Street returns.

Braves starter Tommy Hanson threw 5 innings of one run ball on Wednesday, giving up 6 hits while striking out 4. Hanson should be one of the top starters in the NL in 2010.

Marlins outfielder Cameron Maybin returned to action but only got one at bat yesterday. Is he still hurting? Scott Cousins or Brett Carroll could see some action should Maybin begin the year on the DL. Or, could Mike Stanton stay up with the big team?

Jake Peavy threw 5 innings of one run ball, giving up 3 hits and 2 walks, while striking out 6. He continues to dominate the Dodgers. Will he be the old Peavy pitching in Chicago?

Aroldis Chapman made his first spring start, throwing 3 innings, giving up a leadoff HR to Rickie Weeks, and struck out 5. Chapman has a 1.29 spring ERA, and is on my radar for the UBA minor league draft.

Royals third baseman Alberto Callaspo was 3-3 with 2 runs scored raising his spring BA to .448. Remember when the Royals were looking to trade him this ofseason, and now he is their starting third baseman with Alex Gordon injured.

Rangers outfielder Josh Hamilton returned to the lineup and went 1-3 with his second spring HR. Does he hit 30 HRs if he stays healthy? Does he stay healthy, is a better question.

Mariners closer David Aardsma couldn't get out of the 5th inning, giving up 4 runs on 3 hits and a walk. He served up Nelson Cruz's second HR of the game, and hi spring ERA is now over 15.

Sean Rodriguez just continues to hit, going 2-3 with 2 runs scored on Wednesday. Does he become trade bait in 2010?

Indians starter Carlos Carrasco pitched 4 shutout innings on Wednesday giving up only one walk, and striking out 3. Is this the season where he puts it all together?

Rockies starter Jorge De La Rosa gave up 2 runs on 4 hits and a walk in 5 innings. He struck out 6 and has a 1.93 ERA this spring. Is he becoming a top 20 starter in NL-only leagues? I am curious what he goes for in my two NL-only auction drafts in the next few weeks.

Poll

Which Rockies closer are you drafting on draft day?

Down On The Farm: Stephen Strasburg Hype Has Reached an Extreme

2010-03-18T10:59:21Z

More photos » Charlie Riedel - AP

8 days ago: Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg throws during the second inning of a spring training baseball game against the Detroit Tigers on Tuesday, March 9, 2010, in Viera, Fla. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

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First we had Jason Heyward mentioned in the same breath as Albert Pujols, now its moved to Stephen Strasburg courtesy of Fantasy Alpha.

He went for $9 in the LABR draft a few weeks ago.

Zach Abrams SS Rankings

2010-03-17T14:06:18Z

Rankings are based on 5x5 Rotisserie Scoring.

1- Hanley Ramnirez

2- Jimmy Rollins

3- Troy Tulowitski

4- Derek Jeter

5- Jose Reyes

10- Alexi Ramirez

11- Jason Bartlett

12- Rafael Furcal

13- Everth Cabrera

14- Miguel Tejada

15- Erick Aybar

Names and things to Consider

Jose Reyes: How will his injury affect his draft status and the 2010 season statistics?

Stephen Drew: Can he rebound from his sub par sophmore season. I think he does come back strong.

Dustin Pedroia: Possibly will gain SS eligibility, something to keep in mind

Everth Cabrera: How much can he get on base? Once he does he is gone.

Miguel Tejada: Ressurgence in Baltimore? May provide excellent late round value for your MI slot,.

I also am very high on Jimmy Rollins coming into this year. He had a horrible first half of the season, but put up solid numbers, right inline with his career statistics in the second half. There were rumors about his health in the first half, which may explain his bad performance. Dont forget his upside... If you do, Go Look at his MVP season stats.... Acquiring him in the third round maybe a STEAL.

Poll

Are you concerned with Jose Reyes Injury?

Fantasy Baseball: Tuesday's Spring Training Roundup

2010-03-17T11:30:14Z

Darren Calabrese - AP

12 days ago: Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Cole Hamels throws during a baseball spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays in Dunedin, Fla. Friday, March 5, 2010. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Darren Calabrese)

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Here are a few thoughts after looking over Tuesday's spring training boxscores:

Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum gave up 4 runs on 4 hits, 4 walks and 4 strikeouts in 4 innings of work on Tuesday. Lincecum is apparently working on his slider grip, or so he says. Is this the year Lincecum blows up? I need to know because I kept him at $23 in one of my keeper leagues.

Phillies outfield prospect Domonic Brown went 3-3 with 2 HRs and 4 RBI. One of his HRs was hit off of Tigers ace Justin Verlander. The other was hit off of a lefty. Keeper league and dynasty league owners shouldn't forget Brown's name come draft day.

Phillies pitcher Cole Hamels is also in mid-season form after going 5 innings, giving up 1 unearned run on 2 hits, while striking out 4. He lowered his ERA to 1.69. It appears he will bounce back after a mediocre 2009 season. Draft accordingly.

Tigers outfield prospect Austin Jackson had one of the three Tigers hits and also stole his 2nd base of spring training. The Tigers have found themselves a leadoff hitter.

The Padres ran wild again on Tuesday stealing 6 bases vs the Angels. A couple sleeper for NL-only league owners are Luis Durango and Aaron Cunningham, as both had 2 SBs on Tuesday. Bud Black apparently doesn't have a stop sign with runners on base. Everth Cabrera can safely be drafted a few round earlier if this keeps up.

Angels third baseman Brandon Wood went 2-2 and is now hitting .300 thus far. The question remains whether he will hit at the major league level.

Diamondbacks pitcher Edwin Jackson ran into the hot hitting Reds and gave up 7 runs on 6 hits, 2 walks and no strikeouts in 2.1 innings on Tuesday. This Dodgers fan hopes the former Dodger continues to get hit around like that.

Who hits leadoff for the Diamondbacks in 2010? If Kelly Johnson continues to hit like this, he may be the guy. KJ is had 2 hits on Tuesday and is hitting .350 in spring training. He has the power to hit double digit HRs, but is prone to long slumps.

White Sox leadoff hitter Juan Pierre had 3 hits, a run scored and an RBI on Tuesday. Pierre should be good for 50+ SBs in 2010 if he plays everyday.

Phil Hughes may have just won the 5th starter spot in the Yankees rotation after throwing 4 shutout innings vs the Astros, giving up 3 hits, a walk and 2 strikeouts. He lowered his spring ERA to 2.08.

Astros catching prospect Jason Castro had a hit and a walk and is hitting .467 this spring. Is he the Astros starting catcher in April?

Poll

How high will Everth Cabrera be drafted in mixed leagues after seeing how often the Padres are stealing this spring?

Fantasy Baseball: Ray's Keeper List for NL-Only League

2010-03-17T02:51:15Z

Mark J. Terrill - ASSOCIATED PRESS

about 1 month ago: Los Angeles Dodgers' Andre Ethier reacts after walking with bases loaded during the eighth inning of Game 2 of the National League Championship baseball series against the Philadelphia Phillies Friday, Oct. 16, 2009, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)

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On Monday, I had to submit my keeper list in one of my NL-only keeper leagues. I have been in this league for 14-15 years now, and have won the league 3 of the last 4 years. I traded away some of my top keepers last year to ensure I won the league, so it was all worth it. But, I do have some decent keepers going into 2010:

James Loney-$11

Dan Uggla-$17

Andre Ethier-$20

Tim Lincecum-$23

Ricky Nolasco-$18

Obviously, my pitching is my strength going into my March 28th draft, and there are plenty of SB guys in the draft including Jimmy Rollins, Jose Reyes, Andrew McCutchen, Drew Stubbs and Dexter Fowler.

In this league, after keeper lists are submitted, any player not retained is thrown into a pool for the waiver draft. The waiver draft allows any team that did not keep 10 players to pick up any guy thrown back. Some of the players picked up in the waiver draft to this point are Jeff Francoeur at $12, Cody Ross at $15, Francisco Rodriguez at $23, and Chris Iannetta at $6.

A couple guys I am considering to pick up are Jimmy Rollins at $35, Matt Lindstrom at $7 and Lastings Milledge at $15. I am leaning toward not picking up one of these players. What should I do?

Poll

Who should I pick up in the waiver draft?

Fantasy Baseball: Ray's Shortstop Rankings for 2010

2010-03-16T19:00:37Z

Jeff Roberson - AP

22 days ago: Florida Marlins shortstop Hanley Ramirez throws while taking infield practice during spring training baseball on Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010, in Jupiter, Fla. A year ago, Ramirez arrived in camp 25 pounds heavier, most of it muscle thanks to a rigorous offseason regimen. Then he hit .342 with 106 RBIs, both career highs, and won his first batting title. This winter he concentrated on building up his lower body, and he reported for spring training Tuesday eager to lead the Marlins to the playoffs. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

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Continuing in our Top 20 rankings, I discuss the Top 20 shortstops for 2010 fantasy drafts. Hanley Ramirez is the top shortstop in baseball, but the gap between him and guys like Troy Tulowitzki and Jimmy Rollins is narrowing, in my opinion. I have written here previously that Hanley's HR and SB trends are going in the wrong direction, and he could be a fantasy bust in 2010. Now the possibility of that happening is very small, but every year one of the first round picks has a down year-see David Wright and Jose Reyes.

Here are the Top 20 shortstops for 2010:

Name	AB	HR	R	RBI	BB	SO	SB	AVG
Hanley Ramirez	576	24	101	106	61	101	27	0.342
Troy Tulowitzki	543	32	101	92	73	112	20	0.297
Jimmy Rollins	672	21	100	77	44	70	31	0.250
Derek Jeter	634	18	107	66	72	90	30	0.334
Jose Reyes	147	2	18	15	18	19	11	0.279
Yunel Escobar	528	14	89	76	57	62	5	0.299
Stephen Drew	533	12	71	65	49	87	5	0.261
Alexei Ramirez	542	15	71	68	49	66	14	0.277
Jason Bartlett	500	14	90	66	54	89	30	0.320
Asdrubal Cabrera	523	6	81	68	44	89	17	0.308
Miguel Tejada	635	14	83	86	19	48	5	0.313
Elvis Andrus	480	6	72	40	40	77	33	0.267
Marco Scutaro	574	12	100	60	90	75	14	0.282
Rafael Furcal	613	9	92	47	61	89	12	0.269
J.J. Hardy	414	11	53	47	43	85	0	0.229
Alcides Escobar	125	1	20	11	4	18	4	0.304
Everth Cabrera	377	2	59	31	46	88	25	0.255
Orlando Cabrera	656	9	83	77	36	71	13	0.284
Ryan Theriot	602	7	81	54	51	93	21	0.284
Erick Aybar	504	5	70	58	30	54	14	0.312

There are six guys on this list who can steal 30 bases or more, and maybe 7 guys who could hit 20+ HRs in 2010. I see Jimmy Rollins improving in the BA category in 2010, while maintaining his 20 HR/30 SB pace. I don't see Jason Bartlett hitting for the same power in 2010, nor will he steal 30 bases, but he could steal 20.

Derek Jeter stole 30 bases in 2009. Where did that come from at his age? I can see his BA and SB totals dropping a bit in 2010, but he could hit the 20 HR level. One of these years, Yunel Escobar is going to break out, and I can see him going 20-100 in the next few seasons.

Stephen Drew should have a bounce back season as I think he could return to the 15-20 HR level with a .280 BA in 2010. Another guy I see bouncing back is the Twins shortstop J.J. Hardy. Hardy suffered through a horrendous year in 2009, but I can see him returning to his 20 HR output. His BA, BABIP and HR/FB rates were close to career lows in 2009. I see him regressing to his mean and putting up a season similar to his 2008 season where he went 24-74-.283.

A sleeper not listed is Nationals shortstop prospect Ian Desmond. Desmond is battling veteran Christian Guzman this spring. Even if he doesn't win the job out of spring training, Desmond should be the Nats shortstop by the end of the season, so he is one to watch.

Poll

Who will have the better fantasy season in 2010-Tulo or Hanley?

Fantasy Baseball: Jason's Shortstop Rankings

2010-03-16T16:01:08Z

Ben Margot - AP

8 months ago: Oakland Athletics second baseman Mark Ellis, left, can't make the catch on a throw by catcher Kurt Suzuki in effort to prevent Colorado Rockies' Troy Tulowitzki, right, from stealing second base in the sixth inning of a baseball game Sunday, June 28, 2009, in Oakland, Calif. Tulowitzki advanced to third base on the play. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)

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We will continue on with our wrtiers' rankings today, as we now move to the shortstop position.

Shortstop is surprisingly deep to me this season, as there are useful players all the way past 14. Some specific player notes:

I don't trust Jose Reyes. The upside is there, but the injuries concern me, and for where I would have to draft him, I doubt he will be on any of my teams.
I think that Jimmy Rollins should have a bounceback season this year, and could vault into the top 10 if he does.
Alcides Escobar is coming into the season with a lock on the Brewers' job, and I think he could be a nice source of batting average and stolen bases.
Count me in as a believer in both Ben Zobrist and Marco Scutaro. I think Scutaro will be helped even more by the Red Sox lineup, and should score a lot of runs to go with double-digit steals and homeruns.
J.J. Hardy also has some nice upside, as he could return to his power form when he hit 26 and 24 HR in back to back seasons.
Don't be fooled by Rafael Furcal. He's become a much better real-life player than fantasy player at this point, and is probably getting by a lot more in fantasy circles based on his name.

There's really not a lot of prospects in the high minors, but the one to watch is probably going to be Starlin Castro of the Cubs. He has already been told he will start the season in AAA Iowa, but could very well end up in the Majors playing either 2B or SS if he performs in Iowa.

Poll

Will Troy Tulowitzki steal 20 bases again this season?

ILLZ 2B rankings

2010-03-16T15:02:50Z

More photos » Gregory Smith - AP

Chase Utley tops the 2B rankings for the 176th season in a row.

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Tier 1:

1 - Chase Utley

2 - Ian Kinsler

3 - Dustin Pedroia

Tier 2:

4 - Robinson Cano

5 - Brandon Phillips

6 - Brian Roberts

7 - Aaron Hill

8 - Ben Zobirst

Tier 3:

9 - Gordon Beckham

10 - Howie Kendrick

11 - Jose Lopez

12 - Dan Uggla

13 - Rickie Weeks

14 - Ian Stewart

15 - Placido Polanco

16 - Asdrubal Cabrera

Not really much to comment on here. The tiers seem to be pretty clear cut across the board. One thing I'd like to note: If you're in keeper leagues, Gordon Beckham should be moved up a few pegs. He has the most upside at the position by far. Ray has already posted that he could be the next Chase Utley for 2B fantasy purposes. Temper your expectations a bit for this year, as there will certainly be growing pains, but this time next year Beckham should be about ranked in the top 5 at 2B.

Fantasy Baseball: Monday's Spring Training Roundup

2010-03-16T11:30:15Z

More photos » Jeff Chiu - AP

7 days ago: Oakland Athletics' Ben Sheets throws warm up pitches before facing the Chicago White Sox in the first inning of a spring training baseball game in Phoenix, Ariz., Wednesday, March 10, 2010. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)

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Here are a few thoughts after reviewing Monday's spring training boxscores:

Billy Beane probably had a few cocktails after Ben Sheet's outing on Monday. There's not much to say as Sheets did not get a single Reds hitter out, as he gave up 10 runs, 9 earned, on 8 hits and a walk in the first inning. Would it surprise you to hear Sheets is hurt again?

Brewer's rookie shortstop Alcides Escobar went 2-4 to raise his BA to .462 this spring. If he continues to hit like this, he may steal 40+ bases.

Boston's David Ortiz went 2-3 with a HR and 2 RBI to to raise his BA to .143 this spring. Another slow start for Ortiz without Manny.

Roy Halladay is already in mid-season form as he threw 5 innings, giving up 1 run on 3 hits, 2 walks and 6 strikeouts. Don't believe the 20+ wins projections you are hearing everywhere, especially with the Phillies bullpen. Remember what the same people were saying about Johan Santana coming over from the Twins to the Mets two years ago? How he would win 20+ games facing the pitcher 3 times a game, yadda yadda. How did that turn out?

Lastings Milledge is proving he belongs this spring as he is hitting .381 so far. I think Milledge will surprise people in 2010. A post-post-hype hitter?

The Mets outfield prospect Fernando Martinez was 2-4 with 2 RBI vs the Cardinals on Monday. He raised his BA to .591. Are the Mets better with Martinez in centerfield till Carlos Beltran comes back?

Nationals pitching prospect Drew Storen gave up his first two runs this spring on 3 hits, a walk and 2 strikeouts. How soon before he is closing games in Washington?

Twins closer candidate Francisco Liriano gave up 3 runs in 3 innings on Monday, giving up 4 hits, one a HR, and striking out 6. Marlins outfield prospect Mike Stanton took his deep in the 3rd inning with two out. Liriano may be better suited in a closers role.

Mariners pitcher Cliff Lee gave up 4 runs on 6 hits and a walk in 2.2 innings vs the Diamondbacks on Monday. I am on record saying Lee will have a Cole Hamels-like season in 2010.

Poll

Are the Mets a better team with Fernando Martinez in centerfield instead of Angel Pagan?

Fake Teams Mixed 5 x 5 Fantasy League on CBSSports.com

2010-03-16T01:57:42Z

I have sent out the invites to the other 11 owners in the Fake Teams Mixed League over at CBSSports.com

I have decided to change the draft date to Thursday March 25th at 8:30pm, and it will be an online snake draft. The draft will be 23 rounds, rotisserie style rosters. The league will have 12 teams.

The 11 teams I will be competing with are:

Sickler

Remis

Ramy

Peluso

Norm

Henson

Hayes

Goats

Dispoto

Casper

Wiley

League categories are:

Runs

RBIs

HRs

SBs

Wins (I can be swayed to change it to another pitching category like quality starts)

Saves

ERA

WHIP

Strikeouts

Here is the URL for the Fake Teams league:

http://faketeamsmixed.baseball.cbssports.com/

For those of you interested in creating your own fantasy baseball leagues over at CBSSports.com to receive your 50% off the regular $180 site fees, click on the following URL:

http://baseball.cbssports.com/splash/baseball/spin/mgmt/offer/a?ttag=fbbc10_on_all_sbnat_os_iab_0013

CBSSports.com is an SB Nation partner and paying sponsor of the SB Nation baseball communities. This post is one of a series of sponsor endorsed posts relating to teh CBSSports.com Fantasy Baseball Commissioner League.

Please let me know if you can make the draft date. Thanks.

ILLZ's 2nd draft results

2010-03-15T19:59:58Z

I actually had two drafts yesterday, one at 11 AM and the other at 5 PM. This league is my favorite, and longest running league. Standard 5x5 roto, 10 teams with 7 keepers, no snake draft. It has a bit of an interesting pitching setup, however. Intending to simulate a real pitching rotation, you can only have 5 SP's accumulating stats for you at any one time. If you want to remove one of your starters from the rotation, he has to be either traded or dropped, and he has to make 3 starts for you before you can do anything with him at all. He CANNOT just be moved to the bench and replaced by a different pitcher. This rule makes starting pitching very important, as a bad pitcher can really set you back.

I did very well in this league from '05 to '08, coming in 4th, 1st, 3rd, and 1st respectively, and then last year had pretty much everything go wrong that possibly could, and came in dead last. My keepers are Arod, Crawford, Granderson, Bruce, Pedroia, Felix, and Jubaldo JImenez. I had no 2nd round pick and an additional 8th round pick as a result of various trades. On to the results:

1 - Wandy Rodriguez

2 - No pick

3 - Broxton

4 - Pena

5 - A. Soriano

6 - Edwin Jackson

7 - Webb

8 - R. Soriano

8 - Kazmir

9 - S. Drew

10 - Heyward

11 - G. Jones

12 - Soto

13 - Maybin

14 - J. Rivera

15 - Wagner

16 - Hughes

17 - Dye

All in all, I think I did well. My one worry is that I don't have any bench players that aren't OF'ers. Towards the end of the draft there just wasn't much available and there was still value in the outfield. I'll have to explore trading some of these OF'ers once the injury bug starts hitting people.

Poll

WIll I get a good starter out of either Kazmir or Webb?

Zach Abrams 2B Rankings

2010-03-15T16:22:10Z

The following Rankings are based on 5x5 Rotisserie scoring.

1- Chase Utley

4- Ian Kinsler

9- Jose Lopez

10- Richie Weeks

11- Ben Zobrist

12- Aaron Hill

13- Dan Uggla

14- Ian Stewart

15- Kelly Johnson

16- Scott Sizemore

17- Orlando Hudson

18- Asdrubal Cabrera

19- Martin Prado

20- Placido Polanco

Aaron Hill: Many will feel being ranked 12 is very unjust after hitting .286 36 hrs 108 rbi. If you look into Hill's fundamental statistics, you will see that his 2009 campaign is very similar to his 2007 breakout year. His fb rate, hr/f and contact rate were almost identicle, while his power spike was due to his unusually high hr/f (16%). Expect Hill to contribute right around 20 home runs, but thus putting him back outside my top 10.

Ben Zobrist: Another player I feel had his best case scenerio season fall into line in 2009. I have projected him to have a solid season, but the reasoning for his is more of a gut call then anything else.

Jose Lopez: If you have read any of my columns before, you know how high I am on Lopez. Lopez is going unnoticed in many drafts despite hitting 25 hrs and 96 rbi out of the 2B position. His .272 average was low, but chalk some of that up to luck (27% hit percentage). Remeber, just a year ago with a normal hit rate he batted .297. I believe Lopez can produce as a top 3 second baseman if everything falls into place for him this season. This 26 year old also has the addition of Chone Figgins working for him..

Poll

Will Aaron Hill hit over 25 Home Runs this season?

Fantasy Baseball: ILLZ's First Draft

2010-03-15T13:00:26Z

More photos » Paul Connors - AP

I need Dan Haren to quality-start me into the playoffs.

Browse more photos »

I drafted my first of 3 leagues yesterday afternoon. This is my least favorite league because it's head to head, which I hate, and I don't know most of the guys that are in it. The buy-in is sizeable enough for me to care, however, so it makes up for everything else. This year I decided to go pitching and steals. It's a 12 team 6x5 league (standard 5x5 plus QS) with 4 keepers. I made the strategy decision at the end of last year and dumped Pujols, Granderson, Bay, etc. and ended up with Haren, Felix, Lester, and Ellsbury as keepers. Not a bad start if you ask me! On to the results:

1. Broxton

2. Jimenez

3. Papelbon

4. Billingsley

5. R. Soriano

6. Pierre

7. E. Cabrera

8. Garza

9. Fowler

10. Harden

11. Jenks

12. Podsednik

13. Castillo

14. Webb

15. Capps

16. Y. Molina

17. Kennedy

18. Loney

19. Crisp

20. Taveras

21. Gomez

Considering the pitching-heavy categories I don't really see any weakness barring injury problems. I should get 140 SB from my OF alone, as well as taking my share of weeks in BA and R. Pitching should be a gimme as well. If I can win every week 7-4 I'll make the playoffs and be impossible to beat, right?

Poll

What place will I finish in this league?

Fantasy Baseball: Sunday's Spring Training Roundup

2010-03-15T11:30:20Z

Eric Gay - AP

10 days ago: Detroit Tigers' Austin Jackson steals third base ast Toronto Blue Jays' Jose Bautista is late with the tag during the second inning of a spring training baseball game, Sunday, March 7, 2010, in Dunedin, Fla. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

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Here are some thoughts after reviewing Sunday's spring training boxscores:

Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia gave up 3 runs on 3 hits and 2 walks in 4.1 innings on Sunday vs the Pirates. He gave up a HR and strcuk out two. Sabathia is usually a very slow starter, so unless this continues into May, I wouldn't be concerned.

Pirates SS Bobby Crosby went 3-3 and hit 2 HRs raising his spring BA to .381. With Ronny Cedeno getting hurt on Sunday, Crosby may be one to watch as drafts approach.

Diamondbacks outfielder Justin Upton went 3-4 with a HR, 3 runs scored and 3 RBI. Upton is a top 10 selection in NL-only leagues, and a second round selection in mixed leagues. I have him going 30-20 in 2010, and he could easily beat the power number.

Diamondbacks catcher Miguel Montero had a breakout 2010 season, but is only .176 in spring training. Am I the only one to think he will underperform his draft value in 2010. He's a catcher. Remember the Chris Iannetta hype in 2009?

Mets pitcher Johan Santana threw 4 shutout innings giving up 3 hits and striking out 4 on Sunday. Fantasy owners, and Mets fans, can breathe a sigh of relief after this outing. He was recently drafted at $22 in the NL LABR draft and could prove to be a bargain at that price.

On the other hand, Mets starter John Maine got hit around, giving up 5 runs on 3 hits and 3 walks after Santana left for the day. After Santana, the Mets starting pitching is really suspect, and should only be drafted in the very late rounds of drafts, if that.

After homering on Saturday, Dodgers second baseman Blake Dewitt has 2 more hits on Sunday, and appears to have solidified his hold on the second base job in LA. Especially after learning the Ronnie Belliard still has not made his contract weight of 209.

For those of you in keeper or dynasty leagues, Dodgers pitcher Chris Withrow struck out the side in the 8th. Should he perform well in AA, he could be in the Dodgers rotation sometime in 2011 witjh Hiroki Kuroda in the last year of his 3-year deal in LA.

Jake Fox was behind the plate again on Sunday and responded with a 3-run HR off of Royals reliever Matt Herges. Should Fox gain catcher eligibility in 2010, he could be a nice free agent pickup at some point.

Padres outfielder Kyle Blanks had 2 more hits on Sunday raising his spring BA to .429. He is a later round pick with the potential to hit 25+ HRs in 2010, even in Petco Park.

Cardinal outfielder Colby Rasmus walked 4 times on Sunday and stole a base. Rasmus is another later round pick in mixed leagues who could provide fantasy owners with a 20-10 season.

Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg threw another 3 shutout innings, giving up 2 hits, a walk and K'ing 2. He was recently drafted at $9 in the NL LABR experts league, and should outperform that auction value in 2010.

Tigers outfielder Austin Jackson is making Tigers GM Dave Dombrowski smile after going 3-4 with 2 triples to raise his spring BA to .429. Could he outperform Curtis Granderson in 2010?

Poll

Can Austin Jackson outperform Curtis Granderson in 2010?

Fantasy Baseball: Jason's 2B Rankings

2010-03-14T22:00:27Z

Gene J. Puskar - AP

10 months ago: Cincinnati Reds' Brandon Phillips drives in his second run of the game with a sacrifice fly off Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Tyler Yates in ninth inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh Friday, May 1, 2009. The Reds won 4-0. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

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Continuing on with our positional rankings, here's my 2B rankings:

Some thoughts:

Overall, the position doesn't really appear to be that deep to me. The drop off in quality really seems to start after Cano.At that point you're now either looking at players that are flawed in some way (batting average), injury prone (Weeks), or rookies (Sizemore).

If I were drafting today, Brian Roberts is not going to end up on any of my teams. There's just so much risk there right now due to the back injury he's been suffering from.

Beckham doesn't qualify as a 2B coming into the season, but will very shortly after the start of the season. Just another good player with excellent positional flexibility. You've got Cabrera (SS), Stewart (3B), Prado (1B, 3B), and Izturis (SS), along with Polanco who will qualify at 3B shortly also. And I can't forget Zobrist (SS, OF).

Zobrist I think will be able to repeat his 2009 season, and that positional flexibility is what puts him ahead for me.

I think that Scott Sizemore has the potential to have a 15-15 season with a .280 average. Not an amazing performance for a fantasy starter, but in leagues where you're required to start a MI as well as 2B and SS, he could be a nice pickup.

Brandon Phillips always seems to be the forgotten 2B. He did post another 20-20 season last year, and still has the potential to post a 30-30 as well.

Past these guys, there's really a lot of playing time deprived options. Felipe Lopez is probably the best one available of that group. There are also not a lot of minor leaguers at the top levels who could be coming either. Probably the best prospect playing 2B right now is Dustin Ackley of the Mariners, but he seems like he's at least 2 seasons away right now.

Poll

Can Brandon Phillips post a 30-30 season in 2010?

Fantasy Baseball: Ray's Second Base Rankings for 2010

2010-03-14T18:30:21Z

Nati Harnik - AP

14 days ago: Boston Red Sox's Dustin Pedroia follows through with a single against Boston College in the first inning of a baseball spring training game in Fort Myers, Fla., Wednesday, March 3, 2010.(AP Photo/Nati Harnik)

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Today we move on to the Top 20 second baseman for 2010 fantasy drafts. Chase Utley continues to dominate the second base position for fantasy owners, but someday that will come to an end. One guy who could make a statement in 2010 is the White Sox second baseman Gordon Beckham. He did not play second base in 2009, but he will be the White Sox starter at second in 2010. If I had ranked him as a second baseman, I would have ranked him third behind Utley and the Rangers Ian Kinsler.

Here are the Top 20 second baseman for 2010, with their 2009 stats:

Name	AB	HR	R	RBI	BB	SO	SB	AVG
Chase Utley	571	31	112	93	88	110	23	0.282
Ian Kinsler	566	31	101	86	59	77	31	0.253
Dustin Pedroia	626	15	115	72	74	45	20	0.296
Ben Zobrist	501	27	91	91	91	104	17	0.297
Brandon Phillips	584	20	78	98	44	75	25	0.276
Robinson Cano	637	25	103	85	30	63	5	0.320
Brian Roberts	632	16	110	79	74	112	30	0.283
Dan Uggla	564	31	84	90	92	150	2	0.243
Aaron Hill	682	36	103	108	42	98	6	0.286
Jose Lopez	613	25	69	96	24	69	3	0.272
Rickie Weeks	147	9	28	24	12	39	2	0.272
Scott Sizemore
Martin Prado	450	11	64	49	36	59	1	0.307
Alberto Callaspo	576	11	79	73	52	51	2	0.300
Felipe Lopez	604	9	88	57	71	100	6	0.310
Howie Kendrick	374	10	61	61	20	71	11	0.291
Orlando Hudson	551	9	74	62	62	99	8	0.283
Maicer Izturis	387	8	74	65	35	41	13	0.300
Kelly Johnson	303	8	47	29	32	54	7	0.224

Scott Sizemore is listed with no stats as he did not play in the majors in 2009, but he is expected to be the Tigers second baseman in 2010. He hit 17 HRs, drove in 66 runs, and stole 21 bases in AA and AAA last year.

I don't see Jose Lopez or Aaron Hill duplicating their 2009 performances in 2010. I can see Ian Kinsler improving his BA in 2010 and going 25-25 for fantasy owners.

I am curious if Ben Zobrist 2009 season was a one year wonder or if he can build upojn his breakout season. Another guy I am curious about is the Brewers second baseman Rickie Weeks. He is coming off yet another wrist injury, but should he prove healthy he could move up these rankings real fast as he has a solid power/speed profile.

Speaking of moving up this list, someone who is not on this list, the Rockies Eric Young, could be a top 10 second baseman in 2010 if he gets enough playing time as he has the potential to steal 50+ bases in a starting role.

Poll

Does Robinson Cano repeat his 2009 season in 2010?

MLB Trade Rumors: Padres Not Including Adrian Gonzalez in 2010 Promotion Campaign

2010-03-14T15:11:39Z

More photos » Charlie Neibergall - AP

18 days ago: San Diego Padres first baseman Adrian Gonzalez looks to field the ball during a baseball spring training workout, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2010, in Peoria, Ariz. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)

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I just saw this link from a few days ago, but it appears it is a virtual certaintly that the Padres will deal star first baseman Adrian Gonzalez this season. This from CBSSports.com's Scott Miller:

Take a look at the Padres' promotions planned for this summer and it is difficult to decipher anything other than nobody here figures Gonzalez will be around for the entire season.
Five bobblehead nights are planned for the summer featuring David Eckstein, Chase Headley, Kyle Blanks, Clayton Richard and Everth Cabrera ... but no Gonzalez.

One replica jersey night is planned featuring pitcher Chris Young ... but no Gonzalez.

The cover of the media guide features Petco Park ... but no Gonzalez.

"I know, there are no bobblehead dolls for me or Heath [Bell, the Padres' closer who also has been subject to numerous trade rumors]," Gonzalez says. "I really don't care. From a personal perspective, people always bring it up to me. I don't know ... they want to promote the younger guys, I guess. I get that."

I imagine mixed league owners will not change their ranking for Gonzalez going into 2010 drafts, but NL-only league owners will have to think about the possibility of Adrian Gonzalez being dealt to an AL team this season. How much does his draft day value drop?

In one of my NL-only keeper leagues, the owner is retaining him at $30. Is this a smart move?

I wish I knew what he went for in the NL LABR draft.

Poll

How much will you spend on AGonz in your NL-only auction draft in 2010?

Francisco Liriano on the possibility of closing for the Twins The Twins have yet to approach...

2010-03-14T14:54:39Z

Francisco Liriano on the possibility of closing for the Twins

The Twins have yet to approach Francisco Liriano to see if he would like a chance to replace Joe Nathan as the team's closer, but that conversation could happen soon as Nathan contemplates season-ending elbow surgery.

"I'm open to it, but I'd prefer to start," Liriano said Saturday morning.

Liriano is the leading candidate for the team's fifth starter spot, but some team insiders believe he could be a good closer. If the Twins went that route, they could use Brian Duensing or Glen Perkins in the No. 5 spot.

"I want to be a starter," Liriano said. "Being a closer, I've never had experience before, but I'd try it."

http://www.startribune.com/sports/twins/87599142.html?elr=KArksi8cyaiUqCP:iUiacyKU7DYaGEP7vDEh7P:DiUs

Fantasy Baseball: Saturday's Spring Training Roundup

2010-03-14T13:00:26Z

Jeff Roberson - AP

21 days ago: Florida Marlins starting pitcher Ricky Nolasco throws live batting practice during spring training baseball Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2010, in Jupiter, Fla. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

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There were lots of rainouts in Florida on Friday, but they were back at it on Saturday. Here are my thoughts after reviewing Saturday's boxscores:

The Ray's BJ Upton hit 2 HRs, both to the opposite field according to ESPN's Jayson Stark, and went 3-3 with 3 RBI. Could we see a 20-40 season from Upton this season? Could Justin go 40-20 in 2010?

The Marlin's Ricky Nolasco gave up one run on 4 hits in 4 innings while striking out 4. He's looking like the 2008 Nolasco so far.

The Cardinals closer Ryan Franklin pitched the 7th inning, giving up 2 runs on 2 hits, one a HR, and his spring ERA is now 10.38. Jason Motte pitched the 9th inning to earn the save. Motte could be a late round closer sleeper.

Astros catching prospect Jason Castro was 0-1 with 2 walks and a run scored and is hitting .462 so far. I could see him either winning the catcher spot out of spring training, or getting the call by June.

Matt Lindstro threw a scoreless 4th inning today striking out one. He appears to be the favorite to open the season as the Astros closer. National's pitching prospect Drew Storen threw a scoreless 4th inning as well, striking out two while giving up a hit and a walk. His main competition as Nat's closer Matt Capps pitched a scoreless 5th inning.

The Padres stole 6 bases in their game against the Athletics. Is this a sign they will be running more this year?

Indians pitcher Justin Masterson struck out 6 Rangers in 3 2/3rd innings on Saturday, lowering his spring ERA to 1.29.

Orioles catcher Matt Wieters went 0-2 with a walk and a run scored, but is only hitting .077 so far in spring training. To make matters worse, Nick Johnson stole a base off Wieters on Saturday as well.

Nick Punto and Brendan Harris went a combined 0-4 with 3 strikeouts vs the Phillies. The competition for the Twins third base jonb may go down to the wire as both are hitting .182 thus far.

Danys Baez pitched a scoreless 9th for the save vs the Twins giving up a hit and a walk while striking out two. Could he be the Phils closer till Brad Lidge returns? Phils starter JA Happ threw 4 scoreless innings, giving up a hit and striking out 3. Can he repeat his 2009 season? I don't think so.

Poll

FakeTeams

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Down On The Farm: Stephen Strasburg Hype Has Reached an Extreme

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Are you concerned with Jose Reyes Injury?

Fantasy Baseball: Tuesday's Spring Training Roundup

How high will Everth Cabrera be drafted in mixed leagues after seeing how often the Padres are stealing this spring?

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Who should I pick up in the waiver draft?

Fantasy Baseball: Ray's Shortstop Rankings for 2010

Who will have the better fantasy season in 2010-Tulo or Hanley?

Fantasy Baseball: Jason's Shortstop Rankings

Will Troy Tulowitzki steal 20 bases again this season?

ILLZ 2B rankings

Fantasy Baseball: Monday's Spring Training Roundup

Are the Mets a better team with Fernando Martinez in centerfield instead of Angel Pagan?

Fake Teams Mixed 5 x 5 Fantasy League on CBSSports.com

ILLZ's 2nd draft results

WIll I get a good starter out of either Kazmir or Webb?

Zach Abrams 2B Rankings

Will Aaron Hill hit over 25 Home Runs this season?

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What place will I finish in this league?

Fantasy Baseball: Sunday's Spring Training Roundup

Can Austin Jackson outperform Curtis Granderson in 2010?

Fantasy Baseball: Jason's 2B Rankings

Can Brandon Phillips post a 30-30 season in 2010?

Fantasy Baseball: Ray's Second Base Rankings for 2010

Does Robinson Cano repeat his 2009 season in 2010?

MLB Trade Rumors: Padres Not Including Adrian Gonzalez in 2010 Promotion Campaign

How much will you spend on AGonz in your NL-only auction draft in 2010?

Francisco Liriano on the possibility of closing for the Twins The Twins have yet to approach...

Fantasy Baseball: Saturday's Spring Training Roundup

Can Phillies starter JA Happ repeat his 2009 season in 2010?