The most important position in fantasy baseball is the outfield, simply because in standard leagues we need to start five. In addition, it is naturally the deepest position in fantasy baseball due to the volume of players. Each team plays two outfielders exclusively, and some play three. This allows for at least 75 legitimate options for fantasy baseball. Nevertheless, there are multiple sleepers at the outfield position. This is part one of our outfield sleepers, as it is such a deep position. Here are some to keep an eye on in the top 200 of your draft.
George Springer, Houston
Astros fans have been waiting for this for years, and 2014 is going to be the year. George Springer is not a household name yet, but he could be by the end of this year. Last season, Springer hit .303 with 37 home runs and 108 runs batted in in the minors. That is a great season in itself, but that is not the impressive part. Springer also stole 45 bases. He will not be able to put those stats up right away in the Big Leagues, especially since he strikes out more than the average .300 hitter. But, think if he can reach 60 percent of that. That leaves Springer with over 20 home runs, 60 runs batted in, and 30 stolen bases. Springer has the potential to be a fantasy stud, so get him before someone else takes him. His ADP is currently at 190.
Christian Yelich, Miami
Last year, we were able to get a glimpse of Yelich, and the potential is evident. In just 240 at-bats, he was able to accrue 4 home runs, 16 runs batted in, and 10 stolen bases. Should he stay on that pace, he would have produced around 12 home runs, 48 runs batted in, and 30 stolen bases. Factor that in with an offseason of a Major League training program and his power numbers will increase. Yelich can do everything, and at just 21 years of age he has room to improve. At an ADP of just 196, he is a great value late in drafts.
Evan Gattis, Atlanta
Last season, Gattis was one of the best surprises in fantasy baseball and undoubtedly helped some people in many categories. Gattis is more of a catcher, but being eligible at outfield just adds additional value. Last season Gattis was able to produce 21 home runs and 65 runs batted in, in just 354 at-bats. His average was low at .243, but with the opportunity for that much power, average is gladly sacrificed. This year Gattis should get around 600 at-bats, and if he stays on last year’s pace that would give him over 35 home runs and 100 runs batted in. At an ADP of 144, you are not going to find that power anywhere else.
Others to keep an eye on: Chris Carter, HOU, Torii Hunter, DET, Nelson Cruz (free agent)
ADP’s are based on data from FantasyPros.com
Stay tuned for the rest of the “Fantasy Baseball Draft Advice: Sleepers by Position” series.
