Fan Fanatic Sports Staff
While the fantasy catching position isn't really anything to brag about, if you're able to land either of the top two players -- Atlanta's Brian McCann or Los Angeles' Russell Martin -- then you no doubt have an advantage over other owners at the position. But at what cost in the draft? Don't take a catcher too early (3rd-4th round if where both these studs should be drafted), but if you're going to do so, then grab McCann or Martin, especially if one falls into the 4th round.
McCann hit .301 with 23 HRs and 87 RBIs, while Martin had a slightly down year (.280 BA, 13 HRs, 69 RBIs, 87 runs). But the 18 stolen bases separate him from everyone else in the group. McCann's HR total, .300-plus batting average and RBI output also makes him enticing. I like the added power, average and RBIs, so I slightly -- and I mean slightly -- favor McCann. If I get "stuck" with Martin, well then my draft is ruined (joking).
Geovany Soto also offers great HR potential (23 bombs as a rookie), and one would think even better production this year. His value, based on draft position, could make Soto a better value than both McCann and Martin.
But after McCann, Martin and Soto, then you just don't know what to expect. Victor Martinez was once a stud, but he was hurt last year and do you really trust him now? Could be a big-time bargain this year. Joe Mauer was always a safe pick (great average, plus-RBI total for catcher), but his back is junk now, so stay away from him unless you've got inside information regarding his health.
If you've watched the World Baseball Classic (WBC), Team USA's Chris Iannetta has been impressive with the stick. He had 18 HRs last year, so he's not a bad pickup later. I've got a funny feeling Jorge Posada's still got some pop in his bat. What about the bulging waistline of Bengie Molina? He's not going to win a best body contest, but he always flies under the radar and produces year in and year out (19-19-16 homers last 3 years).
Rookie Matt Wieters from Baltimore has Major League pop and he's the No. 1 rookie to get.
After the top 9, shoot for specific categories. If you want homers then draft Mike Napoli (20 HRs last year), Kelly Shoppach (21 HRs) or Ramon Hernandez (15 HRs). Guys that are consistent but won't really help impact your team include: A.J. Pierzynski, Yadier Molina and Dioner Navarro. Remember the name Ivan Rodriguez. He's currently a free agent, but he deserves a MLB job and is proving he can still play with his performance in the WBC.
If you miss out on the two studs of the group, don't panic. There are plenty of other positions to chase that can help your team more than middle-tier backstops. But always remember: Big risk could equal big reward.
(Coming tomorrow: First base rankings by Jim Ingram)
TOP 20 CATCHERS
- Brian McCann (ATL)
- Russell Martin (LAD)
- Geovany Soto (CHI)
- Victor Martinez (CLE)
- Joe Mauer (MIN)
- Jorge Posada (NYY)
- Chris Iannetta (COL)
- Ryan Doumit (PIT)
- Bengie Molina (SF)
- Matt Wieters (BAL)
- A.J. Pierzynski (CWS)
- Yadier Molina (STL)
- Ramon Hernandez (CIN)
- Mike Napoli (LAA)
- Kelly Shoppach (CLE)
- Dioner Navarro (TB)
- Kurt Suzuki (OAK)
- Ivan Rodriguez (Free agent)
- Chris Snyder (ARZ)
- Taylor Teagarden (TEX)
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