These weekly posts of mine have been based on a rotisserie format using a traditional 5×5 scoring system to keep things simple.

Personally I prefer more statistics in my leagues (which is why I was the commissioner in one of my leagues), but in order to reach the most readers we will just stick with the basic. But, feel free to either e-mail me or leave a comment in this post if you have specific questions. If I don’t reply to the comment, then ping me in an e-mail, too!

We will go around the horn in this series after skipping the pitcher’s position.

And remember, just because a player had a good fantasy season in 2009, it doesn’t mean he will have another one in 2010 and beyond. Sometimes you need to look into the player’s past and see if he is showing signs of decline over a few years.

Please Note: The 5×5 stats listed below are as follows in this order Runs/HR/RBI/SB/Ave and the number in parenthesis is the player’s age

10 — Travis Hafner (32) Indians

46/16/49/0/.272

Pronks had another disappointing season after returning this past year from injuries the year before, but because this is an AL only list he still makes it. The only silver lining on this line is his batting average. If he can regain his power stroke he may hold some value in 2010.

9 — Julio Borbon (23) Rangers: Rookie

30/4/20/19/.312

I’m surprised Borbon had enough playing time to make this list, but then again, DH is a weak position and 2009 was weaker than most seasons in the AL.

8 — Jim Thome (38) White Sox/Dodgers

55/23/77/0/.242

His power numbers are diminishing, but that could be in part due to his late season trade to LA where he became a pinch hitter and a playoff weapon. He’s also the oldest player on this list!

7 — Luke Scott (31) Orioles; also qualifies in LF

61/25/77/0/.258

On a better team his numbers would be better and his versatility was useful, I would think, in head to head leagues. The emergence of the youth movement hampered his playing time due to the off season signing of Ty Wigington before the 2009 season. He should have better numbers in 2010 now that Huff is no longer with the club. Scott may also be moved to 1B, but that’s just my guess.

6 — Vladimir Guerrero (34) Angels

59/15/50/2/.295

Vlad is an old 34 as his numbers and time on the DL in recent years reflect. Moving to the hitter friendly confines in Texas might help if he can stay healthy in 2010.

5 — Jack Cust (30) A’s; also qualifies in RF

88/25/70/4/.240

Young reliable is a good description of A’s RF/DH Jack Cust who has recently joined the “A Glove of Their Own” movement (follow link for more details). If you can withstand his low average, he’s a guarantee 25+ HRs, but in the A’s lineup don’t expect many people to be on base during those long balls. Although, they might be lloking a bit better going into the 2010 season and he may reach 80 RBIs.

4 — David Ortiz (33) Red Sox

77/28/99/0/.238

After a horrible first two months of the season, Big Papi went on a tear that saw him, once again, as one of the best run producers from July on. I expect him to start hitting sooner in 2010, but still not right out of the gate…he almost never does that even in his best years. His line is decent, but not worthy of his 4th place finish if it were not for the off year at DH in 2009. He should hit 30 HR and 100 RBI in 2010 with an average above .250.

3 — Hideki Matsui (35) Yankees

62/28/90/0/.274

His average puts him above Ortiz, but the World Series MVP saw his last game as a Yankee in that series. He also is a man of consistency that is an old 35 that may no longer be able to play in the OF, yet still had the ability to hit 28 bombs, knocking in 90 runs in fewer games due to injuries. If healthy, he may hit 30 HR and 100 RBI for the Angels in 2010.

2 — Jason Kubel (27) Twins; also qualifies in LF/RF

73/28/103/1/.300

Jason Kubel is the first player on this list to drive in over 100 RBI and he did so while hitting .300 with 28 bombs. Hence his positioning at the number 2 slot on this list. As an added bonus, he also qualifies at both Left and Right Field, but if your league setting only have OF’s without breaking it down by OF position, then that’s less of a factor heading into 2010.

1 — Adam Lind (25) Blue Jays; also qualifies in LF

93/35/114/1/.305

As the only man on this list with over 30 bombs and over 100 RBI who just so happens to hit over .300 and score over 90 times he just blows away the competition at DH for most any year at this position. AND, he’s only 25!

Honorable Mentions:

Randy Ruiz (31) Blue Jays: Rookie

25/10/17/1/.313

Mike Jacobs (28) Royals

46/19/61/0/.228



My name is Peter Schiller. I am the creator/owner of Baseball Reflections.com. I’m also a contributing writer. To read more of my work at Baseball Reflections just click HERE!

I am also affiliated with a great cause, a children’s book with a great message called, “A Glove of Their Own”. Everyone who purchases a copy of this great book using the promotional code PIF 129, a $3.00 donation will be made when purchased through the Franklin Mason Press website for Pitch In For Baseball at checkout. You can purchase a copy by following the link at their website http://www.agloveoftheirown.com

These weekly posts of mine have been based on a rotisserie format using a traditional 5×5 scoring system to keep things simple.

Personally I prefer more statistics in my leagues (which is why I was the commissioner in one of my leagues), but in order to reach the most readers we will just stick with the basic. But, feel free to either e-mail me or leave a comment in this post if you have specific questions. If I don’t reply to the comment, then ping me in an e-mail, too!

We will go around the horn in this series after skipping the pitcher’s position.

And remember, just because a player had a good fantasy season in 2009, it doesn’t mean he will have another one in 2010 and beyond. Sometimes you need to look into the player’s past and see if he is showing signs of decline over a few years.

Please Note: The 5×5 stats listed below are as follows in this order Runs/HR/RBI/SB/Ave and the number in parenthesis is the player’s age

10 — Orlando Cabrera (34) Angels/Twins

83/9/77/13/.285

Not a bad line for a 34 year old SS, but his inability to hit double digits in HRs or steal 20 bases prevents him from placing higher than 10th.

9 — Marco Scutaro (33) Blue Jays

100/12/60/14/.282

His 100 runs scored shows off his on base ability in 2009 and being with the Red Sox should keep those numbers from dropping much. That being said, he may be only an honorable mention next year.

8 — Jimmy Rollins (30) Phillies

100/21/77/31/.250

Hi average took a major hit in 2009 or he’d be higher on this list. He did not have the typical J-Roll sort of year, but 21 bombs and 31 stolen bases is very nice out of the SS position in any fantasy league not to mention his 100 runs scored and 77 RBI. Not sure he can continue stealing 30+ bases, but he should hit 20 or more HRs in 2010 with 100+ runs again in this line up.

7 — Asdrubal Cabrera (23) Indians; also qualifies at 2B

81/6/68/17/.308

Aside from him being 7th on this list, the fact that he qualifies at 2B would place him higher if this list wasn’t stat driven. His 17 stolen bases and above .300 average place him here on this list.

6 — Yunel Escobar (26) Braves

89/14/76/5/.299

If I remember correctly, injuries kept Escobar on the bench a little bit in 2009 or he might have had a line that looked more like this: 100/20/90/10/.305 which would have placed him in the top 5 on this list.

5 — Miguel Tejada (35) Astros

83/14/86/5/.313

He may not be able to hit 20 HR anymore, but his ability to hit over .300 with both runs and RBIs in the 80’s is still worthy at this position. All bets are off though if he moves to 3B unless he still qualifies at SS in your league in 2010.

4 — Jason Bartlett (29) Rays

90/14/66/30/.320

He had a career year in 2009, but I don’t think it will continue into 2010. I feel that his average will once again dip just below .300 and he may not steal 30 again or score 90 times in 2010. Either way, he was well deserving a # 4 ranking for 2009!

3 — Troy Tulowitzki (24) Rockies

101/32/92/20/.297

The only thing keeping Tulo from the 2nd spot was a future hall of famer who had another great year at age 35 in Jeter. This is the type of production you should come to expect from him moving forward in the mold of the great Cal Ripken, Jr. Heck, he might even hit 100 RBIs with an average slightly over .300 next year!

2 — Derek Jeter (35) Yankees

107/18/66/30/.334

The Yankees captain had another (arguably) MVP caliber season and with 30 stolen bases at his age is an added bonus. I’m not sure he’ll come close to 20 HRs again, but the rest of those numbers can definitely be repeated with a slightly lower average (about .310).

1 — Hanley Ramirez (25) Marlins

101/24/106/27/.342

The only surprise here is that he didn’t go 30/30, but then again, knowing he was moving to the number 3 slot in the batting order probably took away that chance, but 20/20, 100/100 while hitting over .340 is great for any positional player! I don’t see him getting knocked off his # 1 perch any time soon!

Honorable Mentions:

Maicer Izturis (28) Angels; also qualifies at 2B

74/8/65/13/.300

Erick Aybar (25) Angels

70/5/58/14/.312

My name is Peter Schiller. I am the creator/owner of Baseball Reflections.com. I’m also a contributing writer. To read more of my work at Baseball Reflections just click HERE!

I am also affiliated with a great cause, a children’s book with a great message called, “A Glove of Their Own”. Everyone who purchases a copy of this great book using the promotional code PIF 129, a $3.00 donation will be made when purchased through the Franklin Mason Press website for Pitch In For Baseball at checkout. You can purchase a copy by following the link at their website http://www.agloveoftheirown.com

These weekly posts of mine have been based on a rotisserie format using a traditional 5×5 scoring system to keep things simple. Personally I prefer more statistics in my leagues (which is why I was the commissioner in one of my leagues), but in order to reach the most readers we will just stick with the basic. But, feel free to either e-mail me or leave a comment in this post if you have specific questions. If I don’t reply to the comment, then ping me in an e-mail, too!

We will go around the horn in this series after skipping the pitcher’s position.

And remember, just because a player had a good fantasy season in 2009, it doesn’t mean he will have another one in 2010 and beyond. Sometimes you need to look into the player’s past and see if he is showing signs of decline over a few years.

Please Note: The 5×5 stats listed below are as follows in this order Runs/HR/RBI/SB/Ave and the number in parenthesis is the player’s age

10 — Jorge Cantu (27) Marlins; also qualifies at 1B

67/16/100/3/.289

Driving in 100 runs for the Marlins while hitting .289 just gets Cantu on this list, but nothing else stands out! His ability to play 1B is added value for this Marlin.

9 — Michael Young (32) Rangers

76/22/68/8/.322

Young makes this list purely on his 22 HRs and his .322 average as nothing else really excites.

8 — David Wright (26) Mets

88/10/72/27/.307

Although 2009 was looked upon as an off year for Wright as far as production, he still managed to swipe 27 bases and hit over .300 once again. 2010 should see his power numbers back around 20+ HRs and 100+ RBIs.

7 — Alex Rodriguez (33) Yankees

78/30/100/14/.286

Although A-Rod missed action at the beginning of the year due to his off season hip surgery, he still managed to crack the top 10 with his 30 HRs, 100 RBIs and .286 batting average.

6 — Chone Figgins (31) Angels

114/5/54/42/.298

Figgins gets on this list primarily due to his 42 stolen bases, his 114 runs scored and his close to .300 batting average.

5 — Mark Reynolds (25) Diamondbacks; also qualifies at 1B

98/44/102/24/.260

A career year for Reynolds with 44 HRs and 200 runs and RBI combined with his 20+ stolen bases offset his lower average. A big plus is his qualification at 1B like the next two guys on this list.

4 — Pablo Sandoval (22) Giants; also qualifies at 1B

79/25/90/5/.330

Kung Fu Panda breaks into the top 5 with his 25 HR and 90 RBI while hitting .330 on a poor hitting Giants team. With a better supporting cast behind him I’m sure his runs scored and RBI totals go up next year and he’ll probably make a run at the top three spots. He’s also the youngest player on this list.

3 — Kevin Youkilis (30) Red Sox; also qualifies at 1B

99/27/94/7/.306

I wonder if splitting his time between 1B and 3B affected his production which was off a little bit from the previous year. Although, that very skill set makes him that much more valuable to your Fantasy team. Still, a BA above .300 with close to 100 Runs & RBIs to go along with close to 30 HR will get you third place most years.

2 — Evan Longoria (23) Rays

100/33/113/9/.281

A lower BA than the winner is what puts Longoria in second place here. The Rays didn’t play up to their 2008 potential or this beast would have taken the top spot here!

1 — Ryan Zimmerman (24) Nationals

110/33/106/2/.292

This was a bit of a surprise to me, but Zimmerman has the best overall numbers from a traditional 5×5 scoring system. Scoring 110 times and knocking in 106 RBIs on this Nationals team is impressive. If defense was in the mix, I think Longoria would take this spot!

Honorable Mentions:

Casey Blake (35) Dodgers

84/18/79/3/.280

Scott Rolen (34)

76/11/67/5/.295



My name is Peter Schiller. I am the creator/owner of Baseball Reflections.com. I’m also a contributing writer. To read more of my work at Baseball Reflections just click HERE!

I am also affiliated with a great cause, a children’s book with a great message called, “A Glove of Their Own”. Everyone who purchases a copy of this great book using the promotional code PIF 129, a $3.00 donation will be made when purchased through the Franklin Mason Press website for Pitch In For Baseball at checkout. You can purchase a copy by following the link at their website http://www.agloveoftheirown.com

These weekly posts of mine will be based on a rotisserie format using a traditional 5×5 scoring system to keep things simple. Personally I prefer more statistics in my leagues (which is why I was the commissioner in one of my leagues), but in order to reach the most readers we will just stick with the basic. But, feel free to either e-mail me or leave a comment in this post if you have specific questions. If I don’t reply to the comment, then ping me in an e-mail, too!

We will go around the horn in this series after skipping the pitcher’s position.

And remember, just because a player had a good fantasy season in 2009, it doesn’t mean he will have another one in 2010 and beyond. Sometimes you need to look into the player’s past and see if he is showing signs of decline over a few years.

Please Note: The 5×5 stats listed below are as follows in this order Runs/HR/RBI/SB/Ave and the number in parenthesis is the player’s age

10 — Felipe Lopez (29) Diamondbacks/Brewers

88/9/57/6/.311

Lopez’s .311 average helps him to hit the top 10 while just edging out Callaspo of the Royals.

9 — Asdrubal Cabrera (23) Indians; also Qualifies at SS with over 20 games started

81/6/68/17/.308

His 17 steals and .308 average gets Cabrera on this list!The fact that he also qualifies at SS is a plus that gives the fantasy owner nice flexibility.

8 — Brandon Phillips (28) Reds

78/20/98/25/.276

Once again Phillips reaches the 20/20 mark, but it’s not enough when the guy just ahead of you reaches the 30/30 mark (even though that guy hit more than 20 points lower in BA). Phillips will always be in the top 10 while he can go 20/20 every year!

7 — Ian Kinsler (27) Ranger

101/31/86/31/.253

Kinsler’s low average keeps him from breaking the top 5 on my list, but the rest of his numbers are Fantasy worthy to say the least as he reached the 30/30 mark in 2009!

6 — Dustin Pedroia (25) Red Sox

115/15/72/20/.296

Pedroia had an off year as his average dipped below .300, but overall you should see these type of number every year from the diminutive one with the BIG mouth. I expect his average to be north of .300 in 2010 with maybe some more RBI with Scutaro hitting 9th.

5 — Brian Roberts (31) Orioles

110/16/79/30/.283

Roberts is the “old” man of this young list at 31 and he had a very typical year. He ranks 5th on this list mainly due to the weak offensive position and his ability to steal bases!

4 — Ben Zobrist (28) Rays; also Qualifies at RF with over 20 games started

91/27/91/17/.297

I’m actually surprised to see Cano higher on this list based upon how high Zobrist ranked in the MVP predictions I previously posted. This was a break though year for Zobrist and I am not sure you can expect him to hit close to 30 HR every year, but he may be consistently good for 20 each year with sufficient playing time.

His ability to qualify in RF is a big plus!

3 — Robinson Cano (26) Yankees

103/25/85/5/.320

These numbers don’t surprise me from Cano, but I still can’t believe he hits these marks with such slow starts every year. They say he’ll win a batting title one of these years, but I doubt that unless he starts a season without being ice cold. He doesn’t typically hit over .300 in a month until around July.

2 — Aaron Hill (27) Blue Jays

103/36/108/6/.286

Not even Utley reached the 100/30/100 mark last year! Where Utley tops Hill is his ability to steal bases and maintain consistency. I doubt we will see numbers like this from Hill again in 2010, but I’m sure he’ll reach most of these numbers, but I doubt he’ll reach 100 RBI again. All this coming off a concussion shortened 2008 season!

1 — Chase Utley (30) Phillies

112/31/93/23/.282

Utley showed no signs of his off season hip surgery in 2009 as his numbers are right on his norm. Need I say anything more about the man with the greasy hair? Probably not! His stats speak for themselves!

Honorable Mentions:

Alberto Callaspo (26) Royals

79/11/73/2/.300

Jose Lopez (25) Mariners

69/25/96/3/.272

These weekly posts of mine will be based on a rotisserie format using a traditional 5×5 scoring system to keep things simple. Personally I prefer more statistics in my leagues (which is why I was the commissioner in one of my leagues), but in order to reach the most readers we will just stick with the basic. But, feel free to either e-mail me or leave a comment in this post if you have specific questions. If I don’t reply to the comment, then ping me in an e-mail, too!

We will go around the horn in this series after skipping the pitcher’s position.

And remember, just because a player had a good fantasy season in 2009, it doesn’t mean he will have another one in 2010 and beyond. Sometimes you need to look into the player’s past and see if he is showing signs of decline over a few years.

Please Note: The 5×5 stats listed below are as follows in this order Runs/HR/RBI/SB/Ave

10 — Adrian Gonzalez (27) Padres

90/40/99/1/.277

With a better supporting cast where he wouldn’t get walked or pitched around SO much would have put Gonzalez much higher on this list and he may have even hit 50 bombs with over 120 RBI. If he gets traded this off season, his value should skyrocket closer to the top of the 1B list.

9 — Joey Votto (25) Reds

82/25/84/4/.322

Given how many games he was limited to due to that weird injury/illness of his makes this inclusion above Gonzo to be just short of amazing. Where do you think he would be without that time off?!

8 — Kevin Youkilis (30) Red Sox, also qualifies (20 game min.) at 3B

99/27/94/7/.306

The formerly nicknamed “Greek God of Walks” (Moneyball) can also be tagged as Mr. Reliable or Mr. Versatile. Reliable because you can always expect to get close to 100 runs and RBIs while hitting close to 30 bombs and all with an above .300 average. Versatile for his ability to play either 1B or 3B ata high level and in emergencies has been know to play in the OF, too just don’t expect him to qualify for the OF in any given year.

7 — Kendry Morales (26) Angels

86/34/108/3/.306

Morales is one of the only surprises to this list if you ask me although some might say that he always had the potential to have a year like this but who would have thought hat would happen so soon? Hitting over 30 HR and 100 RBI while maintaining an average above .300 is always impressive and most valuable.

6 — Derrek Lee (33) Cubs

91/35/111/1/.306

I hereby label Derrek Lee as the comeback player of the year! Who, outside of the biggest Derrek Lee or Cubs fans ever expected the 33 year old to reach such heights again? The question now is, can he do it for two years in a row? Later this offseason I will attempt to answer that question is the numbers allow.

5 — Mark Teixeira (29) Yankees

103/39/122/2/.292

For a player who was considered for the AL MVP award, a number 5 ranking is surprising especially looking at this lists # 4. Now with that being said, these numbers are nothing to sneeze at! One bomb away from 40 with over 100 runs scored and over 120 RBI while hitting close to .300 is impressive and only to be topped by the MLB elite.

4 — Miguel Cabrera (26) Tigers

96/34/103/6/.324

He’s the second youngest player on this list, probably has the most talent, but is probably the most likely to fall from grace (this type of production) before anyone else on this list due to his lack of maturity (his drinking and inability to stay in good shape). That being said, the numbers don’t lie and Cabrera is once again one of the best fantasy players at this position and in 2009 he also qualified for 3B in most leagues.

3 — Ryan Howard (29) Phillies

105/45/141/8/.279

Most of these numbers were expected except for the .279 batting average which fantasy owners of Mr. Howard will most definitely accept! He has been almost a lock for 40+ HR and over 120 RBI batting in this stacked Phillies offense and while he may not hit close to .280 again, the 40/120 are all but a given is he stays as healthy as he has in the past.

2 — Prince Fielder (25) Brewers

103/46/141/2/.299

After orchestrating one of the most unique HR celebrations in recent memory you will find that Prince has put up another strong all around year and almost hit .300 to boot! He may not hit 40+ HR or 140+ RBI every year but you can expect numbers close to those on a regular basis.

1 — Albert Pujols (29) Cardinals

124/47/135/16/.327

He’s the NL’s 2009 MVP for a second straight year, who else were you expecting to be in this slot? Need I say more? The numbers speak for themselves! The year he does NOT sit at the top of this will probably be due to injury given his unworldly consistency.

Honorable Mentions…

Todd Helton (35) Rockies

79/15/86/0/.325

Billy Butler (23) Royals

78/21/93/1/.301

My name is Peter Schiller. I am the creator/owner of Baseball Reflections.com. I’m also a contributing writer. To read more of my work at Baseball Reflections just click HERE!

I am also affiliated with a great cause, a children’s book with a great message called, “A Glove of Their Own”. Everyone who purchases a copy of this great book using the promotional code PIF 129, a $3.00 donation will be made when purchased through the Franklin Mason Press website for Pitch In For Baseball at checkout. You can purchase a copy by following the link at their website http://www.agloveoftheirown.com

This post is based on a rotisserie format using a traditional 5×5 scoring system to keep things simple. Personally I prefer more statistics in my leagues, but in order to reach the most readers we’ll just stick with the basics. But, feel free to either e-mail me or leave a comment in this post if you have specific questions. If I don’t reply to the comment, then ping me in an e-mail, too!

We will go around the horn in this series after skipping the pitcher’s position.

And remember, just because a player had a good fantasy season in 2009, it doesn’t mean he will have another one in 2010 and beyond. Sometimes you need to look into the player’s past and see if he is showing signs of decline over a few years.

Please Note: The 5×5 stats listed below are as follows in this order Runs/HR/RBI/SB/Ave

10 — Yadier Molina (26) Cardinals

Nothing on this line (45/6/54/9/.293) jumps out at me except for his 9 stolen bases (for a catcher) and his .293 batting average. What makes him a special catcher is his cannon of an arm and a dedication to the lost art of being a defensive catcher in all categories, but that won’t help his fantasy value. He’s still a valuable catcher these past few years with most catchers inability to hit for average anymore.

9 — Mike Napoli (27) Angels

The biggest attraction for Napoli owners was his 20 bombs while in a part time role and his ability to maintain a decent average (60/20/56/3/.272). I’d like to see what he can do with more playing time.

8 — Bengie Molina (34) Giants

Like Napoli at number 7, this Molina brother has value for his HR power as seen in this line (52/20/80/0/.265), but also for his run production on a weak Giants offensive team. He also holds a respectable batting average, too.

7 — A.J. Pierzynski (32) White Sox

A.J.’s value is an above average batting average as all of his other stats are just that…average, but with some pop (57/13/49/1/.300).

6 — Miguel Montero (25) Diamondbacks

Montero made good on his promise due to the unexpected playing time he earned with injuries to the normal D-Backs catcher, Snyder. At just his first year and at age 25 his line of 61/16/59/1/.294 is impressive as players usually grow into their power stroke and to hit .294 in his first look at the major league level is noteworthy to say the least. I expect him to be the number 1 catcher in 2010 and barring injury, should produce a similar numbers.

5 — Jorge Posada (37) Yankees

The old man of this list at 37 years old…wait a minute…that’s not that old! I’m 37. Anyway, where was I, oh yes, Posada had a line of 55/22/81/1/.285 which is why the Yankees will be transferring him to 1B or DH in the coming years where his 20+ HRs, 80+ RBI and average north of .280 will still be of value even to fantasy owners. So with that being said, draft him as a catcher while you still can!

4 — Kurt Suzuki (25) A’s

This was a surprise to me as was Montero although Suzuki has more MLB experience. His run and RBI totals are great for most catchers and his .274 average is nice, too. Again, at only 25, there is room to still grow into a 20+ HR hitter. Here’s his complete line 74/15/88/8/.274, let’s see if he can keep it up in years to come!

3 — Brian McCann (25) Braves

Starting with McCann, these next three were expected. A catcher like McCann with 20+ HR power who can knock in 90+ RBI is a catch for any fantasy owner, especially if that catcher consistently hits over .280. Here is his complete line…63/21/94/4/.281

2 — Victor Martinez (30) Indians/Red Sox and Qualifies at 1B

The only unimpressive stat in this line is his stolen base total and with a line that looks like this…88/23/108/1/.310 who cares?! On top of that, he also qualifies at 1B, but his true value remains a a catcher which is where he plays most of his games anyway. Playing a whole season in Boston over the next few years will make this catcher a much have in all leagues!

1 — Joe Mauer (26) Twins and Qualifies at DH

WOW! That just about sums up Mauer’s MVP 2009 season. 2009 saw him find his power stroke with 28 bombs and maintaining an amazing .365 batting average all while being one of the best defensive backstops in all of baseball. Read his line…94/28/96/4/.365 and weep all you who past up on him in this year’s draft. The big question now remains is if he can maintain this power in the years to come.

Honorable Mentions

Miguel Olivo (30) Royals

51/23/65/5/.249

John Baker (28) Marlins

59/9/50/0/.271



My name is Peter Schiller. I am the creator/owner of Baseball Reflections.com. I’m also a contributing writer. To read more of my work at Baseball Reflections just click HERE!

I am also affiliated with a great cause, a children’s book with a great message called, “A Glove of Their Own”. Everyone who purchases a copy of this great book using the promotional code PIF 129, a $3.00 donation will be made when purchased through the Franklin Mason Press website for Pitch In For Baseball at checkout. You can purchase a copy by following the link at their website http://www.agloveoftheirown.com

The final week of the fantasy baseball season is upon us. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve got a lot to gain (or lose) in the next seven days.

It’s important to note that all Yahoo leagues use ERA as it’s first tiebreaker. If you finish the week tied five-to-five, the championship goes to the team with the lowest ERA; there’s no split title.

With that in mind, here are a few favorable spot-start match ups this week. Scoop these guys up for a final spot-start and you’ll likely be rewarded with a low ERA and maybe even a win!

Brad Penny

Four of Penny’s five September starts saw him last at least seven innings and allow two runs or fewer. In 22 innings at AT&T Park this season, the 31-year-old has a 2.05 ERA and 0.86 WHIP. He’s scheduled to pitch there on Wednesday against the Diamondbacks, making him a good spot-start option.

Tim Hudson

Hudson has pitched five times since returning from Tommy John surgery, and has proven himself reliable, given a favorable matchup. His home ERA (2.57) is much better than his road total (4.41), which suggests his Tuesday start against the Marlins in Atlanta could be a good one. Get him in your lineup.

At this point in the season, every at-bat matters. It’s necessary to look at career batter vs. pitcher splits, and go with the favorable matchups. Here are a couple batters who fit the bill:

Jack Cust

Cust is batting .400 with two bombs and seven RBI over the past week. Oakland will face Seattle right-hander Brandon Morrow on Wednesday, a pitcher Cust has gone deep on twice in just 10 career at-bats. In addition to this, Cust is batting .364 in 22 at-bats this season at SAFECO Field this season.

Carlos Guillen

Guillen is 11-for-25 (.440) lifetime against Scott Baker, the Twins’ scheduled starter for Thursday’s matchup against the Tigers. On a day when only 22 teams are scheduled to play, Guillen makes for a great spot-start.

Good luck in your championship games, and thanks for reading. I hope the rest of you enjoyed this season as much as I did!

Nick Kappel is the resident Fantasy Baseball guru here at The Dugout Doctors and Baseball Reflections. You can read more of his work on Baseball Reflections by clicking HERE!

In last week’s Fantasy Focus, I suggested three players to add in your quest for a championship game berth.

If you’ve reached the finals, you’re just one win away from every manager’s dream: a fantasy baseball title.

It’s important to note, however, that in a one (or two) week matchup, anything can happen. You can no longer afford to start players based on their names or draft value; riding the hot hand is now the key to your success.

With that thought in mind, here are four pitchers whose favorable matchups make them prime spot-start candidates for week 25:

Hiroki Kuroda is 2-0 with a 1.92 ERA in his last 14 innings. In those two starts, Kuroda has recorded 12 strikeouts and zero walks. The 34-year-old gets two starts this week, one against the Nationals and the other against the Pirates, making him an excellent two-start pitcher to own.

Wade LeBlanc is 2-0 in three September starts, posting a 1.42 ERA and 0.84 WHIP in 19 innings. The 25-year-old southpaw will pitch against the Pirates and Diamondbacks this week, making him an adequate two-start spot-start.

Robinson Tejada has pitched extremely well since joining the Royals’ rotation earlier this month. In four September starts, the 27-year-old is 3-0 with a 0.80 ERA and 0.85 WHIP in 22 1/3 innings, while posting 24 strikeouts and issuing just 10 walks. Tejada is owned by less than half of the Yahoo fantasy baseball community, meaning there’s a good chance he’s available for you to add for his Friday start against the Twins.

In four September starts, Jon Garland is 3-0 with a 2.33 ERA and 1.15 WHIP. The tall right-hander has turned in five consecutive quality starts, and is likely to make it six in a row against either Washington or Pittsburgh later this week.

Nick Kappel is the resident Fantasy Baseball guru here at The Dugout Doctors and Baseball Reflections. You can read more of his work on Baseball Reflections by clicking HERE!

For most fantasy baseball leagues, today marks the beginning of the semifinal playoff round.

If you’ve made it this far, it’s important to know that this is the most critical time of the year. Everything that’s happened up until this point is irrelevant; because in a one-week matchup, anything can happen.

Forget about the fact that you nabbed Ben Zobrist off of waivers in May, or that you successfully avoided Josh Hamilton’s injury-plagued season.

The shocking truth is that Casey McGehee is currently more valuable than David Wright, so listen up.

Every game, every at-bat, and even every pitch at this point in the season is crucial. It’s important to play the matchups and ride the hot hand. Here are a few pointers for the upcoming week:

Ross Ohlendorf has turned in seven quality starts in his last nine outings. During that streak, the 27-year-old has posted a 2.94 ERA in 58 innings and boasts a respectable 42:20 K:BB ratio.

His next scheduled start is Friday in Pittsburgh against the Padres. In 92 innings at home this season, Ohlendorf is 8-2 with a 2.74 ERA and 1.16 WHIP. In his only start against San Diego this season, he pitched seven strong innings, allowing just three runs on five hits while picking up the win. He’s an excellent spot-start this week.

In just 95 at-bats with the Rangers, Julio Borbon is batting .347 with 19 runs, four dingers, 15 RBI and 14 steals. The 23-year-old is batting leadoff in the potent Texas lineup, further strengthening his value.

The Rangers play six games in Arlington this week, where Borbon is batting .500 in 48 at-bats. The left-handed batter is likely to face only one southpaw this week, so fantasy owners can count on him being in the lineup.

Frustrated with Alex Rios‘ recent lack of production? There’s no time to wait. Borbon would be a great replacement this week.

David DeJesus is putting together an impressive hitting streak. The Kansas City outfielder has a hit in 14 straight games, and has a hit in 31 of his last 34 games. During that 34-game span, DeJesus is batting .341 with 24 runs, four long balls and 14 RBI.

I could mention his home/road or lefty/righty splits, but it probably wouldn’t matter. The 29-year-old is hitting everything in sight, and would serve as a nice fill-in this week for any of your sluggish batters.

Albert Pujols and Ryan Howard will continue to produce, but playing hot hands such as Borbon and DeJesus (among others) will help separate you from your opponent. Check your matchups each day this week, and make spot-starts when it’s appropriate. The extra effort will go a long way in ensuring your championship game berth. Good luck!

Joe Mauer, Ryan Howard, and Mark Reynolds. Everyone knows their names, and most people know they’ve played exceptionally well in August.

What most people don’t know, however, is that Will Venable has batted .311 with six HR and 17 RBI in August.

Being able to scour players like Venable from the waiver wire is a vital component to your playoff run. For this reason, I present to you the All-August free agent team:

Catcher – Ivan Rodriguez

Pudge isn’t quite the hitter he used to be, but that hasn’t stopped him from posting respectable numbers in August. Over the last month, Rodriguez has scored 16 runs, hit one long ball, driven in five runs, and has even swiped a bag, all while batting .274.

It’s not pretty, but in deeper leagues this type of production is useful from a catcher, and Pudge is currently owned in only 19 percent of Yahoo! fantasy leagues.

First Base – Lyle Overbay

Overbay isn’t driving in runs at the clip he was earlier this season, but he’s recorded a hit in 12 of his last 14 games, and is batting .348 in August.

The 32-year-old also has three HR on the month, the same total as Justin Morneau. Deep leagues should take notice.

Second Base – Mark Ellis

Ellis’ season totals aren’t pretty, but what he did in May and June isn’t going to help you win now anyways. What’s important to know is that Ellis ranks second among players at his position with 21 RBI in the month of August.

What’s most impressive is that he’s batting .340 this month, meaning his presence on your team can only help you. Ellis is currently owned in just 24 percent of Yahoo! fantasy leagues.

Third Base – Ryan Roberts

Roberts has spent the majority of his time playing second base this season, but he’s eligible at third base as well.

In 86 August at-bats, Roberts is batting .360, with 16 runs, four HR and 11 RBI. He’s even displayed good plate discipline, walking as many times (11) as he’s struck out.

Roberts is owned in just 26 percent of Yahoo! leagues, but is making a strong case for a starting job with the Diamondbacks next season. Keeper and dynasty league owners should take notice.

Shortstop – Erick Aybar

Aybar has been very useful over the past month, batting .307 in 101 at-bats with 19 runs, two dingers, 10 RBI and five steals.

The 25-year-old provides just what you need at the shortstop position; a solid batting average, a good amount of runs, and the ability to swipe a few bases. If the rest of your league hasn’t picked up on him yet, you probably should.

Left Field – Carlos Gonzalez

Gonzalez struggled in his first crack at the big leagues last year in Oakland, but he’s recently showed why Baseball America named him Arizona’s No. 1 prospect in 2008.

In 66 August at-bats, Gonzalez has smashed six HR, driven in 13 runs, and has scored 15 times; all while batting .379. He’s forced his way into the Colorado lineup, and there’s a good chance he’s playing well enough to belong in your lineup as well.

Keeper and dynasty league owners should take notice, as the soon to be 24-year-old is currently available in 57 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

Center Field – Will Venable

Most fantasy owners have never even heard of Venable, but he’s caught my eye over the past month. In 90 August at-bats, he’s hit six HR and tallied 17 RBI, while scoring 16 times. He’s even stolen three bases, and he’s batting .311.

According to Baseball America, some scouts in the organization have compared Venable’s skill set to a guy like David Justice; a player who hit 20 HRs 11 different times and was a career .279 hitter.

The 26-year-old is still available in a whopping 79 percent of leagues, so go out and grab him.

Right Field – Angel Pagan

In 527 career at-bats prior to August, Pagan hit a whopping nine HRs. In 98 at-bats since, he’s hit six jacks to go along with 19 RBI, 18 runs and four steals. The 28-year-old has even posted a respectable .286 average this month.

Although this hot streak is unlikely to continue, it’s definitely worth mentioning.

Starting Pitcher – Carl Pavano

Over the past month, Pavano has posted better numbers than Justin Verlander, Jered Weaver, and Josh Beckett.

In 39 August innings (six starts), Pavano has gone 3-2 with a 3.46 ERA and 1.15 WHIP. He’s even posted a very respectable 28:8 K:BB ratio.

On the season, Pavano has amassed a 3.73 K:BB ratio, and his 4.07 FIP (Fielder Independent Pitching on an ERA scale) is a full run less than his 5.11 ERA, suggesting he’s pitched much better than his ERA indicates.

Pavano’s recent trade to Minnesota puts the 33-year-old in the thick of a playoff race, meaning he’s got something to play for. Pavano is owned in only 34 percent of Yahoo! leagues, so there’s a good chance he’s available to aid your playoff run as well.