On February 19, 12 fantasy writers participated in a dynasty mock draft. The league is 5x5, standard 14 active hitters and nine active pitchers with two bench spots. In dynasty rules, every player drafted is eligible to be kept the following year.
Round 1
1.1 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Mike Trout, OF, LAA
1.2 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Giancarlo Stanton, OF, MIA
1.3 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Andrew McCutchen, OF, PIT
1.4 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Paul Goldschmidt, 1B, AZ
1.5 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Clayton Kershaw, SP, LAD
1.6 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Bryce Harper, OF, WSH
1.7 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Miguel Cabrera, 1B, DET
1.8 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Anthony Rendon, 3B, WSH
1.9 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Jose Abreu, 1B, CHW
1.10 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Jose Altuve, 2B, HOU
1.11 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Josh Donaldson, 3B, TOR
1.12 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Yasiel Puig, OF, LAD
As expected, Mike Trout and Giancarlo Stanton led off the draft, carrying even more value due to their youth. The curveball came with the sixth pick, as 22-year-old Bryce Harper was selected. While Harper certainly has first round upside in 2015, this pick has an eye toward 2016 and beyond. Anthony Rendon is another youthful pick up, turning 25 in June, though he will likely lose second base eligibility behind this season. Yasiel Puig also adds intrigue at age 24 despite his struggles during the second half of 2014.
Round 2
2.13 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Nolan Arenado, 3B, COL
2.14 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Anthony Rizzo, 1B, CHC
2.15 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Carlos Gomez, OF, MIL
2.16 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Jose Bautista, OF, TOR
2.17 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Edwin Encarnacion, 1B, TOR
2.18 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Robinson Cano, 2B, SEA
2.19 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - George Springer, OF, HOU
2.20 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Troy Tulowitzki, SS, COL
2.21 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Ian Desmond, SS, WSH
2.22 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Adam Jones, OF, BAL
2.23 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Stephen Strasburg, SP, WSH
2.24 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Jacoby Ellsbury, OF, NYY
The Rockies are seemingly looking to build around Nolan Arenado, so it’s not a bad idea for fantasy owners to follow suit in dynasty leagues. Anthony Rizzo’s draft spot at 14 is a surprising value given his similar ADP in redraft leagues. Clay Link went for his second consecutive young outfielder in George Springer, though keep in mind that Houston’s power hitter is already 25. While close to his peak, it remains to be seen if he has the batting average ability to ever fulfill second round value. Pending free agents also create interesting situations for owners in dynasty leagues, as Ian Desmond did for Brad Pinkerton with the 21st overall pick. If he leaves Washington in 2016, his stock could be heavily influenced.
Round 3
3.25 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Felix Hernandez, SP, SEA
3.26 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Billy Hamilton, OF, CIN
3.27 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Buster Posey, C, SF
3.28 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Hanley Ramirez, SS, BOS
3.29 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Yoenis Cespedes, OF, DET
3.30 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Chris Sale, SP, CHW
3.31 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Ryan Braun, OF, MIL
3.32 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - David Price, SP, DET
3.33 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Starling Marte, OF, PIT
3.34 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Freddie Freeman, 1B, ATL
3.35 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Michael Brantley, OF, CLE
3.36 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Madison Bumgarner, SP, SF
Billy Hamilton’s value is pushed up with his youth. If the 24-year-old can make some progress with his batting average, he’s likely to be a dominant base stealer for at least the next 3-4 seasons. The remainder of the round is a mix of veterans and youth, though Starling Marte does show big potential as a late third round value. Marte has only managed to play 135 games in each of the last two seasons, but has second round upside if he can find better health with his five-tool ability. As long as Freddie Freeman has been around, it’s hard to believe that he’s still only 25. He’s been consistent to this point in his career, but could find RBI tougher to come by this season in a weak Atlanta lineup.
Round 4
4.37 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Gregory Polanco, OF, PIT
4.38 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Matt Kemp, OF, SD
4.39 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Justin Upton, OF, SD
4.40 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Max Scherzer, SP, WSH
4.41 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Matt Harvey, SP, NYM
4.42 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Manny Machado, 3B, BAL
4.43 Clay Link – (RotoWire) - Christian Yelich, OF, MIA
4.44 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Mookie Betts, OF, BOS
4.45 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Adrian Beltre, 3B, TEX
4.46 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Kris Bryant, 3B, CHC
4.47 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Kolten Wong, 2B, STL
4.48 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Adrian Gonzalez, 1B, LAD
The upside plays really started in Round 4. Among them, Gregory Polanco is a major projection play after hitting only .235 in 89 games last season. His minor league numbers still show a potential fantasy force down the road. Matt Harvey is in the second tier of starting pitchers returning from Tommy John surgery, though it probably wouldn’t shock anyone if he’s the second drafted pitcher in redraft leagues going into 2016. Manny Machado looked like a future star a couple years ago, but multiple knee surgeries have made him more of a question mark. Christian Yelich has yet to show his power in the majors, but already contributes in most categories with big upside. Mookie Betts has to win a starting job in spring training, but the rewards are huge should he become Boston’s leadoff hitter this season. Kris Bryant is everyone’s prospect darling heading into 2015, and a top power prospect when he arrives at some point early this year.
Round 5
5.49 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Corey Kluber, SP, CLE
5.50 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Starlin Castro, SS, CHC
5.51 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Xander Bogaerts, SS, BOS
5.52 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Jason Kipnis, 2B, CLE
5.53 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Carlos Gonzalez, OF, COL
5.54 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Gerrit Cole, SP, PIT
5.55 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Jose Fernandez, SP, MIA
5.56 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Jorge Soler, OF, CHC
5.57 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Corey Dickerson, OF, COL
5.58 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Dee Gordon, 2B, MIA
5.59 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Kole Calhoun, OF, LAA
5.60 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Cole Hamels, SP, PHI
Turning 25 in March, Starlin Castro still has immense upside and value in dynasty leagues. Though, his future beyond 2015 could be elsewhere with Chicago’s bevy of elite infield prospects. Xander Bogaerts is now a post-hype prospect, formerly known as the best shortstop prospect in the game. He’s still only 22. Jose Fernandez is expected to miss at least the first half of this season following Tommy John surgery, but was the most valuable pitcher in fantasy baseball when he got hurt last year. The 22-year-old looks like a great value in dynasty formats this early if you’re willing to mortgage 2015. Jorge Soler was also drafted on potential, though he showed huge power in his major league debut.
Round 6
6.61 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Jose Reyes, SS, TOR
6.62 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Alexei Ramirez, SS, CHW
6.63 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Hunter Pence, OF, SF
6.64 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Yu Darvish, SP, TEX
6.65 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Jonathan Lucroy, C, MIL
6.66 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Jason Heyward, OF, STL
6.67 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Evan Longoria, 3B, TB
6.68 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Prince Fielder, 1B, TEX
6.69 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Craig Kimbrel, RP, ATL
6.70 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Joey Votto, 1B, CIN
6.71 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Devin Mesoraco, C, CIN
6.72 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Kyle Seager, 3B, SEA
Where did all the youth go in Round 6? Owners were able to fill-in with solid regulars in this round, and few youngsters were selected. The rare exceptions were Jason Heyward, still only 25, and 26-year-old Devin Mesoraco. Mesoraco fits the perception of a young player since he’s really only had one season as a regular, and that season was a breakout campaign in 2014. He looks like a solid value for D.J. Short.
Round 7
7.73 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Byron Buxton, OF, MIN
7.74 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Todd Frazier, 3B, CIN
7.75 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Jordan Zimmermann, SP, WSH
7.76 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Aroldis Chapman, RP, CIN
7.77 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Evan Gattis, C, HOU
7.78 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Alex Cobb, SP, TB
7.79 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Ian Kinsler, 2B, DET
7.80 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Julio Teheran, SP, ATL
7.81 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Yan Gomes, C, CLE
7.82 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Johnny Cueto, SP, CIN
7.83 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Neil Walker, 2B, PIT
7.84 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Carlos Santana, 1B, CLE
Byron Buxton’s stock has dropped slightly due to recent injuries, but his fantasy potential still earns big respect in dynasty leagues. He should make a major league contribution at some point this season with an eye toward replacing Torii Hunter in Minnesota’s outfield in 2016. The power potential lags behind Mike Trout, but the other tools make him a long-term first round prospect for fantasy leagues. Jordan Zimmermann and Johnny Cueto represent long-term risks in walk years, with fantasy owners unaware of where they will pitch in 2016 and beyond. That uncertainty likely drops their values a bit. Julio Teheran has had no issues with health to this point, making him an even more attractive young pitcher at age 24.
Round 8
8.85 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Salvador Perez, C, KC
8.86 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Marcell Ozuna, OF, MIA
8.87 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Matt Wieters, C, BAL
8.88 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Rusney Castillo, OF, BOS
8.89 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Zack Greinke, SP, LAD
8.90 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Adam Wainwright, SP, STL
8.91 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Marcus Stroman, SP, TOR
8.92 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Sonny Gray, SP, OAK
8.93 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Jay Bruce, OF, CIN
8.94 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Zack Wheeler, SP, NYM
8.95 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Garrett Richards, SP, LAA
8.96 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Greg Holland, RP, KC
There’s some very solid youth in Round, including Marcell Ozuna, Rusney Castillo, Marcus Stroman, Sonny Gray, Zack Wheeler and Garrett Richards. Each see inflated value in this round vs. their normal redraft spots. Ozuna, in particular, projects very strong power after hitting 23 homers in his age 23 season. Castillo is an unknown, but his tools should play well for fantasy leagues. Stroman, Gray, Wheeler and Richards have all shown major flashes of brilliance to this point, with their owners betting on good health for the foreseeable future.
Round 9
9.97 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Joc Pederson, OF, LAD
9.98 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Chris Davis, 1B, BAL
9.99 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Wil Myers, OF, SD
9.100 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Javier Baez, 2B, CHC
9.101 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Albert Pujols, 1B, LAA
9.102 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Joey Gallo, 3B, TEX
9.103 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Carlos Correa, SS, HOU
9.104 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Ben Zobrist, 2B, OAK
9.105 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Brian Dozier, 2B, MIN
9.106 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Jon Lester, SP, CHC
9.107 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Yordano Ventura, SP, KC
9.108 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Matt Adams, 1B, STL
I love the Joc Pederson pick. He’s a player that could start for the Dodgers on Opening Day this season, but he hasn’t received much respect in redraft leagues yet. However, Pederson has shown 30/30 tools in the minors, and that’s tough to come by beyond Round two in the future if he can actually show it. Wil Myers’ stock has fallen after an injury-plagued 2014 and the move to PETCO Park, but his power still shows 20-plus home run potential immediately. Javier Baez could see some hiccups in the near future due to his lack of contact, but undoubtedly has 20-plus home run upside in the middle infield. Joey Gallo and Carlos Correa are the first long-term projections of the draft, as neither is likely to see more than a cup of coffee this season. Gallo hit 42 homers last season, but has major contact issues, while Correa is coming off of a major leg injury.
Round 10
10.109 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Dellin Betances, RP, NYY
10.110 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Alex Wood, SP, ATL
10.111 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Carlos Carrasco, SP, CLE
10.112 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Matt Carpenter, 3B, STL
10.113 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Jean Segura, SS, MIL
10.114 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Jake Arrieta, SP, CHC
10.115 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Dustin Pedroia, 2B, BOS
10.116 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Brian McCann, C, NYY
10.117 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Masahiro Tanaka, SP, NYY
10.118 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Kevin Gausman, SP, BAL
10.119 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Brandon Belt, 1B, SF
10.120 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - David Wright, 3B, NYM
The story of Round 10 was intriguing young pitching. Dellin Betances is already an elite reliever, and looks like the Yankees’ long-term answer at closer. Alex Wood, Carlos Carrasco, Jake Arrieta and Kevin Gausman are relatively young arms that have already flashed huge potential. Aside from Gausman, these pitchers aren’t far off their normal average draft position in Round 10 and could return big value for many years to come.
Round 11
Round 12
11.121 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Charlie Blackmon, OF, COL
11.122 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Avisail Garcia, OF, CHW
11.123 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Yasmany Tomas, OF, AZ
11.124 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Kenley Jansen, RP, LAD
11.125 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Howie Kendrick, 2B, LAD
11.126 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Chris Archer, SP, TB
11.127 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Eric Hosmer, 1B, KC
11.128 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Shelby Miller, SP, ATL
11.129 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Mark Trumbo, 1B, AZ
11.130 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Elvis Andrus, SS, TEX
11.131 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Alex Gordon, OF, KC
11.132 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Tyson Ross, SP, SD
12.133 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Rougned Odor, 2B, TEX
12.134 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Leonys Martin, OF, TEX
12.135 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Yadier Molina, C, STL
12.136 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Adam Eaton, OF, CHW
12.137 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Dalton Pompey, OF, TOR
12.138 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Gio Gonzalez, SP, WSH
12.139 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Chris Carter, DH, HOU
12.140 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Mark Melancon, RP, PIT
12.141 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Ryan Zimmerman, 1B, WSH
12.142 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Corey Seager, SS, LAD
12.143 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Cody Allen, RP, CLE
12.144 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Jacob deGrom, SP, NYM
As the rounds get into double-digits, we start to see more and more long-term projection plays. Avisail Garcia looked good after returning from a shoulder injury last season, and has interesting upside. However, he’s been picked well above his ADP. Eric Hosmer, a former elite prospect, is coming off a down year but is still just 25. Likewise, Shelby Miller took a step back in his age 24 season, but has shown huge upside in the past. Rougned Odor was an elite second base prospect before the Rangers rushed him to the majors in Jurickson Profar’s stead last season, and has plenty of upside at age 21 despite the early career hiccups. Dalton Pompey is a sleeper for AL Rookie of the Year as Toronto’s likely starting center fielder, and has shown the fantasy upside in the minors to be a 30-plus base stealer. Corey Seager is arguably the best hitting prospect in the game not named Kris Bryant, and could be just one year away. Jacob deGrom is looking to capitalize on his NL Rookie of the Year campaign, but is already going on age 27.
Round 13
Round 14
13.145 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Matt Holliday, OF, STL
13.146 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Addison Russell, SS, CHC
13.147 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Trevor Rosenthal, RP, STL
13.148 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Nelson Cruz, OF, SEA
13.149 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Oswaldo Arcia, OF, MIN
13.150 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Francisco Lindor, SS, CLE
13.151 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - David Ortiz, DH, BOS
13.152 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Denard Span, OF, WSH
13.153 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Pablo Sandoval, 3B, BOS
13.154 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - David Robertson, RP, CHW
13.155 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Mike Zunino, C, SEA
13.156 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Jeff Samardzija, SP, CHW
14.157 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - J.D. Martinez, OF, DET
14.158 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Jedd Gyorko, 2B, SD
14.159 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Lance Lynn, SP, STL
14.160 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Michael Wacha, SP, STL
14.161 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Noah Syndergaard, SP, NYM
14.162 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Zach Britton, RP, BAL
14.163 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Taijuan Walker, SP, SEA
14.164 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Victor Martinez, 1B, DET
14.165 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Steve Cishek, RP, MIA
14.166 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Lucas Duda, 1B, NYM
14.167 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Danny Salazar, SP, CLE
14.168 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Lucas Giolito, SP, WSH
Addison Russell and Francisco Lindor represent almost sure things as regulars in the majors, though their fantasy potential still remains to be seen. Neither shortstop has shown huge fantasy numbers in the minors, though each have a plus offensive talent that fantasy owners covet. Oswaldo Arcia has yet to have a true breakout season, though he already has 34 homers through two seasons at age 24. Mike Zunino seems like a one-trick pony after hitting .199-22-60 last season, but already has prodigious power at age 24. Michael Wacha and Taijuan Walker have already shown big upside, but also shoulder injuries in their brief careers. Noah Syndergaard and Lucas Giolito will probably make limited contributions this season, especially in the case of Giolito, but also have big potential. Danny Salazar was a disappointment last season, but had a great second half and likely earned a rotation spot heading into 2015.
Round 15
Round 16
15.169 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Julio Urias, SP, LAD
15.170 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Arismendy Alcantara, OF, CHC
15.171 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Carlos Rodon, SP, CHW
15.172 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Anibal Sanchez, SP, DET
15.173 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Drew Storen, RP, WSH
15.174 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Travis d'Arnaud, C, NYM
15.175 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Yasmani Grandal, C, LAD
15.176 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Andrew Heaney, SP, LAA
15.177 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Wilson Ramos, C, WSH
15.178 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Drew Smyly, SP, TB
15.179 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Chris Tillman, SP, BAL
15.180 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Lorenzo Cain, OF, KC
16.181 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Sean Doolittle, RP, OAK
16.182 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Michael Fiers, SP, MIL
16.183 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Pedro Alvarez, 1B, PIT
16.184 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Michael Pineda, SP, NYY
16.185 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Miguel Sano, 3B, MIN
16.186 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Andrew Cashner, SP, SD
16.187 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Steven Souza, OF, TB
16.188 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - James Shields, SP, SD
16.189 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Justin Verlander, SP, DET
16.190 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Jung-Ho Kang, SS, PIT
16.191 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - A.J. Pollock, OF, AZ
16.192 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Doug Fister, SP, WSH
You will be hard-pressed to find a pitching prospect with as much upside as Julio Urias, though the 18-year-old’s lack of size has created some question about his long-term durability. Carlos Rodon fell in the amateur draft last year, but could contribute at some point for the White Sox this season. I found Travis d’Arnaud to be a steal in the 15th round after a strong second half, though he is already going into his age 26 season. Andrew Heaney and Drew Smyly are two of the AL’s brightest young arms, though Smyly is clearly readier to help. Miguel Sano’s ETA was pushed back following Tommy John surgery last season, but the third baseman showed big power potential before the injury and could still help in the second half of 2015. Steven Souza stands to see regular at-bats for the Rays this season, and is a threat for power and speed as he turns 26 in April. Jung-Ho Kang is a major question mark in all formats, particularly dynasty. It looks like the Korean will be used as a utilityman by the Pirates initially, but the 16th round is late enough to roll the dice. A.J. Pollock is being overlooked by some fantasy owners after playing only 75 games last season, but he hit .302-7-24 with 14 steals and 41 runs scored in that brief time.
Round 17
Round 18
Round 19
17.193 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Alcides Escobar, SS, KC
17.194 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Hyun-Jin Ryu, SP, LAD
17.195 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Matt Moore, SP, TB
17.196 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Hisashi Iwakuma, SP, SEA
17.197 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Hector Olivera, 2B, FA
17.198 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Yoan Moncada, SS, FA
17.199 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Ben Revere, OF, PHI
17.200 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Cliff Lee, SP, PHI
17.201 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Danny Santana, OF, MIN
17.202 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Jose Quintana, SP, CHW
17.203 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Nick Castellanos, 3B, DET
17.204 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Shin-Soo Choo, OF, TEX
18.205 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Carlos Martinez, RP, STL
18.206 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Derek Norris, C, SD
18.207 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Ken Giles, RP, PHI
18.208 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Drew Hutchison, SP, TOR
18.209 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Wilin Rosario, C, COL
18.210 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Phil Hughes, SP, MIN
18.211 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Huston Street, RP, LAA
18.212 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Jake McGee, RP, TB
18.213 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Brandon Moss, OF, CLE
18.214 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Patrick Corbin, SP, AZ
18.215 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Blake Swihart, C, BOS
18.216 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Russell Martin, C, TOR
19.217 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Glen Perkins, RP, MIN
19.218 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Brett Gardner, OF, NYY
19.219 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Miguel Montero, C, CHC
19.220 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - James Paxton, SP, SEA
19.221 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Brandon McCarthy, SP, LAD
19.222 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Josmil Pinto, C, MIN
19.223 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Melky Cabrera, OF, CHW
19.224 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Wilmer Flores, SS, NYM
19.225 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - J.P. Crawford, SS, PHI
19.226 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Jesse Hahn, SP, OAK
19.227 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Maikel Cleto, RP, FA
19.228 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Jhonny Peralta, SS, STL
Despite elbow troubles, Matt Moore could be a major steal in Round 17 considering his price relative to some of the other elite young arms in the game. Hector Olivera, an unknown commodity from Cuba, should have an opportunity to compete this season if the right team signs him. Yoan Moncada, on the other hand, has almost no chance of helping the Red Sox this season at age 19, but still has upside down the line. Nick Castellanos was only serviceable for the Tigers last season, but he’s just 23. Several promising young pitchers went in Round 18, including Carlos Martinez, Ken Giles, Drew Hutchison and Patrick Corbin. I was particularly happy to get Giles with Jonathan Papelbon’s future in Philadelphia still up in the air. Blake Swihart could have a future in Boston, or elsewhere, depending on Christian Vazquez’s outlook. However, Swihart is generally considered a safe bet to be a regular by 2016. James Paxton has seen his share of arm issues already, but strong minor league strikeout rates show his upside. Of course, I prefer Jesse Hahn later in the round as a pitcher that dominated major league hitters last season and should help Oakland this year. Josmil Pinto’s stock has dropped as a result of Kurt Suzuki’s presence in Minnesota, but I think that’s a foolish statement if you read it aloud. Pinto is still the Twins’ future at catcher and has major power potential. Wilmer Flores is an underrated bat for the Mets, even if his long-term future isn’t at shortstop, and he’s still only 23. J.P. Crawford is the future at shortstop for the Phils, though he’s only made it up to High-A.
Round 20
Round 21
Round 22
20.229 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Jason Castro, C, HOU
20.230 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Brandon Finnegan, RP, KC
20.231 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Marcus Semien, 3B, OAK
20.232 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Ian Kennedy, SP, SD
20.233 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Brett Lawrie, 3B, OAK
20.234 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Matt Shoemaker, SP, LAA
20.235 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Hector Rondon, RP, CHC
20.236 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Matt Cain, SP, SF
20.237 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Stephen Vogt, 1B, OAK
20.238 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Daniel Murphy, 2B, NYM
20.239 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Robinson Chirinos, C, TEX
20.240 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Martin Prado, 3B, MIA
21.241 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Chase Utley, 2B, PHI
21.242 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Dallas Keuchel, SP, HOU
21.243 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Hunter Renfroe, OF, SD
21.244 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Jayson Werth, OF, WSH
21.245 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Homer Bailey, SP, CIN
21.246 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Luis Severino, SP, NYY
21.247 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Marlon Byrd, OF, CIN
21.248 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Juan Lagares, OF, NYM
21.249 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Jake Odorizzi, SP, TB
21.250 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Aaron Sanchez, RP, TOR
21.251 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Danny Duffy, SP, KC
21.252 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Dylan Bundy, SP, BAL
22.253 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Maikel Franco, 3B, PHI
22.254 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Brad Boxberger, RP, TB
22.255 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Michael Taylor, OF, WSH
22.256 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Marco Gonzales, SP, STL
22.257 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Trevor Bauer, SP, CLE
22.258 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Fernando Rodney, RP, SEA
22.259 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Jose Peraza, 2B, ATL
22.260 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Josh Harrison, 3B, PIT
22.261 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Alex Rios, OF, KC
22.262 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Jenrry Mejia, RP, NYM
22.263 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Joaquin Benoit, RP, SD
22.264 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Addison Reed, RP, AZ
Brandon Finnegan flashed brilliance in relief late last season, but will likely get a full season to work as a starter in the minors. I’m thrilled to get Marcus Semien in Round 20, Oakland’s likely shortstop on Opening Day and a darkhorse candidate to go 15/15. Brett Lawrie also looks like a steal with a change of scenery. His stock is well down, but he’s still only 25. Hunter Renfroe and Luis Severino represent major projection plays in Round 21, but each is an upper echelon prospect. Aaron Sanchez could close for Toronto this season, but his long-term role is likely in the rotation. Dylan Bundy has been a big name that fantasy owners have been waiting on for a while, but his role this season remains to be seen as he works his way back from Tommy John surgery. Maikel Franco, Michael Taylor and Jose Peraza should each help at some point this season, and they’re all elite prospects at their positions. It’s hard to find the downside in these prospects at this point in a dynasty league. Marco Gonzales and Trevor Bauer share that upside, though they are readier to help.
Round 23
Round 24
Round 25
23.265 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Kyle Schwarber, C, CHC
23.266 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Andrelton Simmons, SS, ATL
23.267 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Mat Latos, SP, MIA
23.268 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Archie Bradley, SP, AZ
23.269 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Koji Uehara, RP, BOS
23.270 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Henry Owens, SP, BOS
23.271 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Derek Holland, SP, TEX
23.272 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Justin Morneau, 1B, COL
23.273 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Neftali Feliz, RP, TEX
23.274 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Colby Rasmus, OF, HOU
23.275 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Tanner Roark, SP, WSH
23.276 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Henderson Alvarez, SP, MIA
24.277 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Rick Porcello, SP, BOS
24.278 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Wade Davis, RP, KC
24.279 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - Desmond Jennings, OF, TB
24.280 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Tony Cingrani, SP, CIN
24.281 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - David Dahl, OF, COL
24.282 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Daniel Norris, RP, TOR
24.283 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Adam LaRoche, 1B, CHW
24.284 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Carl Crawford, OF, LAD
24.285 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Jorge Alfaro, C, TEX
24.286 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Kennys Vargas, UT, MIN
24.287 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Santiago Casilla, RP, SF
24.288 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Jered Weaver, SP, LAA
25.289 Ryan Boyer (Rotoworld) - Drew Pomeranz, SP, OAK
25.290 D.J. Short (Rotoworld) - Steven Matz, SP, NYM
25.291 Mike Rosenbaum (Rotoworld) - Jameson Taillon, SP, PIT
25.292 Brad Pinkerton (Sporting News) - Robert Stephenson, SP, CIN
25.293 Matthew Pouliot (Rotoworld) - Joe Mauer, 1B, MIN
25.294 Clay Link - (RotoWire) - Jesse Winker, OF, CIN
25.295 Bret Sayre (Baseball Prospectus) - Jarrod Saltalamacchia, C, MIA
25.296 Matthew Foreman (Rotoworld) - Tyler Glasnow, SP, PIT
25.297 Nathan Grimm (Rotoworld) - Mike Foltynewicz, RP, ATL
25.298 Seth Trachtman (Rotoworld) - T.J. House, SP, CLE
25.299 Lawr Michaels (Mastersball) - Nick Martinez, SP, TEX
25.300 Drew Silva (Rotoworld) - Kyle Zimmer, SP, KC
Kyle Schwarber is another advanced college bat the Cubs selected in the first round of 2014, and his early pro results resemble those of Kris Bryant. Archie Bradley and Henry Owens are unlikely to help much this season, but both have shown the strikeout rates in the minors to make fantasy owners excited. The 25-year-old Tony Cingrani is a great value is a great value in Round 24, just one year removed from major league dominance. David Dahl and Jorge Alfaro should both help down the line in great hitter’s parks if they remain with their respective organizations. The final round showed some strong wild cards, including Steve Matz, Jameson Taillon, Robert Stephenson, Jesse Winker, Tyler Glasnow, Mike Foltynewicz and Kyle Zimmer. There’s certainly no harm in taking a risk at this point, though some quality major leaguers were left on the board.