December 1, 2010

Early 2011 Fantasy Baseball Rankings: 3B

Other Positions: C | 1B | 2B | SS | 3B | OF | SP |

Behind outfield and first, third base is where all the power is at. On the rare occasion, as seen with a few of the studs, there is speed to go with the bat. But, for the most part, the guys here swing a mean stick and can be major sources of homers and RBIs. With that in mind, let's look at the top 15 players at the hot corner:
  1. Evan Longoria, Rays- Hopefully one of your leaguemates will think his divorce with Tony Parker will hurt his production. That way you can get your hands on the most talented 3B out there.
  2. David Wright, Mets- One of those aforementioned speed/power rarities. A 25/15 season will be a down year for this Met.
  3. Alex Rodriguez, Yankees- A-Rod's run production was suspiciously low last year. But his RBI and homer totals are outta this world.
  4. Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals-Tremendous all-around player. 85/25/85 is just too nice to pass up.
  5. Jose Bautista, Blue Jays- I personally won't be selecting him (see: Brady Anderson) but if it isn't a fluke he deserves even better than 5th.
  6. Michael Young, Rangers- Can hit for power as well as average. Plus, look at the mashers he has behind him in the lineup.
  7. Casey McGehee, Brewers- Was a trendy sleeper pick that paid off last year. Could improve even further on last year's 80/15/60/10 line.
  8. Adrian Beltre- What happened the last time Beltre signed a contract following a monster season? He blew like a train whistle, that's what.
  9. Pablo Sandoval, Giants- Kung Fu Panda can only go up from last year. Or so I hope.
  10. Mark Reynolds, Diamondbacks- When he makes contact, good things happen. Unfortunately, that doesn't happen very often.
  11. Ian Stewart, Rockies- Mark Reynolds lite. A little less bang for a lot less Ks.
  12. Aramis Ramirez, Cubs-  A mainstay at the position. Last year was a bit of a disappointment, but that seems to be a trend at third.
  13. Scott Rolen, Reds- Smack dab in the middle of a powerful Cincinnati lineup. Showed flashes of his former greatness last year.
  14. Chase Headley, Padres- The imminent departure of Gonzalez could mean a lot less protection for Headley. Plus, he plays in Petco. 
  15. Placido Polanco, Phillies- Not much power, not much speed. But a great lineup and a high average makes for lots of runs and ribbies.
Check back tomorrow as we take a big look at the outfield, previewing the top 25 players there.