A fantasy baseball season is not won by the picks you make in the first few rounds, but it is the late round steals that help to build a strong team. Every position has players who will be available later in the draft that are primed for big seasons. Here is a look at players who can catapult your team to a championship.
C-Mike Zunino
Although he is entering just his first full season of pro ball, Mike Zunino should bring plenty of value. The 23 year old former Florida Gator superstar, should be in position to drive in runs In the ever-improving Mariner lineup and should has decent power value from a weaker position as well.
1B-Matt Adams
If there is one thing that Matt Adams can do well it is hit. When he connects the ball goes a long way, launching 17 homeruns last season in limited action. With his power bat he has potential to hit 40 homeruns in the middle of the powerful Cardinal lineup. Although first base is a loaded position, those who draft Adams should expect big things.
2B-Kolten Wong
Just like Matt Carpenter showed last year, Cardinals prospects can hit. While Kolten Wong does not have a lot of speed, he his hit at every level since being drafted. Being in the potent Cardinals lineup, Wong should bring value in average, total bases, and runs this season.
3B-Kris Bryant
Kris Bryant will not start the year in the big leagues this season, but keep an eye on him. After being drafted as the best college bat last season, Bryant excelled in his first full minor league season. He then continued his dominance into the Arizona Fall League. This spring he has still shown impressive power. With limited talent at the big league level, it is only a matter of time until Bryant is up with the Cubs. Expect him to be a top fantasy player at the position very soon.
SS-Brad Miller
Last season, Brad Miller’s steady bat helped him earn everyday playing time. While he is in a battle for the starting spot this spring, he has an advantage because of his shortstop experience. With more power added to the Mariners lineup this off-season, Miller should be able to produce in all categories this season.
OF-Khris Davis
Milwaukee showed their confidence in Khris Davis by trading Nori Aoki this off-season. In Davis, the Brewers have another longball threat at Miller Park this season. He was one of the game’s best sluggers after all-star break last season and he see a big boost from his 11 homeruns last season. With improving plate discipline, he should be able to contribute in many other categories, too.
SP-Yordando Ventura
When Yordando Ventura steps on the mound he looks like a young version of Pedro Martinez. His stuff is nasty. Although he is pitching in the back end of the Royals rotation, he should bring high value strikeouts and 10-15 win potential. He has a great shot to be this season’s Jose Fernandez. After racking up innings last season, he should be available to make just about every start this season.
Stats Provided by Baseball Reference
