If you are a veteran fantasy baseball owner, you should know it’s a season-long marathon.
With 162 games on the Major League Baseball schedule, owners go through struggles at times finding the right guys to place in the right spots.
I know it’s more than a month into your league’s season, but here are some players you might want to research if you want to clinch a spot in the fantasy playoffs.
J.D. Drew, OF
When Drew is financially stable, he’s a bum. So only believe in his abilities when his contract has one year left. With Drew playing for a hefty deal, expect him to put up some good numbers.
Drew will have plenty of RBI opportunities as long as Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis keep reaching base at a good rate.
Drew is available in more than 30 percent of ESPN leagues, so grab him now before he gets a contract extension.
Brandon Morrow, SP
Morrow is an interesting prospect at this point in his career. Drafted No. 5 overall in the 2006 MLB Draft by Seattle, Morrow moved to Toronto in an offseason trade where he’s striking out more than a batter an inning.
He’s a frustrating option thanks to a wild 1.53 WHIP, but he’s got electric stuff that should put together some excellent outings in 2010. Though Morrow needs a lot of attention and patience, he’ll be worth the trouble if he continues to strike out batters.
Drew Stubbs, OF
In order for Stubbs to succeed at the big league level, he’s got to do whatever it takes to reach base. While struggling to provide a spark at the top of Cincinnati’s order, Stubbs was moved to the bottom of the lineup where he can hopefully fix his swing.
Being placed in the No. 7 spot in the batting order definitely hurt his stock, but Stubbs still owns the ability to swipe 50 bases and drive in 70 RBIs.
There is no doubt in his natural ability, so keep an eye out for him.
Ian Kennedy, SP
Kennedy is a reliable option if you’re still looking for an extra starter to fill out your roster. He’s doesn’t possess the kind of talent that will blow anybody away, but Kennedy’s control is his greatest asset.
Through the first month, he’s sporting a 1.11 WHIP and a solid 3.48 ERA. Kennedy has yet to put together a full season of starts as he was overlooked while on the stacked New York Yankees teams of the past few years. Kennedy is now in Arizona where he is finally getting a chance to flourish.