Psst! This post is gonna list 2nd basemen that you should target in your 2019 fantasy baseball drafts. I’m whispering because you don’t want everyone to see this post. No, I can’t whisper louder, then it WOULDN’T BE WHISPERING! Okay, gig’s up (or maybe that’s jig’s up), the love I’m about to reiterately (Made Up Word of the Day!) confirm is on these guys I love later in drafts. I’m not going to mention Jonathan Villar other than this one mention of him where I say I’m not going to mention him. At least that’s my apophasis and I’m sticking to it! These are players that you’re looking at later and all of them have ADPs after 200 (unlike Villar; okay, two non-mentions). Some could be the 2nd baseman on your team, they are more than likely MIs. This is a (legal-in-all-countries-except-Croatia) supplement to the top 20 2nd basemen for 2019 fantasy baseball. Click on the player’s name where applicable to read more and see their 2019 projections. Anyway, here’s some 2nd basemen to target for 2019 fantasy baseball:
Joey Wendle (207 NFBC, Yahoo 294, ESPN 235) I’m seeing Wendle being pegged as the Rays’ three-hole hitter. If that’s true, he’s at least worth a top 150 pick. Runs and RBIs alone give him that value. I wonder if anyone’s ever hit third all year and not been worth a 150 overall pick. I’m gonna say no, but I’m also in no way fact-checking that, and wouldn’t know how.
Ketel Marte (222 NFBC, 253 Yahoo) I’m conflicted about mentioning Marte, because I do like him, but I think he has some serious concerns and I don’t think his ADP is that off. In fact (Grey’s got more!), he might be a little bit overdrafted going 222 overall, and definitely has been drafted way earlier than that and I don’t think that’s right. Wow, huge endorsement for Ketel! “I’m Grey Albright and I sorta, kinda, an eensy widdle bit approve this message.” Because this endorsement is already going better than any DNC endorsement of Bernie, let me go further down this rabbit hole and say he hit .224 vs. righties last year. Righties, ya know, the most popular hand pitchers use.
Willy Adames (226 NFBC, 243 Yahoo, ESPN 206) Already gave you my Willy Adames sleeper, and, apparently, it did not make much of an impression because everyone is still looking at him as an afterthought. I guess since Steamer projects him for a 13/10/.248 line, an afterthought is to be expected. “To be or not to be…expected,” a quote by the famous hedge artist, Grey Shakespeare.
Garrett Hampson (203 NFBC, Yahoo 259, ESPN unranked) As good as time as any to point out that I moved Hampson up in my rankings, as I said I would in my rankings when I originally dropped my rankings. *looks up* Damn, I expected balloons to drop for most times using the word ‘rankings’ in a sentence. *dials phone* “Hello, Guinness…Yeah, it’s Grey again. Hello? Hello?” Damn, they’re rude. As long as Hampson has playing time, I’m in there like testicles in Mr. Belvedere.
Jeff McNeil (369 NFBC, Yahoo unranked, ESPN unranked) The Mets are giving me the impression they want McNeil in the lineup, saying they’ll even start him in the outfield to get at-bats. I nearly wrote a sleeper post for him, when he wasn’t even guaranteed playing time, and now he could be one of the biggest surprises that is going undrafted in shallower leagues.
Luis Urias (437 NFBC, Yahoo unranked, ESPN unranked) Sometimes I like to say his name to the tune of Notorious. That is all. Okay, not all. Urias doesn’t have huge power or speed, so you’re kinda hoping he hits .285 or better and in the two hole. If he’s in the two hole, I guess we should call him Luis Uranus.
David Fletcher (604 NFBC, Yahoo unranked, ESPN unranked) When I see Fletcher’s name, I begin to raise my arms slowly, then I start chanting his name, then, because my arms are raised, I lower my chin to my mouse and draft Fletcher without the use of my hands. That’s how dedicated I am to owning him. I’ve already drafted him twice, and, by the end of draft season, I could own him on more teams. I find Fletcher so fetch. Here’s more about Fletcher:
Great 2B post Grey
I aim TWO BE great this season
as i have Villar starter+ Adames + Hampson in the wings
in my dynasty team <3
@Nick: Ha, thanks! Nice 2nd basemen you have!
How about Moustakas and Murphy?
@jose H.: Elligibility (Moose) and ADP
Great! Now I’m on a 3 hole hitter wild goose chase!
@Frank: marlins starting 3 hole hitter combined for 86 runs and 76 rbi
@Frank: giants 79 runs 65 rbi
@Frank: I think this is great commentary and worth noting. Let me play the other side of the coin that the aggregate certainly points to production coming from that spot in the order. However, managers rarely leave unproductive bats in that spot long term. It’s a fine gamble to take on a sleeper, but understand the risk is also him hitting like crap and dropping to the 7 hole. What do those aggregate stats look like?
@Frank: Haha, well, it’s usually good… There might be some duds!
@Grey: oh sure, was an argument against. My interest was peaked on how the worst offences faired
@Frank: wasn’t!
Gotcha
Hey Grey – trade question
Dynasty keep forever…my Cease and Tanaka for his WHeeler and J. Naylor
TOo much for Wheeler? Too little return for Cease? Not sure who to target for trading Cease or should I hold him long term? Thanks
@Ed: It’s fair. I like the Wheeler side if you’re competing this year.
@Ed: Agree with DT
Grey!!!!
Excellent 2B report!
a. Good news on your boy Fletcher in THAT league, the ‘pert family league. Cozart injured his calf (don’t ask me why he would injure his own calf, sounds kind of brutal to injure one’s own calf – heck we only have 2) and Fletcher will get the early track on PT at 2B. If he hits the ground running, even when Cozart gets back he’ll get injured again climbing the steps out of the dugout. Fletcher sounds like such a cool name ’cause of Chevy Chase.
b. Nice list of 2B. Gonna love Wendle and McNeil again this year.
c. Guys in your last year’s buy columns (which I can’t wait for yet again) are this year’s either sleepers or must-starts. Guys (and girls) should go back to all those buy columns and catch ’em all.
d. Happy International Women’s day to all our female readers. I tell my wife that this day is kind of like poking your finger into the eye of women because we mark this day yet progress for women’s rights (even the most basic) is minimal at best. My wife says she celebrates it with other women by letting them know that we’ve made it this far, let’s try and improve etc. She also agrees with me that men use it in a creepy way to subtly hit up on women by giving them a flower, then the woman thinks Oh, he’s thinking of me how nice, but in reality he gave you the flower to hit up on you. Creepy, right? So happy international women’s day.
e. Subdued Norm MacDonald quote of the day for March 8 [This will be my last day of quotes before the season starts. I need to prep for the new season. It’s been a slice y’all. Thanks for all the comments.]
1. Alex Trebek set a game show record for game shows hosted. The previous record holder was who gives a f*ck.
2. Three children were injured when a cannon exploded during a civil war re-enactment. To keep things authentic, the children had to have their limbs sawed off with a rusty hacksaw.
3. Presidential fact: President Obama is the first president to use the N word as a term of endearment.
4. Chicago is now #1 in murder and sausages. That sounds like my kinda town!! Chicago is…my kinda town! [Use your best Frank Sinatra voice, y’all.]
5. A recent report stated that there are over 65 active serial killers in the United States. But what they don’t know is there’s actually 66. Muahahahahahahahahaha!! [Just between the two of us.]
6. Brides Magazine released a list of 11 ways to be a terrible bride. They list don’t interfere with the wedding planner, don’t lie about the wedding costs to your family and at #1 don’t f*ck your husband’s best friends.
7. A hunter goes out bear hunting with a rifle and spots a bear. Gets the bear in his sites and BUM, the bear goes down. He runs over the rolling hills to the spot where the bear went down. He’s looking around for the bear and can’t see him anywhere. As he’s standing there, he feels something like bear’s claws poking him on his shoulders. The bear goes ‘What the f*ck do you think you were doing, coming in here, shooting at me. I’m gonna teach you a lesson that you will never forget.’ The bear drops the hunter’s trousers and rogers him rightly (or roundly if you will). So, afterwards the hunter is really embarrassed and goes out and buys a bigger gun. Goes out to the same area and sees the bear. BLAM and he shoots the bear. I got him this time, the bear goes down. He runs over, feels the bears’ claws again on his shoulders. ‘Unbelievable! You come into my woods again, so I’m gonna teach you a lesson’ and rogers him rightly yet again. Hunter goes out again buys an elephant gun. I’m gonna finish this bear. He waits, it’s colder now. Sees the bear, BLAM. He’s sure as heck now that he’s got the bear. Goes looking for the bear, no bear around. Feels the familiar bear claws on his shoulders once again. Bear says to the hunter ‘You don’t come here for the hunting, do ya!’
f. Have a nice weekend.
Cheers,
Ante
@Ante Galic: A. Yeah, why would you injure your own calf and not someone else’s? Haha B. Yup! C. Yup D. Aw, ain’t you the sweetie E. 5. Haha F. You too!
@Ante Galic:
It is highly unlikey there are any women readers on this blog…..intertional or otherwise
We have 5 female readers, Lenny… Don’t try anything funny and chase them away
@Grey:
lol …………I can’t speak for lenny but i’ll behave myself.
Haha
Your recommending to wait that long to pick a 2b man ?
@LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood: “Some could be the 2nd baseman on your team, they are more than likely MIs.”
@Cram It:
Thanks I see now
@LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood: These target posts are all late sleepers
@Grey:
i guess is should read a little more closely.
that would have been a punt longer than Randal Cuningham’s 91 yarder
Haha, you are required by statute 89.B of Razzball comments, to refer to a Philly sporting event in every comment…
@Grey:
I don’t know that’s more pressure than Reggie Whites 5 sack game against the St Lois Cards…………
Ha, that made me laugh
First pick in our NFBC this AM was Wendle. Can you list Jose Iglesias first tomorrow please?
@The Great Knoche: For the record, I picked Wendle before reading this article. I was stuck at 2B and was hoping Marte would fall. It was between Wendle and Cesar. Cesar is going to hit 8th with no chance of moving up in that lineup which is no bueno.
@hot corner: Where’d you get him?
@Grey: Round 14, Pick 208
That’s not a bad price
@Grey: It wasn’t planned, but I have been OF heavy and MI is looking really thin. If he can go 75/12/65/15/.280, then I will take it at pick 208.
My OF will either great or awful. Not sure if there is any middle ground for me, but second place is just the first loser, so might as well take some risks. Yelich / Dahl / Robles / Mazara / Bader
Yeah, I hear ya
@hot corner: Cesar is so good though. I hate that is happening to him, even though I think him hitting leadoff, Cutch hitting 6th, and Odubel hitting 8th could happen as well
@The Great Knoche: Haha
Thoughts on Lourdes Gurriel now that it seems he’s got the SS job but also 2b eligible?
@TC: He’s got 20 homer power. Doesn’t walk.
@TC: I have him in my rankings with 341 ABs, that still sounds about right for someone who could lose their job by June
What do you think of Taylor Ward if he gets some playing time? Could play some 2B/3B for the Angels
@M: He isn’t in the Top 500 and Roster Resource has him down as the 3B starter, so we must not be expecting alot. He is likely waiver fodder until we see what we’ve got in April. In an AL Only or super deep league, you can draft him to find out, since pretty much anyone getting playing time has value.
@M: Just noticed… they have him starting because Cozart is questionable for Opening Day. So we think even less of him now.
@M: He has no job if Cozart returns a week into the season
Grey,
At what rounds are you taking your 3rd through 6th starters? Thanks as always
Ah ah ah ah ah ah
Here, have a dollar
In fact, nah brotherman here, have two
I’ll be standing tall with Mr. Wendal.
Between Wendle, Hampson, and Shaw, I’m essentially “punting” 2B and rolling with these guys late.
@bigbear: Haha, nice
Feedback on this team in 5×5 roto 12 team:
c – Wellington Castillo
c – Carson Kelly
1b – Matt Olson
2b – alberto Mondesi
ss – Trevor Story
3b – Anthony Rendon
mi – Willy Adames
ci – Rafael Devers
OF – Mike Trout
OF – Micheal Conforto
OF – Nomar Mazara
OF – Domingo Santana
OF – Ramon Laurenao
UT – Yonder Alonso
Bench – Peter Alonso
bench – Fernado Tatis Jr.
bench – Christin Stewart
bench – Lewis Brinson
SP – Walker Buehler
SP – Joey Luchessi
SP – Robbie Ray
SP – Jameson Taillon
SP – Hyn-Jin Ryu
Rp – Roberto Osuna
Rp – Jose Alvardo
Rp – Mychal Givens
Rp – Adam Ottavino
Bench – Touki Toussaint
Bench – Brandon Woodruff
Bench – Drew Smyly
@Earl: You look low on power and AVG, maybe not that low on power tho… More worried about AVG… Pitching looks solid, not real complaints… Don’t love Ray, but he’s fine
@Grey: Thanks. I hear ya about Ray although good for K’s. Might have been a bit of fart on that one.
I also agree that average might be my achilles heel for hitting. At first I thought it ,ight be speed but I think that is good. I think power will be good enough perhaps not top shelf but good enough. Tried to follow the Grey rankings with perhaps minor deviations.
This has nothing to do with 2B…but…I was planning on taking Bauer with my first pick. I currently have Cole and Ray but need another SP. I am confident that Bauer will not be there with my pick…who should I take from the following list of players/prices:
Corbin – $16
Carrasco – $21
Syndegaard – $14
Flaherty – $12
Taillon – $11
Paxton – $13
@The Skrimmer: I’d narrow it to Carrasco, Corbin and Flaherty, they’re all great options. I’ll take $12 Flaherty…
@The Skrimmer: Agree with DT
Good shiatzu, Grey. Really hilarious write up. This is the good pickins. I like the Profar-lacic pick. I almost picked him until I realized if I picked Ray at 137 I could lead all DC’s in Ks with him as my fifth starter. Not my plan initially but this is a crazy train that I’m going to ride for what its worth. My goal basicallyis gonna be to finish fourth in the league and first in overall standings. The offense heavy approach the majority of the league has may beget such a juxtaposition. Word.
@Dave D: Thanks! Yeah, I hadn’t drafted Profar yet and I like him, so I figured why not… I’m coming around on the Ray pick. I didn’t like him in January, but Rudy started drafting him and I can see the upside of having 220 Ks that late in the draft… Your pitching is insane, you need some hitting tho
@Grey:
Yeah, you’re totally right that I need some O. This draft is a little tricky as I’ve done thee already and have become accustomed to getting some insane values on offense from 200+. Different crowd here. My philosophy favors offense first but above that I draft value. Drafting Folty and Ray there really could be part of something special if things seing the right way, but I have a lot of work ahead mining for power and counting stats. I’ll put on my hard hat for picks 200-500.
I looked at Folty hard, and even Googled for latest news on him, but I couldn’t pull the trigger
@Grey: Yeah I was looking at Braves journalists on Twitter finding their latest observations and quotes. It seems like he’s ok. Found some stuff on him talking about pitching through it last year and it surely didn’t affect his performance adversely. Fingers crossed. Happ was a good pick though. I would have grabbed him there if you’d taken Folty anyway. We can compare those choices on October 3rd.
Yeah, I don’t dislike Folty, but, man, arm injuries scare me… I haven’t drafted Heaney again since my 1st two drafts bc of arm concerns… Hopefully he’s ok too
@Grey:
Heaney had the same thing last year. I don’t think its any different. I am not changed on Heaney at all. I dunno if that helps but I personally would not hesitate to draft him at his 165ish ADP if I needed an arm there.
While the spring hype can blow up some players ADP, some false alarms can also really benefit. Id rather have Happ than Heaney in single sesson anyway so I think you made a good call.
Yeah, I hope so on Heaney, I already have him so I’m not going in further, but hoping, and thinking, he’s fine since he did have it last year, as you said
@Grey:
I’m sorry that I’m hording power arms. I really need to stop that and start focusing on offense rounds 13-14. I’m done on SPs for at least the next six rounds I believe. I just couldn’t pass on Glasnow. Now some offense I swear!!!
Ugh, I really wanted him
@Grey:
In a different format Id work out a trade. I feel the same way on some bats I totally missed out on. I would have taken Domingo there if he were available. Power guys with decent average and wheels are running scarce.
Eovaldi will likely get a good bunch of W’s. I’m not sure how many Glasnow will pick up.
Yeah, I hope so on Eovaldi, he was the next guy on my rankings that was available… The entire Bieber tier got cannibalized before I was even able to draft
@Dave D:
Yeah, we were in a bad draft slot in this draft with this crowd in that tier. That is why I was aggressive on second tier types a couple rounds earlier. Weird draft. Nothing like my other three DC’s. I have totally revamped my strategy now. To be continued… I mean, the vultures didn’t even leave you Lucchesi at 169!!!???
I know! First league where I couldn’t get Lucchesi, that tier got snatched so fast in this league… Never had a problem before getting at least one upside arm
Great write up Grey, been looking at deep middle infielders lately so this is helpful. I’m really excited about Hampton as long as the Rockies don’t do anything screwy but they probably will. Definitely taking the chance at 200 though.
I clicked on every player page. Enjoy your $200 steak dinner tonight.
Merry Baseball
@crimedog: Thanks! I love steak! I’m still worried on Hampson about PT, tbh
yo check out my hitting so far on my CBS home league
C: Grandal
C: undrafted
1B: Voit (iffy cuz he may lost job to Bird out of ST)
2B: Murphy (Coors)
3B: Bryant
SS: Treat
MI: Story
CI: undrafted
OF: Hoskins, Conforto, Laureano, Domingo, JBJ
U: Mondesi
Pretty good huh? C2 is gonna suck. Not sure who to take for CI. Does this lineup have any weaknesses? Should I lean 1B for CI cuz Voit may not get the job? TBH at this stage in the draft the 1B guys are looking better than 3B anyway.
@peacecoast: Hoskins will get 1B eligibility quickly too
@knucks: and murphy
@peacecoast: What you two said about CI and 1B… I love the hitting, you need Voit, Hoskins and Murphy to give you power is all… Love the JBJ pick, you’re smart!
@Grey: I learn from the best (literally picked JBJ this am after I listened to the ‘cast on the way to work).
Great write up!
Weary of Hamson after Tapia, Dahl, McMahon, Murphy and every other promising Rockie hitter that I’ve been excited about!
I have the 2 pick with Trout kept. 10 team roto. I’ll draft Yelich but can keep Harper at 19. Are you cool starting with 2 outfielders if i take an infielder round 3? I could keep Rendon at 59 instead and hope that Baez or Machado fall to me which is possible just not sure how likely. If not those maybe Freeman or Goldy. Other option is to draft Turner instead of Yelich and keep Harper at 19. WWGD (what would grey do?)
Thanks!
Thanks!!
@J-Hova: I’d keep Harper there.
@J-Hova: Agree with Cram it
@Donkey Teeth:
Thanks guys – Would you draft Yelich with Harper and start w/ 2 of or rather have Turner at 2 with Harper.
@J-Hova: It’s hard to go wrong, they’re both great. If it’s standard 5×5 roto then I give a slight edge to Turner, but really splitting hairs…
@J-Hova: Yeah, I’m worried too, what can do? Agree with others
@Grey:
At least Cargo doenst play 2b which eases my mind a tad
Grey – you’re ok with two of rounds 1&2? Seems like this yr is so OF heavy
It’s not ideal, but I’m fine with it, OF thins out quickly — They will make Cargo a 2B
In a vacuum, would you keep Joey Wendle and/or Jake Bauers for $6 each in a keeper league?
@wizard of ozuna: The problem is your league isn’t a vacuum, theres important variables not provided…League size, roto or H2H, major inflation at auction?
Generally those are probably fair prices but not great bargains unless its a super deep league.
@wizard of ozuna: Wendle, yes. Bauers does nothing for me, but if you can afford to find out, I guess.
@wizard of ozuna: Agree with DT, vacuum doesn’t hygienic either… Can we get you a beverage? You much be parched… I like Bauers better in general
@Grey: Never draft from inside a vacuum, too dusty in there!
I’m getting verklempt thinking of it
Feedback on the roster appreciated.
Dynasty/Keeper league. Head to Head. QS not Wins, 12 Teams
C Danny Jansen
1B Matt Olson
2B Villar
3B Machado
SS Tim Anderson
OF Harper
OF Yelich
OF Springer
UTIL Khris Davis
UTIL Yoan Moncada
BNCH Ian Happ
BNCH Daniel Palka
BNCH Ramon Laureano
Minors Vlad JR
MInors Pete Alonso
Minors Verdugo
SP James Paxton
SP Zack Wheeler
SP Joey Lucchesi
SP Kyle Hendricks
SP Kenta Maeda
SP Chase Anderson
RP David Robertson
RP Wade Davis
RP Raisel Iglesias
@chicitysox23: Your hitting looks solid, bit iffy on AVG, but in H2H it’s not a worry as much…Your pitching is great, you followed my rankings, I can tell…
Just what I needed for my team! Some 2B guys too target.
As for a trade in my 10 team salary (24 roster/$260 cap) dynasty 5×5 league I’ve been offered the following:
I get Gleybar Torres ($5) & Kluber ($20)
I give Altuve ($32) & Paxton ($7)
Thanks and have a great weekend!
@Chud: I’d take the Altuve side but its fair
@Chud: Agree with DT
@Grey: Appreciate the insight -the deal would save me enough salary that I’d be able to keep W. Contreras & Leclerc.
@Chud: Even better!
Need help choosing my last keeper in a 14 tm 5×5 Head to Head league.
I have Harper, Arenado, Story, and Vlad Jr. for sure.
Deciding between Gallo and Treinen for my #5 spot. Do you think it’s smart to overload in power to make my team unstoppable on offense, or should I balance and keep a P?
@AKA: Gallo
I for one do not want to see Wendle pegged in the three hole.
@Zeus: Is that the left or the right ear?
Always left ear
@Zeus: Maybe, maybe not, but that’s where I’ve seen him listed
@Zeus:
Dude you had me literally LoL with your comment to me last week!
@frankgrimes: What did I say Grimesy?
@Zeus:
Ante = Bobo hehe
Are you not worried about Urias getting benched after Tatis Jr. is called up? I’m tempted to go after Urias (or Kinsler) in my NL Only, but if Tatis comes up early they both will be at risk of playing very little.
How much are you bidding on Urias in an NL Only? More then $1-2?
One of my leagues uses ESPN Live Draft Results for our draft and I was entering in the rankings… Tim Tebow is going ADP 259 (340 overall). Are you drafting him there…? LOL
Drafting for my first RCL tonight! Pumped. Will also be becoming a subscriber today, got sold on the War Room through the podcast. Do I need to message Rudy to get the War Room once I purchase? I know this has been asked before but I forget.
@Wass:
I would not touch Tebow if he was ADP 100000. Haha.
@Whatever: SAME!!!! Its hilarious that he is so high though haha
Yeah, you need to hit up [email protected] I think… It should be clear once you subscribe… I’m drafting Tebow top ten overall in ESPN mocks to throw off their results
@Grey: Okay perfect! Thanks. I can’t subscribe until this afternoon but will be for sure. Haha what a great approach! Would really help my keepers out if he could become a 3rd rounder in ADP
BTW, I nearly started Vikings lats night, but watched Secret City instead
@Grey: oh so close… I saw someone else mentioning it last week too and I think you’ll enjoy it for sure, probably wont like it as much as I do, but thats all good haha I had a big project due this week so haven’t been able to start the 2nd season of Gomorra yet.
You gotta watch season 2, man! It’s so good
@Grey: I just haven’t had time for any shows this last week which sucks but I am so looking forward to season 2!! Hopefully will get to start it this weekend.
Immortal wouldn’t give any excuses
@Grey: oh man… the truth haha what am i doing!!?
Dropping the ball!
@Grey: No kidding haha just signed up for membership and saw the link for the War Room. Thank you!!
Nice! Thanks!
Yesterday we happened upon That Mitchell and Webb Look. It’s the early sketch show featuring much of the Peep Show cast.
Definitely worth a watch.
@Matty: Nice! Thanks for the heads up!
Hi Grey,
Have Benintendi in a keeper league (350 cap, OBP) at six bucks. Need to give a long term contract at plus 5 bucks per year. How many years would you give?
Thanks.
$26 sounds fine
In my NL only keeper league where I always play for the win, someone is offering me Odor ($21) for Brandon Lowe ($5), Lourdes Gurriel ($3), and Christin Stewart ($5). Am I giving away too much or fools gold?
@Schmohawks Bob: And when I say NL only, I meant AL only. Need to up my coffee levels before I post again
@Schmohawks Bob: How many keepers do you have?
@Grey: I hate to bore you with league specifics but you must keep no less than 7 and no more than 15. The guy I’m trading with can’t get to 7 and I’ve got at least 15 before the trade and a few others I could add after such as Grichuk for $17 or Kyle Gibson for $9, although I will end up with much less money for the draft. I don’t love Odor and I’m worried about playing time for all three of them. You seem very Lowe on low and Gurriel too, and meh on Stewart and fairly up on Odor. Anyway, I’m going for four in a row so I don’t want to destroy my team before the season even starts.
@Schmohawks Bob: Since you were nice enough to ask, here’s who I’ve got right now for my roster entering the draft
Willans Astudillo C Min $5
Danny Jansen C Tor $6
Matt Olson 1B Oak $9
Brandon Lowe 2B TB $5
Lourdes Gurriel SS Tor $3
Mike Trout OF LAA $40
Ramon Laureano OF $2
Austin Meadows OF TB $7
Christin Stewart OF Det $5
Corey Kluber P Cle $25
Charlie Morton P TB $9
Mike Fiers P Oak $5
Josh James P Hou $5
Carlos Rodon P CHW $5
Blake Treinen P Oak $9
15 players keep for $140 of total salary. 8 more players needed for $120
I’d take Odor there
Would you rather keep E Rodriguez or N Pivetta?
I was hoping to see Pivetta break out last year maybe this year… Both seem ranked closely everywhere
Ed-Rod
It’s Greysball season!!!
Pick 4 keepers, 5×5 OBP
Realmuto $15
Bellinger $20
Vladdy Jr $1
Acuna $25
Harper $30
Soto $15
Buehler $15
Treinen $5
Thanks bud! Just read alll the rankings on a long bus ride to VT. Auction next week, keepers due tonight
Greysball!
Vlad, Acuna, Soto, Walker — great keepers, tough calls
Final keeper in a keep-forever 7×7 roto league, (5×5 cats plus QS and Holds) — Kershaw or Darvish? Either would be my #2 behind Max. Leaning towards Darvish at the moment, just seems more likely to get 150 IP.
Neither, Yu
@Grey:
Other choices are Mallex (as a bench player, keeping someone everywhere but C and 2B), or one of Knebel/Doolittle
Take the closer
In a 10 team Dynasty keep forever OPS league would you trade:
Kris Bryant and Carlos Correa for Alex Bregman
Nah
My NFBC update.
Rudy has the best team also one of the oldest ever assembled.
Knoche picks Goodrum 70 spots ahead of adp cuz of you.
Trout makes every team look better: not this time.
My team stinks!
NFBC–you’re up Frank
@Gigorilla:
Thanks. How’s your team?
yeah, anytime i have to draft against razzballers, my team’s average age goes up a couple years since everyone likes the young/sexy players.
@Rudy Gamble:
I should have just mailed my entry fee to you directly
Haha
@frankgrimes: Haha, were you disappointed you couldn’t get him 65 spots ahead of ADP?
Haha
@The Great Knoche:
Haha no
Grey! Thank you for all of the write ups and insight for the new season. Haven’t commented yet for advice, so wanted to say thank you first and foremost. Question…
My league is unfortunately now only an 8 team league (down from 15 last year). How would you adjust your draft for a 5×5 roto mixed league in this insanely tiny league ( besides of course, “go to another league” kind of advice). Roster sizes are 30 players. I hate to draft a ton of early bats like I usually do and then play upside pitching, because there are SO many good bats. Any thoughts are appreciated.
No problem! I could see grabbing a top ten SP in a crazy shallow league, but I’d go heavy bats and figure out pitching later on
@Grey: Thanks! I love Bauer and want him everywhere as well as Corbin. After those guys ( or one of them ) I will most likely wait on pitching. Is it crazy to go Turner, Baez, Rendon and then Mondesi? Also, did you do the Yahoo post of ADP discrepancy against Razz ranks? Thank you again for the write ups.
Grey,
I know you said you aren’t moving Folty down yet in your rankings… However, I have to make a decision today as to whether or not to keep him at $10 for 2019. He would be eligible to be kept in 2020 at $13. 12 team league 5-10 keepers per year. Keep him or drop his injured ass?
Thanks!
He’s worth $10 gamble, I would not keep him for more than one year
@Grey: Thanks. Here goes nothin!
No problem!
Hey Grey,
12 team keeper league h2h 5×5 OBP. I’m keeping Acuna and have one more spot for JD Martinez, Trea Turner, or Francisco Lindor. Which one do you suggest
Turner
Hey Grey, 12 team keeper league, h2h 5×5 obp. Just looking for a little keeper advice here. Which 3 of the following would you keep (I put the draft round cost for each)?
Mitch Haniger – 20th
David Dahl – 25th
Luis Severino – 26th
Blake Treinen – 15th
Matt Chapman – 23rd
Joey Lucchesi – 27th
Jose Berrios – 8th
thanks in advance!
Mitch Haniger – 20th
David Dahl – 25th
Luis Severino – 26th
Second base is tricky. Trixy if you please. Moose is a creative 2b gambit.
The regression fairies are headquartered at the Mike Fawltytowers home this year.
I haven’t drafted Folty once, the arm issues solidified it, unfortch…
Love Voit and Senzel, but wow you guys went early for them
@Grey:
Just picked Voit end 15th. Fingers crossed.
Think that was 4 rounds after Oaktown took him!
@Grey:
Hope it works out. Been too “risky”with my last few picks.
I have no shot vs Rudy tho!
I feel like my team is downright boring compared to some of these… I have JA Happ, I mean, bleh
@Grey:
ZzzzzzZzzzzz
@Grey:
Both were super early but It’s been a pretty sharp room. We liked Hampson a lot and he got jumped. The 2b and CI selection was getting pee pool shallow. Especially if you’re looking for options that won’t kill your average. We maybe could/should have waited but didn’t feel like the other options around we liked enough to justify missing out on players we wanted. Voit would not have comeback and Senzel is sexy enough me might not have either. Hate playing adp chicken. If they do what we want them too it’s a win where we drafted them.
@OaktownSteve:
That said, we talked about the Voit pick for a long time.
@OaktownSteve:
looks like we have some players in common
I grabbed Luzardo too for some (hopeful) fun watching late night west coast baseball
Is he breaking camp with the team?
@Grey:
I DUUNO! With my luck no….
Haha, yeah I’m not sure
@Grey:
No. I’d be a little careful with the IP projection for him. The A’s may let the herd of Mengdens and Bassitts and Estradas thin a bit first. It’ll either be mid-April or mid-June
I’m guessing June/July
Yeah, I hate ADP chicken too, those felt early tho, like stood out as so… But I like both guys a lot, so I can’t argue too much on them
@Grey:
Senzel was crazy early. He’s player we really wanted. Seen him creeping up and after missing Hampson didn’t want to miss. If he’s a .290 25 steal guy with 600 PAs then we’re good.
Voit’s min pick is 90 and his adp is 180. Our next pick is 159 and there were 3 teams without 1B picking in between. That’s how we made that call.
I guess on Voit, Senzel would’ve been there in another 3 rounds, my guess at least…
@Grey:
In this case don’t care. Obviously you don’t want to overdraft every player, but there are times when you want a guy, he’s a fit, sets up the later part of your draft, so you get him. There’s like a 1-2 dollar difference between round 9 and 11.
Hampson went 70 picks early. Domingo just went 100 picks early. This draft looks really aggressive. That was our read.
@OaktownSteve:
anyone reading greys latest post or some comments and guys gets drafted right after haha
Why you bow out of FCL?
@frankgrimes:
I’m too old
Yeah, I can see it in this draft, there’s gonna be a ton of late SPs bc everyone’s reaching in and grabbing my darlings… Couldn’t believe Domingo wen that early, I should’ve never mentioned him the other day
@Grey:
If I’d kept my mouth shut about Yelich last year I might have won this league. You drafted him two spots ahead of me.
I do feel for you in this one this year though. It’s Acolytapalooza
It is more so this year, right?
@OaktownSteve:
Big time
IshkabibbleSteve?
@Grey:
Prolly just the timing of it all
Gray DOG,
Pick 3 keepers. I lose the round i drafted them in.
Arenado (round 1)
Harper (round 2)
G Cole (round 4)
Jt Realmulto (round 14)
Al Mondesi( ROund 15)
Arenado (round 1)
Harper (round 2)
G Cole (round 4)
Assuming fairly shallow league
10 team 3 player keeper. pick 3. THANK YOU!
Trevor Baur
Garett Cole
Mondesi
Marte
Bryce Harper
Realmulto
Eddie Rosario
Arenado
Just did above
Hi Grey, I’m in a 10-team 5×5 roto NL-only, $280 budget, up to five keepers. Definitely keeping Trea Turner for $22, have four more to go from these five:
David Peralta for 15, Pete Alonso for 8, Mike Foltyniewicz for 8, Archie Bradley for 7, Nick Pivetta for 6.
Thanks for any help/insight.
Just draft Alonso back
I believe the guy that will be hitting 3 for the Rays and that is being completely overlooked is Ji man Choi.
He’s such a platoon guy
Hey Grey!
Do you like the Bregman side in any of these keeper trades? If you like Bregman side in more than one, which is your fav? 6×6 H2H where OBP and OPS are categories instead of AVG.
1. $4 Vlad and either $9 Nola or $5 Buehler for $16 Bregman (and I can keep $11 Benintendi)
2. $8 Bellinger and $4 Vlad for same return
3. Bellinger and Nola or Buehler for same return
Thanks!
Not especially, they are fair tho
@Grey: thanks!
No problem
Hey Grey, I am fairly positive you are not super hot on Carlos Correa….. But I am curious about what you think about a trade for him with giving up Andrelton Simmons and Dave Robertson….. while i pick up another decent enough RP (plenty out there in my holds and saves points league)
Many metrics tell me to do this. This trade partner has a serious love for dave robertson. Just looking to get another opinion
That trade is a slam dunk for Correa
Need some halps:
6 X 6 10 team OPS league. Dynasty keep forever plus 5 MiLB prospects.
Trade my Alex Bregman and Alex Kiriloff for his Carlos Correa and Kris Bryant
My keepers before the trade are
Rizzo
Merrifield
Bregman
Trea
Puig
Eddie Rosario
George Springer
Joey Votto
So I’d have Bryant replace Bregs and probably have Correa replace Rosario.
I’m torn on this one a lot. Thank you!
@Cory: Sorry I left out 2 keepers. Not sure it matters:
Rhys
Aaron Nola
Meh
@Grey: Kind of a wash? Seems like I would need Bryant and Correa to be healthy to have a chance of winning the trade.
Yeah, meh
With Strahm likely bring needed in bullpen Paddack could be sneaky great source of Ks in deep leagues. He was filthy today. 14Ks In 8.2 spring innings so far.
Does Paddack have a rotation spot?
@Grey: Not yet, but if they want to compete now which I think the Machado thing signifies I can’t imagine he doesn’t replace Mitchell or Perdomo right away. Strahm could be wild card, as they only have Loup as a lefty in the pen. If Strahm is in pen I could see it right away.
I need it to happen now, Knoche
@Grey: I’ll see if I can pull some strings with Ron Fowler, he’s in the beer industry like me and let you know.
Where do you own him already?
Just one league, TCBY
@Grey:
Big Ol Fantasy Jerk Off
Yup!
@Grey: Wanna guess who first player off the board this morning was?
Haha, Joey Wendle?
I know it’s called a slow draft, but it really seems to be crawling along at times. I’m enjoying this format though. How do you like your squad so far?
How do YOU like my squad? My team is boring AF… Big time eh-eff… I’m about to tip the apple cart tho with the next pick, then it’s on like donkey kong on the back seat while ping pong… Or it might be irrelevant… I have arguably best young SP, best young RP, best power bat, best SS, best 3B and a top 5 1B… Yeah, team’s ok
@Grey: Sounds like someone’s hittin happy hour a bit early! I felt your pain when Lucchesi went off the board. I like some of your guys. Stanton, Buehler, Leclerc. Solid. Happ seems like a very un-Grey player. Older, high floor. I like the pick though.
We’ve had pretty similar strategies. Build an offensive foundation and sprinkle in a few arms in the early rounds. We like the mid-late round arms much more than the bats, so we wanted to get some good hitters early. Went a bit high on Senzel (I pushed there) and Voit (OTS), but we like them and thought they fit our roster the best.
I think I know who you have queued up next, though I predicted Buehler a round earlier and thought you’d go Robles in the 5th, so maybe not…
I really wanted Robles, figured he’d be there right after the turn in 4 picks, was most bummed with that… I have Robles II queued up tho!
@Grey: We were looking at Buxton. Just too many red flags. I think it’s a bluff. I know who you really have queued up. Nice try!
Meh, wouldn’t be Buxton… I’ve gone down that path before, not this year unless he really falls
@Grey: You weren’t bluffing. Just guessed the wrong guy. I like Laureano. Has 20/20 skills. Good spot for him.
Laureano is a breakout player, Magoo… Keep your eyes on my team, giving free lessons!
@Grey: I’ve got my notebook and invisible ink pen at the ready
Haha, very smart, don’t let anyone see those notes!
@Grey:
I did NOT realize age was a category! Effing fine print.
You need to read the rules and regs
@OaktownSteve: @Grey: This is a dynasty league, right?
We can play it out over 25 years if you guys want… Higher stakes!
Grey,
Was thinking about a move I will hae to make soon and wanted your opinion. If deciding between Niko Goodrum and Ramon Laureano for the last spot on my roster, who would you keep? My team is a little short on infielders and very deep on outfielders, if that matters.
Thanks, as always!
Laureano
@Grey:
Thanks bossman!
No problem
Would you keep Arenado at $54, C Seager at $10 or Grandal at $3in a 12 team roto auction?
Seager
Razzballers
Please give me your mustachioed guidance.
14 team 5 x5 roto
$260 auction 12 player keeper
My team
Trout $67
Machado $53
Phay$2
Severino$1 (Serious injury?)
Robbie ray $12
Clevinger $2
Murphy $ 14
Gleybar $3
Albies $2
Grandal $1
Doolittle $1
Urias $2
Austin Meadows $2
Altuve $72
Rizzo$ 33
Mad bum$33
Kueche $l 39
What are you asking? Who to keep?
Not Keuchel, Bum, Altuve, Urias, Ray
Hey Grey,
I went to your rankings and saw what you had added with Hampson. Was curious, though. HOw many spots did you move him up and what changes did you make to his projections now that he’s looking like he might get the 2B job in Colo?
I had him down in the tier of 2B I don’t think will be in the majors like Keston
@Grey:
Yeah, I don’t see Keston getting the call this year at all now. Brewers have squeezed him out for some more minor league seasoning.
Yeah, I agree, that’s why moved Hampson out of there
@Grey: Here is a projected team I’m looking at for my road to the 4-peat – standard 5×5 with OBP and Ks added for batters, and K/9 and Ls added to Pitchers. (An inexact science: Used Yahoo! rankings since I know I’ll be the last pick of the odd rounds)
C- Contreras – 14th round, pick 131 (if he goes way too early, i’m taking Alfaro around pick 170)
1B- Hoskins – 3rd round, pick 30
2B- Mondesi – 5th round, pick 50
3B- Bryant – 4th round, pick 31
SS- Lindor (Keeper)
OF- Betts (Keeper)
OF- Dahl – 8th round, pick 71
OF- Robles – 9th round, pick 90
UTIL- Shaw – 12th round, pick 111 (how is he ranked 150th)
SP- Flaherty – 6th round, pick 51
SP- Wheeler – 7th round, pick 70
SP- Marquez – 10th round, pick 91
SP- Glasnow – 13th round, pick 130
SP- Folty – 11th round, pick 110
SP- Heaney – 17th round, pick 170
RP- SAGNOF (looking at around pick 150-210 to start running on RPs)
Then for my last pick I usually roll with one of your high upside sleepers (i.e. Mikolas circa 2018)
Hey, long time no see! Love the pitching and hitting, only worry is Heaney and Folty have both had arm troubles in the spring… They both say they are fine, but you have to be careful with both…
@Grey: I was going off of your rankings and comments for pitchers you were in love with at that value – in light of the injuries – who are some guys I should target instead at around 110-150 overall range?
Oh I love everyone you have there, but I’m just saying right this second Folty and Heaney have arm concerns… Both seem fine, but too risky to do both… Go Glasnow instead of Folty or Heaney for right now (or someone else I have ranked in that range)
@Grey: gotcha thanks!
No problem
Keeper help! Must keep at least 1P, 1hitter, 3 total. Give up pick they were drafted in last year. Options:
Alex Bregman (give up 3rd round pick)
Juan Soto (give up 22nd round pick)
Rhys Hoskins (give up 10th round pick)
Adalberto Mondesi (give up 22nd round pick)
James Paxton (give up 6th round pick)
Jack Flahtery (give up 22nd round pick)
Thanks!
Flaherty, Mondesi, Soto
@Grey:
Even in an OBP league?
I didn’t come to follow up on my what are you vaping question. What types of juice are you getting into?
I just bought Mad H yesterday, was vaping strawberry milk by TVS and have a soft spot for guava anything… You?
@Grey: I haven’t found a good guava. I’ve been on this very clean Mango by California Grown called Napa Nectar. Very tasty and its a sub ohm nic salt which I’m learning may be a better form of nic
Yum, that does sound good… I’ll have to check what Guava I have when I go back in house… It’s decent
I hope you’re not too mad, but we had to do it
@Big Magoo: When did you start caring about Grey’s feelings?
@BJFOHOHL: Since always. I’m known for being a sensitive creature.
@Big Magoo: Ted Dibiase don’t care about nothing but money
@BJFOHOHL: Cash Rules Everything Around Me
@Big Magoo: Magoo is the money dolla dolla bill ya’ll
Who’s that? Posey? Have fun!
@Grey: Sorry again. You’ll be fine, I promise.
Haha
@Grey: @Big Magoo: Where’d you get Posey? Wanna see how bad I overpaid.
Can’t believe you guys are still drafting Posey
@Grey: Just wait until you take Deshizz in the 25th.
Needed to balance average out. Could come with 15HRs from catcher so yup I still am at pick 173.
I drafted DeShizz in the 8th, couldn’t miss out on him (kidding)
@Grey: haha. What round they draft Posey?
13th
Grey – what’s your thought on Aroldos Chapman this year?
In an AL only I can obtain Chapman at $29
I have to give up Kendrys morales at $13 and $1 Matt Boyd .
Do it?
I’d take Aroldis there, expensive price tho
@Grey: yeah, it’s a keeper league. I don’t have a closer and the best available in the draft are going to be Cody Allen, boxberger and mychal givens.
Better to hold on to what I have and go for one of them in the draft?
But everyone’s going after them, right? It’s fine for Aroldis if you don’t have a closer, assuming you have extra $ due to other keepers anyway
@Grey: Yea, i do have extra $. Just worried about Chappie losing a little velocity.
I’d hate to spend $25 or more on Cody Allen due to inflation when i could have Chapman for $29.
Right, so take Aroldis
Marquez adp just jumped up after today… bummertown.
Yup!
@Grey:
Had only one chance to pick so far today….
Palka/Alfaro 19/20th round
Nice! I’ve taken Laureano, Eovaldi, Skaggs, Mullins in the past two days
Maybe Jose Alvarado too, depending on my last update
@Grey:
RCL I jumped in yesterday morning. 3rd pick.
FYI Goodrum does Not qualify for OF on Fantrax.
Missed Domingo by one pick so I grabbed Allen in a “panic” haha.
C Sanchez
1B Olson
2B odor
3B Suarez
SS Trea
MI Wendle
CI Moustakas
OF Benintendi
OF Dahl
OF Robles
OF Laureano
OF Mullins
U Goodrum
BN Didi McNeil
SP Verlander Bieber Lucchesi Kikuchi
RP Vazquez Yates Allen Betances Colome Romo
Like this team, Verlander didn’t seem to hurt you too much, a bit low on power, yeah? I love the OF tho… Allen might’ve been panic, but I think you could use him
@Grey:
Agreed. Team is a Rudy/grey blend almost to perfection haha. I’ve been stalking Rudy lately.
Nice!
Can I draft on my phone on fantrax?
Sure
@Grey:
I hate thus site. It’s total garbage. Please go somewhere else in the future.
Sorry, moms
@Mommy Issues: @Mommy Issues:
But you can make multi-team trades now!
Haha
Hey Grey and all Perts who care. I just got offered Trout and Julio Urias for Bregman and Trevor Bauer ….
I don’t take this , correct?
@johnnyhobbes: currently I have Matt Olson, j Baez, a Bregman, andrelton Simmons, benintendi, m ozuna, Dahl, Meadows, bauers and laureano
Arms are Bauer, taillon, flaherty, g Marquez, Bieber, leclerc, Robertson,
and on bench lucchessi, skaggs, Alex Reyes, Jesus luzardo, and Garret Hampton
It’s points league that also counts as. Points leguesare pitchers paradise but I flummoxed with this one.
@johnnyhobbes: Rest of your arms are enough. Get Trout.
@The Great Knoche: thanks knoche, I’m looking forward to my first rcl league this season with you in it. I might get smoked but I’ll learn a few things . I didn’t see the RPs going that soon. I’m going to hurting in saves
@johnnyhobbes: Yeah RCLs can have early closer runs. Be active on waiver wire when someone gets hurt or demoted.
Sounds fair, I’d prolly take Trout
@Grey: thanks, for both the help … I asked for matz instead. Not too sure about how much playing time urias will have this year. It’s a redraft league. Turning matz plus skaggs and Andrelton Simmons into Xander bogearts
Gotcha, that’s better
Do you think Vlad’s oblique injury drastically alters his ETA?
I have him for $4 in a keep forever (12 teams)…he was going to be one of my guys, but wondering if I should let him go in favor of $11 Benintendi or $9 Nola now…
(Here’s my full list of 6 guys for the 5 keeper spots)
$8 Rhys
$8 Bellinger
$11 Benintendi
$9 Nola
$5 Walker
$4 Vladito
@Duda Want to Build a Snowman?: I should add the league is obp and ops (not avg) and tracks QS as well as wins…
Nah, it’s a phony injury to send him down… We all knew he wasn’t up for at least 3 weeks
@Grey: thanks! Scoundrels!
Haha
Grey,
Give up Wheeler for his Eddie Rosario?
keep 11, my other keeper pitchers are Lucchessi and Castillo but got lots of first round picks
leaning Hell yeah
That works for me
In a twelve team mixed league, no ci mi slots , three utility slots…. Should Joey Wendle be on waivers ? I will be opening up a slot in a trade coming my way. He’s a no doubt pick up right?
Nah, pick him up
Keep Bregman for a 3rd round pick or Mondesi for a last round pick in OBP league
Mondesi
This might go with out saying, but would you take Baez if available in the 2nd round after taking Yelich or Acuña in the 1st?
Yup
Things may change in a week, but how do you rank these three for my first pick off the board: Lindor, Harper, Story.
Need your help. How would you go about making a shallow league more competitive? My local league we have had going for 14 years just lost 2 owners, so now we are scrambling on a way to adapt. There seems to be resistance to my suggestion to make it a AL or NL only. It’s a standard Yahoo league, so on the hitting side we can just add CI, MI, etc. How would you achieve the same goal on the pitching side, inning/start cap? SV+ HLD? Thanks!
Can do Saves and Holds as 2 separate, don’t do SVs+HLDs as one… You should have 5 OFs… 2 UTILs, MI and CI… Can add QS… And make it 1200 or 1400 IP cap, so you force people to have better pitching
Has the pitching pairing tool come out yet?
Keeper deadline at midnight, so lots of offers coming in! Which side do you like in a roto keep 7 forever?
$16 JDM (and losing your $4 Matt Chapman to free agency)
Or
$24 Harper and $24 Freeman?
Thanks!
@Duda Want to Build a Snowman?: in terms of pure net value using the top 500, seems like Bryce and freeman are +13 net and holding jdm and Chapman would be +22 net…
Bryce side
Other offer he made is $3 Walker Buehler + Harper for my $16 JDM (letting Chapman go to FA)…Harper/Buehler side on that one right?
Walker and Harper is very good too, depends on keepers, obvi better than Freeman if you wanna save $
@Grey: thanks! There are very few top 20 pitchers that will be available in the draft and they all go for 25-39 (like Clevinger could go for 29), so some savings there is helpful. Yeah, my other keepers are all bats, including some expensive (but below market price) guys like 31 betts 26 acuna and 21 Rhys…so my 16 JDM and 4 Chapman would have helped balance that out.
Seems Walker is decent play then
Oof, now he’s changed his mind, holding at $24 Freeman + $3 Buehler for my $16 JDM (losing $4 Chapman). That feels like less of a win for me…. are you still on the freeman/walker side there + is it close for you?