Preseason Prep - March 19th

Rising Stars:

Mookie Betts (BOS-CF) - Let's start things off with one of the hottest batters in spring training, Mookie Betts. In 29 at bats Betts already has 13 hits, seven of which have gone for extra bases. If the newly bolstered Red Sox lineup produces around him, Betts will have a breakout season. Betts earned the role as Boston's lead off hitter by hitting .291 in his first major league season. On his way to the majors, Betts demolished minor pitching hitting .341, .355, and .335 at Single-A, Double-A, and Triple-A respectively. For many rookies the numbers don't translate well to the big leagues, but this wasn't the case for Betts. At only 21 years old he posted a .368 OBP, 9.9% BB rate, .327 BABIP, and 84% contact rate in 213 at bats. To further his credibility Betts had a .444 SLG and .153 ISO. These numbers are startling considering that Betts is only 5-9 and 155 lbs. Although Betts is a good hitter his greatest asset might be his speed. Over the past two seasons he has accumulated 78 stolen bases, 40 of which came in 2014. The sky is the limit for Betts. He's the next big thing in Boston and he'll make you a proud fantasy owner if you decide to pick him.

Kris Bryant (CHC-3B) - Last Thursday Will Ferrell made baseball history when he played all 10 positions in one day. While patrolling center field for Mike Trout, Ferrell got a taste of big league talent when Kris Bryant hit a mammoth home run over his head. Bryant's power surge in spring training has been hard to miss. In 23 at bats Bryant already has six home runs and nine RBIs. This includes two multi home run games, one of which came after Bryant entered as a sub. In my opinion, Bryant's most impressive feat so far was his home run in last Tuesday's game. His massive 400 foot opposite field home run displayed power that very few guys in the MLB have. Bryant's smooth swing is so effortless that it's hard to believe how far he consistently hits the ball. I could go on and on about Bryant's stats all day. However rather than focus on the statistics in this particular case, I challenge you to watch Bryant's highlights from this past week. If you aren't impressed by his gorgeous swing and the way the ball jumps off his bat, then you aren't watching closely enough. As of now Bryant isn't a lock for the opening day roster, but until further notice he's a must have in fantasy leagues.

Billy Burns (OAK-CF) - Billy Burns is taking Oakland Athletics spring training by storm. In 39 at bats he has 15 hits, which corresponds to a .385 AVG. Along with those 15 hits Burns has 11 runs scored and three stolen bases. I think it's pretty safe to say that Burns will be on the opening day roster. Burns has big league speed as displayed by his 57 stolen bases in 132 games last season. His potential to hit for a high average is also notable. Despite his struggles in 2014, Burns has a track record of hitting over .300. In 2012 he hit .322 at Single-A, which he followed up in 2013 by hitting .315 between A+ and Double-A. My guess would be that Burns begins the season hitting eighth or ninth. As the season progresses he should work his way toward the one or two spot. Regardless, Burns is going to steal bases and score runs so get him off waivers before it's too late.

Jorge Soler (CHC-RF) - The list of talented young Cubs prospects continues with Jorge Soler. In 89 at bats for the Cubs, Soler had 26 hits, 14 of which were for extra bases. Soler's .573 SLG, .903 OPS, .281 ISO, .350 BABIP and 17.8 AB/HR were off the charts. The thing I love most about Soler is that he is an RBI machine. In 24 games for the miserable Cub offense, Soler recorded 20 RBIs. If the top of the Cubs lineup can produce any better than it did in 2014, then Soler should have a good chance to reach 100 RBIs. Additionally, he could easily contribute 25 home runs. Between 62 games last season at Double-A, Triple-A, and the majors, Soler hit 15 home runs. In spring training he already has two home runs and 10 hits in 25 at bats. Expect big production from Soler this season. He's an absolute wrecking ball at the plate and he'll demolish your opponents on a weekly basis.

Sure Things:

Josh Donaldson (TOR-3B) - As a member of the Blue Jays, Josh Donaldson's fantasy value is higher than ever. Donaldson will now play his home games in a hitter's ballpark where home runs come in bunches. For a hitter with a .201 ISO this is very important. Some might be concerned due to Donaldson's huge dip in batting average over the past year (.301 to .255). Part of this was due to a 2.2% rise in strikeout rate. The cause of Donaldson's increased K% might have been swinging for the fences more often. His career best 21.0 AB/HR in 2014 supports this notion. Honestly, a .255 AVG doesn't justify being nervous to draft a guy who hit 29 home runs and 98 RBIs for Oakland. This is one pick that's a no brainer. Josh Donaldson in a loaded Blue Jays lineup is a recipe for success.

Brian Dozier (MIN-2B) - Brian Dozier's 11 for 21 start in spring training is making it easy to see why he's one of the most valuable second basemen in fantasy baseball. On paper, Dozier almost covers the spread. His 112 runs scored from 2014 ranked second overall in the MLB. His 57 extra base hits tied him with Jose Altuve for 13th best in the MLB. Of those 57 extra base hits, 23 were home runs. This total tied Dozier with Neil Walker for the most home runs by a second basemen. Dozier's 23 home runs were complimented by 71 RBIs and 21 stolen bases. As a 20-20 player with a high potential to score runs and drive in RBIs Dozier has little downside. The only thing that a fantasy owner could really dislike about him was his .242 AVG. Despite this unimpressive average, Dozier had no problem getting on base. In 598 at bats last season he walked 89 times. This was 6th best in the MLB. Contemplate taking him in your draft once Cano and Altuve have been picked, because the next best second baseman isn't nearly as productive.

Paul Goldschmidt (ARI-1B) - Paul Goldschmidt is one of the most consistent and dangerous hitters in baseball. In four major league seasons he has a career .296 AVG, .385 OBP, .525 SLG, and .910 OPS. One thing about Goldschmidt that stands out is his ability to drive the ball to all fields. Of his 19 home runs in an injury shortened 2014, seven of those were to the opposite field. Not many guys hit seven opposite field home runs in a season much less in 109 games. Goldschmidt's knack for hitting left handed pitching also stands out. Excluding his rookie year, Goldschmidt has accumulated a .338 AVG with 24 home runs against lefties in 394 at bats. All this guy does is hit. His BABIP from the past three seasons is .372, .347, and .349. I love him, Arizona loves him, and most importantly our projections love him. Goldschmidt should be a top pick in every league. He is an investment in you future and will carry your team in RBIs, runs scored, AVG, and home runs.

Matt Harvey (NYM-SP) - Despite missing the 2014 season Matt Harvey still looks like an elite pitcher. Harvey performed like an ace on Monday when he put up a 4 IP 3 H 0 ER 3 K stat line against the Red Sox. Despite having a 200-inning limit Harvey shouldn't be inhibited very much, but if your fantasy team makes the playoffs it could be a problem. For now Harvey's career 2.39 ERA should ease your nerves. In 2013 his first full season, Harvey posted a 1.56 BB/9 and a 6.16 K/BB. His 95.8 MPH average fastball, 2.01 FIP, and 0.4 HR/9 lead all starting pitchers. With all of these accomplishments it's hard to believe that Harvey only had nine wins. Much of this was due to the fact he had the 17th worst run support. In all actuality, Harvey's 5.2 WAR suggests that he should've won closer to 14 games. Moving forward in 2015 Harvey shouldn't have any problem topping nine wins. His ERA and WHIP are likely to remain low, while his strikeout total should be more than sufficient. If you are willing to take the risk of not having him during the fantasy playoffs, then Harvey will reward you nicely.

Drew Storen (WAS-RP) - With Rafael Soriano and Tyler Clippard gone I think it's same to assume that Drew Storen will be the Nationals new closer. Storen solidified the role last September when he saved all 10 of his save opportunities for the month. Coming off a career best 1.76 BB/9, 90.6% strand rate, and 1.12 ERA Storen will have big shoes to fill. Storen might not be able to maintain a 1.12 ERA, but he should be successful as long as he limits his walks. Storen's 1.76 BB/9 was definitely the key to his success in 2014. In Storen's perfect September he issued no walks in 12.3 innings. Clearly he isn't unhittable as displayed by his career .291 BABIP, but as long continues throwing strikes he should be an effective closer.

Bring Out The Caution Tape:

Anthony Gose (DET-CF) - I really think Detroit acquired Anthony Gose to be the starting center fielder despite having Rajai Davis. Even though Gose and Davis are similar players, Gose has a brighter future due to his age. As a minor leaguer he consistently stole over 40 bases a year while hitting between .250 and .260. With the proper development Gose could make a great top of the lineup hitter. However he needs to work on putting the ball in play. In 2014 Gose only hit .226 with most of his success coming off of right handed pitching. What makes this so frustrating is that Gose's .319 BABIP and 9.1% BB rate are pretty solid. His 69% contact rate and 27% K rate are what's dragging him down. As a deep sleeper I really like Gose, because Detroit's lineup is built for success. For now take caution to Gose because of his past, but don't be shocked if he makes the opening day lineup. Currently he is 13 for 31 in spring training. Maybe this is a sign that he's starting to put things together, but it's tough to be sure. If you select him there's no downside to having him on your bench. He won't cost you a valuable pick and his ceiling is high enough to justify the decision.

Drew Hutchison (TOR-SP) - Sometimes numbers are deceiving like Drew Hutchison's 1.80 ERA in spring training. Hutchison has danger written all over him. This isn't to say that Hutchison is a bad pitcher or that he will never be a star, but he needs more time to develop before fantasy owners start jumping on him. In his first full major league season Hutchison got pounded for 23 home runs. These home runs heavily influenced his 4.48 ERA, which was further exacerbated by hitters .308 BABIP against him. To succeed as a starting pitcher in Rogers Center you have to keep the ball on the ground. Hutchison had a hard time doing this as conveyed by his 0.89 GB/FB ratio. For now I would hold up on drafting him. Although his 92 mph two seam and 8.97 K/9 are impressive, he isn't much of an asset to your fantasy team unless he can keep the ball on the ground.

Mike Olt (CHC-3B) - Mike Olt is one of the highest upside players in the Chicago Cubs minor league system. His ability to hit for power to all fields is something any team could make use of. Olt's .196 ISO and 9.7% BB rate from 2014 highlight his best attributes. However, Olt has no chance of remaining in the major if he continues to swing and miss like he did last season. Olt's .160 AVG, 56% contact rate, .212 BABIP and 38.8% K rate were atrocious. Major league pitchers clearly had no trouble figuring this guy out. After being optioned to Triple-A Olt showed immediate signs of improvement. In 106 at bats he put together a tidy .304 AVG. This production has carried over into spring training where Olt is six for 23 with two home runs and five RBIs. If Olt can keep it together through the month, he has a good shot to be the Cubs opening day third baseman. Otherwise Kris Bryant will probably get his first chance to play in the bigs.

Chien-Ming Wang (ATL-SP) - Is Chien-Ming Wang making a comeback? Before getting shelled on Saturday (0.1IP 4H 3ER 2BB) Wang was yet to allow a run in five innings. For a guy who hasn't pitched in the majors in over a year, it's unlikely that Wang has found his niche. When last recorded in 2013, Wang's average fastball velocity was only 89.9 MPH. In three of his past four seasons, Wang's ERA was greater than six. This was partially due to a disappointing strand percentage, which was below 70% in each of those seasons. If Wang is going to have any chance at redemption, he must keep his BB/9 down to compensate for his high BABIP. While I definitely wouldn't draft Wang this year, I might keep an eye on him as an extremely deep sleeper. The Braves starting rotation has two spots open and if Wang can somehow put things together he could end up being a nice waiver wire pickup.

Waiver Wire Steals:

Kyle Hendricks (CHC-SP) - After pitching five perfect innings against the Athletics on Saturday I must advise you to keep a close eye on Kyle Hendricks. Due to the Cubs dismal 2014 season, many fantasy owners missed out on Hendricks. In his first 13 major league starts, Hendricks never allowed more than four runs in any game. His 2.46 ERA in 80.3 innings pitched was no coincidence. Hendricks is an extremely efficient pitcher whose 14.4 P/IP and 1.68 BB/9 helped keep his ERA down. Additionally Hendricks contributed a 7-2 record in a season where the Cubs only won 73 games. Despite his comforting stats, Hendricks is not a must have player until the final rounds of the draft. His ERA is unlikely to remain below three, and he probably won't win more than 13 games on a shaky Cubs team. Regardless, if you need a pitcher to lower your WHIP and accumulate innings for you, Hendricks is a worthy choice.

Drew Pomeranz (OAK-SP) - Drew Pomeranz is one of my favorite hidden gems in all of baseball. As a member of the Rockies between 2011 and 2013 Pomeranz got pummeled. His lowest ERA in a season was 4.93 and his BABIP was above .300 every year. It wasn't Pomeranz's fault. He pitched in Colorado where no pitcher is ever at his best. Going to the Athletics is exactly what Pomeranz needed to kick start his career. In 69 innings pitched for Oakland Pomeranz had a 2.35 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, and an 84.3% strand rate. The biggest improvement in Pomeranz's game was his dip in BABIP. In 2013 Pomeranz had a hitter friendly .333 BABIP, which dropped to .252 in 2014. Pitching in Oakland really did do the trick. Off to hot start in March, Pomeranz already has 15 strikeouts in nine innings. Over those nine innings he has allowed only two earned runs. As the projected fifth starter, Pomeranz has a low fantasy value. He might not evenget taken in many leagues. Take Pomeranz deep in the draft or off of waivers and he'll make it worth your pick.

Bonus Player:

Will Ferrell (ARI, CHC, CHW, CIN, LAA, LAD, OAK, SEA, SD, SF - C, 1B, 2B, SS, 3B, LF, CF, RF, RP) - Will Ferrell may have become the most versatile player in baseball history after playing all 10 positions (including DH) last Thursday. Regardless, don't even consider picking him for your fantasy team. In his only two at bats he struck out twice and didn't even come close to putting the ball in play. His 0.00 ERA may look flawless, but in reality is highly deceptive based on his 55 MPH fastball. Don't count on his defense either. Ferrell may have a perfect fielding percentage, but his lack of speed and weak throwing arm make him a liability in the field. I would only consider drafting him if you are completely desperate, or if want to tell your friends that Buddy the Elf plays for your fantasy team.

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Time Frame: Preseason