We will be posting one of these articles everyday of the week until opening day…
1. Alex Rodriguez – The perennial all-star had a down year for himself and still drove in 100 runs and had 30 home runs. After missing games due to injury A-Rod is in position to have another monster season batting in the middle of the best lineup in baseball. Rodriguez should hit .300, hit 40 home runs , knock in 120 RBI’s and score 100 runs.
2. Pablo Sandoval – Kung-Fu Panda has shown he can hit pretty much any pitch and hit for power, hitting 25 home runs and hitting 90 RBIs. Hitting in a weak Giants lineup, his opportunities for RBIs and scoring runs isn’t as great as it is for Evan Longoria or Mark Reynolds. Sandoval’s ability to play third base, first base and backup catcher however makes him extremely valuable and worthy of a high draft pick.
3. Evan Longoria – The Rays cornerstone player has been an all-star since he entered the league at age 22 and has only gotten better. Still not in his prime, Longoria should hit .290, hit nearly 40 home runs, drive in 125 runs and score 110 runs. The Rays lineup is extremely young and talented and whether or not they all click will determine Longoria’s run and RBI opportunities. Longoria’s skill alone is worthy of a second round pick.
4. Aramis Ramirez – The Cubs third basemen has hit over .300 for his career and hits with power when healthy. Had a serious shoulder injury but is back and should have another good season in hitter-friendly Wrigley Field. Barring an injury setback Ramirez should hit over .300, 30 home runs and drive in 100 RBIs. Ramirez is a solid middle round pick who will deliver in the middle of a decent Chicago lineup.
5. Kevin Youkilis – Like Sandoval, Youkilis can play first base and third base while hitting for average and power. Playing in a decent Boston lineup, Youkilis can hit .300, hit 30 bombs over the Green Monster and drive in 100 runs while scoring 100 runs himself. The loss of Jason Bay and severe decline of David Ortiz will hurt the Red Sox but a full season of playing alongside Victor Martinez will help pick up some of the slack. Youkilis should be taken in the middle rounds as he is a consistent run producer.
