Our 2020 Razzball leagues are in signup mode. Robot in Signup Mode, “I am entering contest to win Razzball t-shirt even though I’ve never seen a robot wear a shirt. Starting….” The Robot begins to peter out, “…New…Fad.” Oh no, the Razzball Robot has died! *screaming to heavens* What hath you forsaken me?! Heavens, “Focus on the ESPN rankings, you moron.” Wow, the heavens do not take well to histrionics. So, this year’s ESPN rankings are a tad goofier than I remember them, but maybe I just got smarter — Smarterened? Smartered? Became the smarts? Meh, I don’t know. What I do know is ESPN has Tim Anderson ranked 143rd overall and that made me cackle like a hyena for so long a group of white-jacketed asylum workers showed up at my house and tried to cart me away. Me singing to the tune of Pharcyde, “Can’t keep gettin’ carted awaaaaaaaaaay…Can’t keep gettin’ carted awaaaaaaaaaay…Can’t keep gettin’ carted awaaaaaaaaaay…” Any hoo! I’m clutchin’ my pearls like a Barbara Bush hologram and about to take out some ‘perts! *slowly, menacingly sharpens index finger for more incisive typing* I’m about to cut up somebody with words! Now let’s open a window and defenestrate ESPN’s 2020 fantasy baseball rankings. To the tune of Major Tom, I call this Major Dumb:

Standings there alone, the fantasy ‘ship is waiting
All rankings systems are go, are you sure?
Control is not convinced
But the computer has the evidence
No need to abort

The ESPN’s ranking sharts

Watching in a trance, the ESPN crew is certain
Nothing left to chance, all is working
Trying to relax, up in the capsule
Joey Votto is ranked 149th,” jokes Major Dumb
The count goes on

Four, three, two, one
They have Josh Bell above everyone
Drifting, falling
Floating, weightless
Calling, calling Dumb

There’s so many straight whothunkits in ESPN’s rankings, I don’t even know where to begin. Let’s focus in on the top 20 1st basemen — aperture out; Instagram blur filter in; Wonder Twins activate in the form of a bust. *sees a Dolly Parton chest begin to form* No, no, no! Not that kind of bust. ESPN has Josh Bell 41st overall, which is hilariously misguided. Sure, the Pirates have hitting behind Bell, um, Jacob Stallings, and Bell just had a 2nd half of:  25/10/32/.233/0 but why inject common sense into this? Last year on our Player Rater, Bell was 42nd overall — those finks are stealing our data! How’sever, Bell had a 28.4% HR/FB in the 1st half last year, and zoomed back to earth in the 2nd half with a HR/FB% close to his career norm. Josh Bell will be drifting, falling…floating, weightless…calling, calling Dumb.

Then, take a gander at Joey Votto. Above Yasmani Grandal. No, the Fantasy Master Lothario isn’t a fan of drafting catchers high, but can you honestly imagine a scenario where Votto out-produces Grandal? Is it possible to twist your medulla oblongata enough to even imagine this? Are you demented enough to conjure this scenario in your brain?! Are you?! I’m not. More power to you if you are. Your melon just might be seedless, though. Want a good crack up? They have Yandy Diaz above Danny Santana. Why? I’m guessing for s’s and g’s. As I figured months ago, my Christian Walker sleeper is still making a ton of sense, since (almost stutterer!) they ranked him after…wait for it…oh, this is good…are you still there?…I promise you’re gonna love this…Walker is below Eric Hosmer! Hosmer, and his 56% ground ball rate, wouldn’t even rank himself above Walker! I need to move on, because I am forming an ulcer.

Second base is yuck, we’re now in orbit
Stabilizers up, ESPN thinks Merrifield runs perfect
Starting to collect requested data
“What will it effect, when is Altuve done?”
Thinks Major Dumb.

In my top 20 2nd basemen, I have Keston Hiura above Merrifield, as any rational fantasy baseball ‘pert would. It should not surprise you that ESPN does not. Know why? Same reason as last year and year before and year before that, in perpetuity. They rank for what they think you want to see. Here’s how ESPN thinks:  Players that are known commodities they rank high. They rank to avoid the least amount of waves. Case in point, I told you to draft Acuña 4th overall last year, they told you 18th overall. This year, they have Acuña ranked 2nd overall. As more people found out about Acuña, they moved him up. Last year, they ranked Adalberto Mondesi 106th overall (me: 20); Flaherty 83rd (55); Muncy 165th overall (71); Shane Bieber at 203rd (115) and they were high on Jo-Ram, Altuve, Severino, Syndergaard, Votto, Posey–If someone is a known commodity, they inflate their value. This year, they’re higher on Acuña, Muncy, Flaherty, Mondesi, Bieber and lower on the others (though, still too high on some of them). What changed?  The general public’s feelings shifted on these players. They regurgitate to you what you want to see if you’re the type to start your research the morning of your draft.

Back at ground control there is a problem
Look at starters, not responding
“Hello Major Dumb, are you receiving?
Turn the thrusters on to draft an ace, we’re standing by.”
There’s no reply
Four, three, two, one
Luke Weaver below everyone
Drifting, falling
Floating, weightless
Calling, calling Dumb.

In their top 300, they have Luke Weaver ranked 300th. I will now list a few starters they have above him:  Marco Gonzales, Wade Miley, Jeff Samardzija, Domingo German (who has to serve an 80-game suspension — you can’t even make this shizz up), Reynaldo Lopez–Whoa, whoa, WHOA! They have Reynaldo Lopez ranked above a ton of guys since they have him ranked in the top 240 overall, and they have an arrow pointing up by his name. I wonder if gravity works backwards in Bristol. Let’s take me out of the equation, they have Reynaldo Lopez ranked above Julio Urias. On Rudy’s auction rankings, he has Urias as the 64th pitcher off the board and Reynaldo as the 83rd, an overall difference of about 70 spots, and I think that’s optimistic on Reynaldo! Moving on while I still have a few gaskets which haven’t yet blown. ESPN has Lucas Giolito 22nd overall starter, and below Shohei Ohtani. Even if you are an Ohstani, that’s almost as ludicrous as Ludacris’s acting career. Actually, oh and this is really rich, they have Severino and Ohtani above Giolito. Two guys who combined for 12 IP last year and Giolito, who was the 13th best starter last year. *weighing on hands* 12 innings total…13th best starter…Yup, about even. *steams wrinkles out of shirt from steam coming out of my ears*

On a less-Major Dumb tip, here’s a chart of the biggest values from ESPN to me (Thank you!) and the players that ESPN overrates (No thank you!). A small note, since I did this chart a few days ago, ESPN has already adjusted their rankings, so some of these might be a little off, but it goes to show you the influence I’m having on them.  They so shook, y’all!

THANK YOU

Player Grey’s Ranking ESPN’s Ranking Overall Difference
Trevor Story 5 15 10
Fernando Tatis Jr. 10 43 33
Jose Ramirez
11 22 11
Pete Alonso
15 30 15
Adalberto Mondesi 20 76 56
Matt Olson 21 63 42
Keston Hiura
43 83 40
Lucas Giolito
46 101 55
Chris Paddack 53 82 29
Jorge Soler 54 94 40
Max Muncy 57 100 43
Yu Darvish 59 122 63
Ramon Laureano
62 99 37
Tim Anderson 66 143 77
Sonny Gray
68 159 91
Jose Berrios 81 135 54
Oscar Mercado
86 152 66
Luis Robert
87 113 26
Brandon Woodruff 102 153 51
Dinelson Lamet 103 198 95
Hyun-Jin Ryu
107 144 37
Zac Gallen
110 175 65
Jake Odorizzi
113 286 173
Hunter Dozier 130 222 92
Scott Kingery 136 189 63
Danny Santana 140 205 65
Marcus Stroman 151 unranked
J.D. Davis
152 259 107
Jo Adell 197 unranked
Joe Musgrove 205 unranked

NO THANK YOU

Player Grey’s Ranking ESPN’s Ranking Overall Difference
Gerrit Cole 17 7 10
Alex Bregman 16 9 7
Jose Altuve 30 21 9
Aaron Judge
37 23 14
Charlie Blackmon 71 24 47
Chris Sale
74 35 39
Giancarlo Stanton 72 36 36
Kris Bryant
83 39 44
Josh Bell
98 41 57
Joey Gallo
84 45 39
Paul Goldschmidt
76 50 26
Nicholas Castellanos 91 59 32
Tommy Pham
85 61 24
Andrew Benintendi 115 66 49
Carlos Correa
147 67 80
Whit Merrifield 94 72 22
Shohei Ohtani 125 92 33
Will Smith (RP) 225 98 127
Lorenzo Cain
267 106 161
Jean Segura 215 129 86
Justin Upton 272 139 133
Joey Votto 386 149 237
207 Comments
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Troy Pfuntner
Troy Pfuntner
3 years ago

For those of us that “follow” Razzball and draft on ESPN, I want to say , SHUT UP!!! I have GREAT drafts due to the fact none of my fellow players follow RAZZBALL! If you influence ESPN to change their rankings, I Don’t get such an awesome team! I like having great players ranked bad. STOP IT! HAHA. I hate level playing fields.

Matty
Matty
3 years ago

Hey Grey
What are your initial thoughts on the Yahoo Rankings?
Yours are better!
Are they bad enough you will be writing an article?
In Grey I trust !

One other quick question long term prospect dynasty league- CJ Abrams or Julio Rodriguez

kelly leak
kelly leak
3 years ago

I like your Betts ranking. 27 years old, new team, he wants to get paid… but what do I know, I just got let out of Juvie and wrecked my Harley. Took Acuña #4 last year so In Grey I Trust.

AL KOHOLIC
AL KOHOLIC
3 years ago

Grey ole buddy. Hey buying you add free deal now and It says discount code. Are we supposed to enter one or is that just for different circumstances. Thanks again looking forward to it???

Earl
Earl
3 years ago

Not sure if any of you guys are still around?

Man amazing that so many starting pitchers have been taken in 2nd and 3rd round of draft I am doing.

I have Arenado and Turner for my 1st 2 picks.

Remaining starters for me at my next pick (35 and 38) might be Snell, Gioloto, Corbin, Castillo and Paddack (in Grey’s ranked order).

Would you guys be comfortable with any of them (in this order) as your SP1? Feel like if I wait to our 5th round (pick 59) that might be too late and they might all be gone.

Also, I think Grey has Pete Alonso and Matt Olson pretty close in rankings and projected stats. do people see either being that much better than the other. Loved Alonso last year and wondering if he will repeat this year.

Might take one of these two for 1b along with SP with picks 35 and 38.

Thanks

Al KOHOLIC
Al KOHOLIC
Reply to  Earl
3 years ago

I’d want one of those pitchers myself and Alonso

MrBaseball
MrBaseball
3 years ago

SOME DUDE WANTS Dahl – he wants to send me Dustin May – its a keeper league – I see you think and eat baseball everyday – both young players

183414
183414
3 years ago

Assuming they’re both available @7th pick: Betts/Mondesi v. Story/Albies.

183414
183414
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Thanks Grey Man !

183414
183414
3 years ago

Follow up question above. Thanks Grey.

hitzone
hitzone
3 years ago

16 team pts league dynasty

A BB is 1 pt same as a hit

Hold chance disco for upside or grab Roberto Perez?
C ?s already

baby seal
baby seal
3 years ago

You probably post this rag every year — but you totally took this idea from me!! See the influence the baby seal has on you!

Oh, snap. Before I forget! The important stuff first. Fell down a Razzball rabbit hole yesterday. I saw Donkey’s Twitter and Razzslam post. Clicked on it (signed up, again, but that’s not important now). Then saw that lovely hyperlink to your infamous Canseco interview. Listened to about half of it. LOL, nice job man. WTF, that was hilarious.

Then I saw your Matthew Berry “interview” and the subsequent Deadspin articles and what not. Another LOL / WTF post. You really had more chutzpah back in the day! Make Grey Great Again!

Draft update (yes, it’s still going on!) …

As you know, these things take forever. We’re only in round 33 here.

Not sure how much you recall the team from before, but we left off w/ me taking Lugo, Akiyama, then your lovely Hirano suggestion. I can post the squad again, but I doubt you want that.

Since then–starting in round 23:
– Plesac (makes him my first depth arm)
– Barnhart (C1)
– Jason Castro (C2)
– Wade Miley
– Matt Manning
– Spencer Turnbull
– Chance Sisco (C3 — see I did it, Grey!)
– Markakis
– Isan Diaz
– Colin Moran

I’m assuming it’s smart to keep trying to fill depth w/ people who actually play ~ every day. Depth seems like a major issue for everyone here. “It’s a war of attrition,” they say! Those players are nearly dried up now, though. Some people have been pounding middle relievers / “talented setup men” hard. Think I may swing at a couple soonish. But have taken your advice not to go too crazy there.

Let me know if you have any general thoughts, weaknesses, whatever. Should I start pounding some more prospect types soon? Manning is my only real prospect.

I’m on the clock right now actually. Just took Moreland! Woohoo this is so fun!!

Urena is available, Brian Goodwin? (idk), Candelario (HELP ME), Bote (AHHHH), Kuch (NOOOOOO!!!!! (but maybe eventually, haha)), Buttrey / May (this seems OK eventually *shrugs*), Maldonado (when do u get a 4th C??), Kelenic (is he seeing the field this year??) … I could go on, but I’m feeling generous. This post is only 2,300 words!

Damn, Kyle Wright just went. That’s what you say right before asking yourself, “how did this happen to me and where did it all go so wrong?” So very wrong, Grey.

baby seal
baby seal
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Haha, no! You need a “Best of Razzball” series/link. “The Razzball Hall of Fame” — founded by and featuring, yours truly, Grey.

JOSE!?!

I didn’t know about ya’ll back then. Only got back into fantasy the last few years. Never going back! Once you go …. never mind!

Ian Anderson is avail! Queued up.

Lol, it’s The Return of the King! *shudders*

So, exactly, you made my point! The guy w/ Hamels has a staff of: Bieber, Snell, Chapman, Luzardo, Giles, Keller, Hamels, Givens, J James, Beede, Sixto.

Let’s give benefit of the doubt Keller starts the year in the rotation, and Sixto does not. (By the way, the pitchers remaining are puke city.) There are 9 starting spots. This guy only has 9 dudes after 500 picks in the draft. What? IDK what this guy is thinking, or smoking.

James isn’t a starter really. Luzardo has an innings cap. Beede is your 4th starter, bro! LOL. My 4th is Maeda and I didn’t take any “top arms” like you. Sad!

183414
183414
3 years ago

Assuming Yordan and Albies are available @31, (and assume I’ve taken a s.s. and a s.p.), who do you take. I assume Yordan will qualify for o.f. by June. Love Albies upside, but also love Yordan’s.

183414
183414
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Last question (still have 1 hr. 40 minutes to pastime: If Betts and Story were available @7, my choice may well be Betts/Mondesi v. Story/Albies. Pretty interesting.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  183414
3 years ago

Some nice options there, Andrew!

Simps
Simps
3 years ago

All,

Looking for some help on the best site to order a draft board for a live draft.

Thanks in advance

DavidS
DavidS
3 years ago

Thanks Grey……14 team h2h, 5×5 with OBP replacing AVG, which 3 do I keep? Judge as a 5th rounder, Mondesi 10th, Laureano as a 15th, Alonso as a 16th or Vlad Jr as a 20th. Thanks

Crime Dog
Crime Dog
3 years ago

I’m sure you’ve covered this so apologies in advance if I’ve missed it. First time RCL’r. If you’re in a league that doesn’t fill up do you get put in another league that’s not full or you just don’t get in that league?

Who won last year?

Thanks!

ashtray
ashtray
3 years ago

I’m in a 14 team league where you can keep 6 guys forever. Does it make sense to keep Wander Franco knowing he’s going to be using up a roster spot all year long? The Fangraphs list showing Franco as their first ever 80 grade prospect has me thinking about it. It’s not much different from when I kept Stanton last year. Other options for my 6th keeper are Hoskins, Bryant, Lamet, Giolito, Woodruff, Severino.

NJW
NJW
3 years ago

This is great. Every year I trade my high draft picks at the deadline to compete and have much less to work with at draft time. And every year, because of Grey and the rest of the Razzball staff, I’m back in the hunt because you guys are able to point out major deficiencies like this in ESPN’s rankings.

This year, despite trading all my picks away, I’m still going to get Mondesi, Giolito, Olson, Muncy, Darvish, Mercado, etc and everyone is going to tell me “you’re going to finish last this year,” then they’ll wonder why I made the playoffs again.

Thanks again Grey!

NJW
NJW
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

No, thank you! Couldn’t do it without you!

183414
183414
3 years ago

Have 7th pick tonight. I see what you ranked Alonso, but I think I’d prefer Albies @31 (assuming I’ll get a s.s. in the 1st round), and hope that Olson is still there @55. Risky, yes, but on the down side, figure 1 of Rizzo, Abreu, Muncy will be there @79.
I try always looking ahead.
Thanks

183414
183414
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Thanks.

Scott Kimmel
Scott Kimmel
3 years ago

Grey,

The guy with Edwin Diaz wants to trade him for Frankie Montas, while I want to offer Hunter Dozier. Would you make either deal?

Scott Kimmel
Scott Kimmel
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

trade Montas for Diaz and take on the $18 difference in salary?

Scott Kimmel
Scott Kimmel
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

if i make the deal I would be $463 under the cap. But I am also trying to get Nate Anderson from TB?

Coolwhip
3 years ago

Remember when ESPN ranked Posey as a 3rd rounder? Pepperidge Farm remembers.

Coolwhip
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

might as well have been, seemed like it went on for like 4 years straight, after he “broke out” and had an OF3 kinda year.

Duda Want to Build a Snowman?
Duda Want to Build a Snowman?
3 years ago

How’s my ranking if the guys below in a keeper league?

$4 giolito
$9 Robles
$3 woodruff
$16 bieber

Thanks!

Duda Want to Build a Snowman?
Duda Want to Build a Snowman?
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Thanks – makes a lot of sense, plenty on the wire…

Mike Adamson
Mike Adamson
3 years ago

Well, OTOH, water is still wet and OTOH, Major Tom has always been a criminally underrated song. So thanks for this.

Swaggerjackers
Swaggerjackers
3 years ago

Love this post every season but wish you’d do it a month from now. ESPN changes their rankings as the weeks go by and some guys you’re noting as values won’t be by the time most drafts are happening. I usually end up making my own list of names using this format a few days before my draft. Would it be worth me sharing it in the comments this season?

Jolt In Flow
Jolt In Flow
3 years ago

Grey, off topic questions. How many fantasy baseball leagues teams do you manage each year?

Just seems like you have your hand in at least 20 of them.

DT, if you’re reading this, same question for you.

Thanks.

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Jolt In Flow
3 years ago

15-20 usually. Trying to scale back this year but doubt it happens.

eballs
eballs
3 years ago

True or False

You’re not drafting your 1st Reliever until about the 10th/11th Round (120th overall)

NUX
NUX
Reply to  eballs
3 years ago

True for me for sure

Cliff
Cliff
3 years ago

You can abuse the ESPN rankings so badly that with a mid-late pick I’ve been able to get Lindor, Story, JRam, FTJ, Olsen, and Mondesi before getting a pitcher.

Assuming you’re still able to get FTJ, Olson, Mondesi from rounds 4-6, would you splurg on a top pitcher in round 3 like Flahtery or just keep adding bats?

Ryan
Ryan
3 years ago

In a 14 team h2h, who do you want more? Tatis or Soto?

kelly leak
kelly leak
3 years ago

Great write up!
Always at least a couple guys in ESPN leagues that follow these. It’s like playing old dudes in air hockey at the arcade.

Matt
Matt
3 years ago

Hey Grey,

16 team 5×5 H2H allowed to keep 5 veterans and 2 rookies.

I’m keeping Soto, Judge, Hiura, Machado, Correa, Luzardo and Eloy.

Just got offered Giolito for Eloy straight up. Im thinking this is a no brainer and I have to pull the trigger to get an Gio. Thoughts?

The Great Knoche
3 years ago

The ESPN ranking Sharts.

I will sing that now every time I hear this song. So did it take a few minutes to come up with this idea and then hours of listening to Major Tom for the new song lyrics? Tell the truth, you’ve been writing this since November and just waiting to compare the rankings right?

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
3 years ago

Klara… Bell? Are you really surprised? But man, looks like they just forgot about Odorizzi and scribbled him in at the last minute. That’s the only way I can rationalize that one.

Starting to get concerned about Mercado. Domingo’s on board (as long as his elbow checks out – don’t know if the deal’s been finalized yet), and DeShields is lurking. Reyes should see everyday ABs at the other corner. Could see him losing some playing time.

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Big Magoo
3 years ago

Agree, that Indian’s outfield is shaping up to be a headache.

Earl
Earl
Reply to  Donkey Teeth
3 years ago

Agree with you all about Mercado.

I was thinking of targetting him for some speed but not sure about playing time now.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Did Francona or the Cleveland front office say that? I hadn’t seen

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

DeShields has played the vast majority of his career in CF and has graded out as a plus defender. Better than Mercado last season too. I’d prefer not to make those types of playing time assumptions, especially with a top 100 pick.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

I like Mercado too. Just reading the tea leaves. I think you’re underestimating the risk factor if you still assume that he’s locked in for 600+ PA.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Allen isn’t a risk. He’s positional depth. But DeShields is a superior defender, and Reyes/Santana look like regulars. They traded for Bauers and are unlikely to completely give up on him so quickly. All of a sudden, 650 PA turns into 450 for Mercado. I can see that being a possibility. Not a death knell in daily formats, but tough to use regularly in weekly ones.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Yeah, we’ll have to disagree. He’s a higher floor, lower ceiling version of Hampson for me now. I’d put him in that risk bin.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Similar risk when factoring in cost. Hampson is much cheaper, and has a higher ceiling. I’d rather take a chance on him 80-100 picks later.

And Wade Davis is a case in point. Who thought he’d still be closing? DeShields can’t possibly be a threat, right?

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

The Davis announcement is indicative of two things:

1. Confirmation, yet again, that Bud Black is an idiot.

2. The decision-making/interests of real life MLB clubs don’t always align with us fantasy folks. And smart/successful organizations aren’t excluded.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

I know my offseason patience has run out when I’m arguing against a player that I like. Hope I’m wrong, but I’ll probably just avoid this mess and bump Robert up a bit.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Yeah, Luis Robert. I like Robles too, but would probably opt for Robert if forced to choose. Higher ceiling.

Andrew edenbaum
Andrew edenbaum
Reply to  Big Magoo
3 years ago

Reyes is an awful right fielder. Watched him up lose all last year.

Big Magoo
Big Magoo
Reply to  Andrew edenbaum
3 years ago

Agreed. They could still use him out there though. Bauers too.

Matty
Matty
3 years ago

Dang- Matt, MattH, and now Matty- we had really uncreative parents and it’s trickled down.

Thanks for this one. I love the rankings (and this wouldn’t be possible without them), but I feel like this post and the same for Yahoo are the most informative ones each year for all of my drafts except RCL. It helps to narrow down which guys to target and expect to own. Looking forward to a team built around FTJ, Adalberto, and Olson.

MattH
MattH
3 years ago

Could you imagine Tatis Jr. sitting there in the middle of the 3rd round. Ya, me either.

Matt
Matt
3 years ago

Keeper question.
NL-only auction ($260), 7 team, standard 5×5 roto.
Strategy that has worked last 2 yrs: dominate hitting, focus on sv/era/whip (3-4 SP, 2-3 CL, 2-3 elite MR for $1). I try to spend about $200-210 on hitting and $50-60 on pitching. I find breakthrough FA pitchers more common than FA bats.

Here are my current keepers:
1B Freeman $36
2B Hiura $10
SS Tatis $10
3B or MI Machado $15
OF Yelich $39
OF Soto $15
SP Corbin $15
SP Flaherty $15
RP Hader $6

One more keeper to choose:
Blackmon $31, Eaton $11, Senzel $1, Yates $15, Gallen $10

Blackmon was initially at the bottom of my list (was leaning Yates or Gallen), but I project the top bats in the draft to be:
Goldschmidt, Bryant, Segura, Villar, Eaton, Conforto, McCutchen, Braun, Seager, Hosmer

A few owners will have $ for bats, so the above will go at inflated prices. I will have the least $ available which means I can’t outbid inflation. Should I just keep Blackmon? Blackmon for $31 is not ideal but I don’t think I could reinvest that money any better. Won’t have a ton of money left, but I normally go for 3-4 $1 players to churn that part of the roster.

Is that crazy? Who would you keep?

Thank you as always!

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Matt
3 years ago

Not crazy when you lay it out like that. If you think Blackmon goes for quite a bit more at auction, then keep him. None of the others are must keep at their prices.

It’s always tricky when inflation comes into play in auction keepers…

Jake
Jake
3 years ago

Drew Waters and Sixto Sanchez for Keston Hiuria in a NL only where there’s 3 more years left to keep Hiuria. Which side do you like?

Malicious Phenoms
Malicious Phenoms
Reply to  Jake
3 years ago

I’d want this guy:

Keston Hiuria

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Jake
3 years ago

Hiura

CT
CT
3 years ago

Grey!

If you have any gaskets left, I have a keeper question for you.

12 team, mixed roto league. I am allowed to keep up to two players, one from the first half of last years draft and one from the 2nd half (and then I have to give up those picks this year). Also, I can only keep up to one hitter and one pitcher. Confused yet? My options are:

Clevinger (6th round price)/Lux (17th round) or
Olbombson (10th round price)/Maeda(13th)

I was leaning Clevinger/Lux all offseason but then your rankings started coming out, and you wrote a sleeper post for Maeda, and now I’m flustered. Any thoughts on which way you’d go here?

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  CT
3 years ago

Tough call, they’re both great options. I lean Clevinger/Lux also but no strong conviction.

Grey loves Olson so pretty sure he’ll go that direction…

The Great Knoche
Reply to  CT
3 years ago

I’d want Olson/Maeda, especially now with Maeda pitching in a crappy division and having a job for whole year.

Tom
Tom
Reply to  The Great Knoche
3 years ago

I’m out on Olson and Maeda, especially Olson at his current adp, 30 hrs. .255 avg from Olson in round 4-5 meh, no thanks. I don’t think going to Minny helps Maeda whatsoever.

The Great Knoche
Reply to  Tom
3 years ago

.270 50HR potential in round 4-5. That’s gold. You be out, I’ll take him.

Tom
Tom
Reply to  The Great Knoche
3 years ago

Seems like a pipe dream, good luck.

CT
CT
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Thanks Grey et al! It is much appreciated as always

I guess I’ll flip a coin to decide.

scott
scott
3 years ago

Projections Grey picks Eddie Rosario before Jose Ramirez

Eddie: 579 ab, 94 r, 31 hr, 107 rbi, 4 sb, 0.281 avg
Jose: 574 ab, 89 r, 28 hr, 96 rbi, 27 sb, 0.263 avg

scott
scott
Reply to  scott
3 years ago

…and two seconds after I post I check to see if I had leftover scoring adjustments from last draft. Eddie is actually a little after Jose, so I’ll use Starling Marte instead.

Starling: 581 ab, 96 r, 22 hr, 86 rbi, 22 sb, 0.289 avg
Jose: 574 ab, 89 r, 28 hr, 96 rbi, 27 sb, 0.263 avg

sorry about that

A more fun example might be
Amed Rosario $10, 578 88 17 70 23 0.294
vs
Gleyber Torres $24, 551 88 32 95 5 0.264

scott
scott
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Not you, you’re “$ Grey”. I’m talking about “Projections Grey”. That guy values Rosario almost as highly as Jose Ramirez, and Amed Rosario with Gleyber. $Grey vs Projections Grey would be a fun topic to pursue if I weren’t such a muddled thinker.

Earl
Earl
3 years ago

I have a slow email 12 team roto draft starting today.

I have picks 11 and 14 to start.

Suppose I can hope either Story or Lindor fall to me at 11 but maybe that is wishful thinking.

Might have to select from Trea Turner, Juan Soto, Jose Ramirez, Arenado, Rendon, Freeman for the 2 picks. Really hoping that Story or Lindor fall to get some speed out of it as I typically do not like Turner just for speed. If I get one of those guys for speed then would like to take a thumper at 14 say Arenado, Rendon or Freeman.

I am intrigued with Soto as well but also concerned about how he will do in Nats lineup with Rendon gone and now he will be looked upon to be ‘the guy’ for Nats.

Any thoughts my fellow Razzers!
Thanks

The Great Knoche
Reply to  Earl
3 years ago

Turner/Soto sounds good. Turner/ Torenado sounds super juicy.

Turner has more than just speed.

Earl
Earl
Reply to  The Great Knoche
3 years ago

would u take Turner over Story or Lindor?

Just think one is giving up alot in the homer and RBI dept with Turner. TO me, he is a 3 category player in 5×5 roto. Wonder if the speed really makes up for that?

Thanks

The Great Knoche
Reply to  Earl
3 years ago

I’d want Story then Lindor.

Turner is only light on RBIs.

Earl
Earl
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Thought u might say that!

No concerns really with Turner or Soto; especially maybe Soto?

Thanks

Earl
Earl
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Got Arenado and Turner to start with.

Think that is good overall combo to build from.

LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood
LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood
3 years ago

I’m in a CBS leageu as well and i compare their ranking to razzball it helps to get an idea of what those who use scott whites rankings will draft. I have to say their rankings are never even close to razz.

Turd Wendell
Turd Wendell
Reply to  LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood
3 years ago

Dude, that was tremendous. I know ESPN is hot trash but this is borderline sabotage. The Giolito ranking is just disgrace. Guy was a horse last year. Appreciate you Grey, otherwise look at the “help” we get

Turd Wendell
Turd Wendell
Reply to  Turd Wendell
3 years ago

Sorry that was supposed to go in the general comments, Lenny.

LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood
LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood
Reply to  Turd Wendell
3 years ago

No prob

LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood
LennyDykstraIsJustMisunderstood
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

He has moved around to you way of thinking a little last year weighing hitters a littler more than he used to

Will
Will
3 years ago

Bud Black names Wade Davis the closer in Colorado over Oberg. As if you needed another indicator that the Rockies have exactly zero clue what they are doing. Where did ESPN rank Wade Davis??? LOL

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Will
3 years ago

Seriously? Wow.

Will
Will
Reply to  Dave D
3 years ago

Yep:

Wade Davis – Named closer

February 11, 2020

Davis will be the Rockies’ closer to start the year, Nick Groke of The Athletic reports.

The Great Knoche
Reply to  Will
3 years ago

Start the year is the key here. As in after 1st blow up it’ll be next man up.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  The Great Knoche
3 years ago

Maybe. I’d still only draft him in a DC and still would only plug him in sparingly on road trips if I did.

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Will
3 years ago

I just drafted Wade Davis yesterday in a 20-team dynasty supplemental draft. Pray for me.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Donkey Teeth
3 years ago

Ok, will do.

Are you still planning on playing NFBC Solo Shot?

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Dave D
3 years ago

Yes, I’m in and drafting on that last possible day. You?

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Donkey Teeth
3 years ago

I’m likely doing it too. Just waiting to see how much prize money I have to work with in my war chest as their NFC hockey wraps up. I think I should easily haven enough for Solo Shot plus a $500 satellite or OC league.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

I’m actually leading, dare I say dominating, the NHC Online Championship. First overall currently by 44 points (1,614 total) over next guy.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Yeah, its first year so it’ll grow. 5k if I win it all. Hockey is the fantasy sport most like baseball and its a little easier IMO.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Cross your fingers for me, Grey!!!

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Maybe. That contract is probably the only reason for this. I bet the owner is calling shots on this. If he’s decent then they will do everything they can to deal him in July.

Dave D
Dave D
3 years ago

Tatis at 43 and Mondesi at 76 is ludicrous. ESPN’s priority is focus on social justice, not accurate sports rankings, and convincing white males we are racist oppressors rather than the great grandchildren of immigrants who fled oppression in Europe for opportunity in the US.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Maybe you will eventually reach the stage I am in with ESPN: I pay them no mind and they receive none of my money. I might wipe my a$$ with them and nothing more. They are unworthy.

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Yeah, that’s kind of like people watching network news to get “information” and form opinions. It seems like everything is an infomercial now. Maybe ESPN is trying to fool the general public with their rankings to lead them astray. Come to think of it, that’s kinda the norm now on most venues.

Justin
Justin
Reply to  Dave D
3 years ago

Dave D I gift you an axe to grind

Dave D
Dave D
Reply to  Justin
3 years ago

Haha, Justin!!!

Duda Want to Build a Snowman?
Duda Want to Build a Snowman?
3 years ago

Oof odorizzi!

Robb
Reply to  Duda Want to Build a Snowman?
3 years ago

These posts are great every year. Are you doing one for Yahoo this year?

Spazoid Floyd
Spazoid Floyd
3 years ago

Ohtani question- in a 20 team daily Cbs league he is a batter on DH days and a pitcher on rotation days. So where would you put him in the rankings in that format? I see him as a $20 pitcher combined with a $15 hitter. Since that would make him a $35 player I’d think his draft spot would be in the early 2nd round of a 20 team league. What do you think? Thank you!

Spazoid Floyd
Spazoid Floyd
Reply to  Spazoid Floyd
3 years ago

I just read your blurb on ohtani and I agree, there’s no way he’s a $20 pitcher this year. Maybe a $10 pitcher at most. So my revised estimate of where he should be drafted In my league is pick 47. Good?

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Spazoid Floyd
3 years ago

I definitely think there’s a chance he’s a $20 pitcher this year. Why can’t he throw 120-130 elite innings? Isn’t that worth $20?

Pick 47 seems fine in a daily league.

I’m on the other side of the fence from Grey here…

Spazoid Floyd
Spazoid Floyd
Reply to  Donkey Teeth
3 years ago

Round 2 pick 36 too soon? I feel like it’s not. 24/10/.290 plus 100 innings

Spazoid Floyd
Spazoid Floyd
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Ha!! He’s not going to pitch until late May they’ve said. It sounds like you are saying you don’t recommend pick 36 but you think it’s at least debatable. I’ve taken enough of your time thanks a bunch.

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

I’d never lie to Spazoid!

I missed that mid-May pitching news yesterday. Boooooo.

At least he’ll DH full-time…

B_Don
Reply to  Donkey Teeth
3 years ago

Going to be bouncing back and forth from the minors doing rehab starts, so, not sure it will actually be full time.

ML
ML
Reply to  B_Don
3 years ago

And THIS is the point those in flexible daily move leagues are missing!

If he pitches in the minors every 7th day, you demote him, acquire a hot hitter. Promote him, drop a cold hitter. Throw a few good batter / bad pitcher for bad batter / good pitcher trades..

Repeat to title.

Sweatpants Nation
Sweatpants Nation
3 years ago

“ESPN has already adjusted…” You’re an influencer!
Always a favorite post.

Klara Bell
Klara Bell
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

I got my eye on you, Grey.

Hater Bell
Grey
Reply to  Klara Bell
3 years ago

I look forward to seeing you in Florida for the LABR draft

Snacks Zillion
Snacks Zillion
3 years ago

Ha, love it!! Thanks for the knowledge, the disparity charts are great for my upcoming drafts. I did sign up for the RCL commenters league with L Holt, DT whooped up on me in football so hopefully I do better in baseball.

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Snacks Zillion
3 years ago

Go get her Snacks!

The Great Knoche
Reply to  Snacks Zillion
3 years ago

Laura’s twice the fantasy player DT is. Good luck.

Snacks Zillion
Snacks Zillion
Reply to  The Great Knoche
3 years ago

Ha, I need it!

Donkey Teeth
Admin
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

But she wouldn’t stand a chance against me in an Eating Trash Out of Grey’s Garbage Can Competition!

Snacks Zillion
Snacks Zillion
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

Ha!! Thats great, I will do my best

galica
galica
3 years ago

Grey!!!

Great report. Looking forward to other gaffes out there.

a. Grey, it’s official. In many mock drafts that I’ve been in where there are 11 other humans…Votto has gone undrafted. It’s official…the end of the Vottoman empire. Sad but true.

b. These trends are a little bit worrying in that all the pitching will be gone by the 4th or 5th rounds. Elaborate one more time for those of us who are weak of heart why good hitters should be favored over good pitchers in roto? I’ll start with the fact that a hitter’s worst day is the golden sombrero whereas a pitcher’s worst nightmare is no outs, 4 runs, 2 walks and 2 hits (well it could be worse David Weathers fans). Right?

c. MLB quote of the day for May 2, 1987

‘Do you want to know the truth, or see me hit a few dingers?’

Mark ‘Big Mac’ David McGwire

Cheers,
Ante

Jon10do
Jon10do
Reply to  Grey
3 years ago

B- yep, gets way worse. I had the unfortunate luck of streaming Chase Anderson for his career worst start against the Nationals. Final line: 2.1 IP, 10 W+H, 10 ER.

bigbear
bigbear
Reply to  galica
3 years ago

A. Yep.

B. Dr. Andrew’s just called and is willing to hold. He’s a patient man but he says he has an appointment for the worst nightmare scheduled in Op Room #4 at 2 pm.

C. Haha, that quote is rich! Well played Ante!

galica
galica
Reply to  bigbear
3 years ago

BigBear!!

Many thanks.

Cheers,
Ante

LeMaster of my Domain
LeMaster of my Domain
Reply to  galica
3 years ago

Ante, you are that wine (maybe cheese? lol) that took awhile to appreciate, but with time has become a well-aged fount of goodness. Your MLB quotes soar above previous offerings…well done!