MLB Spring Training is nearly upon us, and for millions of people worldwide their fantasy baseball preparation has begun in earnest. Here at Sports World News we will break down all 30 MLB teams in terms of their fantasy value. Readers will find the must-own players in every format, sleepers, and hidden gems only necessary for those in very deep leagues.
Today's preview will be on the Philadelphia Phillies.
Must Own
Ben Revere, OF: Revere is not a cornerstone player for your fantasy team, but he is an overlooked asset-especially in Roto formats. Players like Billy Hamilton and Dee Gordon will go earlier than Revere, when all Revere's done is hit more than .300 in two straight seasons and steal bases. In 2014 Revere swiped 49 bags, getting caught just eight times. He's going No. 130 overall, and No. 37 among outfielders. Feel free to reach a little bit.
Cole Hamels, SP: Hamels has been the hottest name on the trade market this offseason, but despite all the chatter he's still in Philly. As long as that's the case, his win totals will probably be depressed. Other than that-he's an ace. Hamels has pitched 200-plus innings for five consecutive seasons, and posted an ERA over 3.06 just once (3.60). His K-rate is consistent, and he has good control. Total package, and he could just rack up a bunch of wins even if the team overall stinks.
Cliff Lee, SP: At 36 years old, the luster is off of Lee as a fantasy No. 1. In 2013 though, Lee racked up 222.1 innings, pitching to a 2.87 ERA with 14 wins and 222 strikeouts. Those are ace numbers, and the chance he regains that stature can be had for the 155th pick right now. It's not wise to bet your rotation on Lee, but he's a control freak. Expect him to contribute positively to your WHIP (and K/BB if your league uses it) in Roto, and be more valuable in points leagues because of his allergy to walks.
Jonathan Papelbon, RP: Papelbon had one of his best statistical seasons in 2014 despite playing for the last-place Phils. Even though his name is almost as hot as hot as Hamels' in trade talks, he won't be going anywhere that doesn't need a bona fide closer.
Sleepers
Chase Utley, 2B: Utley is a solid name, being taken as the No. 17 second baseman. He carries injury risk, but he's certainly better than No. 17 at a shallow position and he proved it last year. He made it through 155 games, hit .284 with 17 home runs and 78 RBI. He even stole 10 bases. If you miss out on the top of 2B, wait a while and nab Utley late.
Domonic Brown, OF: Brown was a nightmare to own in 2014, but he's still just one year removed from a .494 slugging percentage with 27 home runs. Nobody's banging down the door to draft him (No. 94 OF), so a late, late flier will do.
Deep Stashes
Maikel Franco, 3B: Franco has big time power, and should be able to make it to the bigs if Cody Asche isn't panning out. Franco had his ups and downs last year, but when he's on he's one of the finest hitting prospects in baseball. Philly isn't playing for much this season, so if he's showing promise early expect him to rise.
All rankings & draft positions courtesy of Fantasy Pros.
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