Fantasy Baseball Chat: March 16
By Scott EngelFLB Chat Wrap: Mar. 16
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Chris Spartanburg SC: I took a gamble on Ronny Cedeno in one of my leagues. He is having a horrible spring. With Baker's reputation should I look to trade or wait for a while.
Scott Engel: (10:01 AM ET ) Good morning everyone!
I wouldn't put too much stock in his numbers yet - the organization, including Baker, seems to have a lot of confidence in Cedeno.
Shawn (Clearwater, FL): Would you give up Pujols for Abreu and Wright?
Scott Engel: (10:02 AM ET ) That's a fair deal - if you need a 3B, I'd go for it.
Tom (Hotlanta): Should I keep Utley instead of Soriano? I am also keeping M. Young, Crawford, and C. Zambrano in a 10 team 5x5 league. Thanks
Scott Engel: (10:03 AM ET ) Yes, I would - Utley is on the rise and now can be considered the best at his position, while Soriano is facing a questionable situation in a pitcher's park.
Joe (Indianapolis, IN): Im worried about Joe Crede not hitting at all this spring. I feel like its a foreshadowing of the upcoming season. That being said, should I dump him off to another owner who will have his world series heroics fresh in his mind? Thanks!
Scott Engel: (10:05 AM ET ) I wouldn't worry too much about his spring numbers, as you should still get 20-plus HRs. But some owners will overrate Crede, so dangle him out there.
fulton, N.Y.: I love all the rookies on the florida team can any of them produce big numbers?
Scott Engel: (10:07 AM ET ) You can get good steal numbers out of Eric Reed, and Hanley Ramirez could be a good late-round MI pick, plus Willingham has obvious power potential. I'd be very careful with the pitching and Uggla, who will really have to prove himself.
Robb (Austin, TX): I have the 3rd pick in a H2H 6x6 (OPS is the extra hitting category) keeper league that is starting this year and am torn between taking Vlad or Teixeira, help me out here. Also, would taking David Wright here be way too high?
Scott Engel: (10:08 AM ET ) That might be a little high for Wright, and I would go with Vlad there.
eric (philly): Does Baez have any value in a no holds h2h league? Is Gagne going to be the closer full-time?
Scott Engel: (10:10 AM ET ) Gagne is set to begin the season as a full-time closer, but I like Baz in that situation and park, and he should be very good in a holds format.
Walker (PA): D.Lee getting injured? Stock going down? I wouldn't touch Prior with a top 10 pick.
Scott Engel: (10:11 AM ET ) Lee's injury is not considered serious - I wouldn't drop his stock yet. At this point, Prior might get an MRI and we have to see the results.
Al- New York: Any chance of Soriano moving to SS?
Scott Engel: (10:12 AM ET ) I doubt it, although there is the obvious opening there with Guzman hurt and Clayton now set to start.
Jack (Chicago): In a 6X6 H2H single season format with OPS being the extra hitting category, would you choose Bay or Abreu?
Scott Engel: (10:13 AM ET ) I'd gow ith Bay - he is younga nd has terrific upside, while Abreau's late struggles last year give me minor concern that he might drop off a little this year.
Trevor (TX): Will K. Foulke be a good 3rd closer for me???Or will he be injury prone as in years past.
Scott Engel: (10:14 AM ET ) He should make his spring debut shortly, but I certainly would not trust him to stay healthy or be regularly effective.
Scott (NYC): Scott- If you had the choice btwn Utley and M. Young, who would you take? I think M. Young b/c there are quite a few good 2B. Your thoughts?
Scott Engel: (10:15 AM ET ) Both are tops at their position, but I'd go with Young, who is more established and can even be considered over Tejada at his position.
Billy (Jersey City NJ): Good Morning! I've been offered the second pick in a 10 team snake draft for my eighth pick the catch is i give up my third round pick meaning he gets 2 picks that round and i get his fifth round pick, is pujols worth it? its only 4 picks between my 4th and 5th round picks...
Scott Engel: (10:16 AM ET ) I'd pass on making the deal - in a 10-team league you can still get a very good hitter at No. 8.
MJ (CT): Would you take Kazmir or King Felix? (sorry if this is a repeat)
Scott Engel: (10:17 AM ET ) Both have terrific upside, but I'd taek Hernandez because he's on a better team, and he might make more of intsant impact than Kazmir did when he first appeared in the majors.
Rob (Bel Air, MD): Scott - I drafted Ellis in a H2H league... well actually it was slim pickens when it came around to me. I traded Isringhausen for Jeff Kent as an upgrade. (I still have Wagner, Valverde, and Orvella). What do you make of the trade?
Scott Engel: (10:19 AM ET ) I think Ellis will build on his numbers from last year and now he should be a fine MI for you. Orvella hasn't officially locke dup his closer job yet.
Eric(SF): So you really believe Duffy is good for 25 steals this year?
Scott Engel: (10:20 AM ET ) Yes - I think he is ready and he'll be a great value pick for steals.
Thomas (Philadelphia, PA): What is in store for Ian Kinsler? Good late round pick up or should I stay away?
Scott Engel: (10:21 AM ET ) He's just about wrapped up the job in Texas. I think he is a fine late-round pick.
d (st. louis): Duffy or Gathright for the whole season?
Scott Engel: (10:22 AM ET ) Gathright might actually open the season in the Tampa Bay lineup. As much as I like Duffy, I'll go with Gathright.
mike, chicago, il: im in a keeper league & some people i have are: k. escobar, king felix, prince fielder & ervin santana... who should i not trade at all during the season in hopes of future success, no matter what they do this year. i got them pretty cheap too, an average price of 3-4 bucks.
Scott Engel: (10:23 AM ET ) Escobar would be the only one I would consider moving if you needed to - even if Fielder struggles early, he could come on later in the year. Felix and Santana could be instant impact players for you.
Tom (Detroit): So i guess with Gath being in teh line up Young is going to the Minors?
Scott Engel: (10:24 AM ET ) Young has not played as well as hoped this spring - yes, he could be up later in the year, but I don't see him in the lineup when the season begins.
Marcus (DC): In my keeper draft, with the third pick I have the choice between Ichiro, Jeter, and Rollins--I am pretty set with avg. and speed so I am thinking Jeter's balance is the way to go--what do you think?
Scott Engel: (10:26 AM ET ) I think you have to go with what position you need - having Rollins at SS fills a need and he'll give you more than just steals, as he'll continue to hit for a good average. If you're set at SS, go with Ichiro.
Joe (Parkersburg, IA): Given position scarcity, would you trade Vlad for Wright?
Scott Engel: (10:27 AM ET ) If I had a crying need at 3B I would do it - otherwise, I would keep Vlad.
Jason (Ottawa Canada): I drafted Dontrelle Willis and Josh Beckett as my #1 and #2 SP's. I'm a little worried these guys are going to give me an ulcer this season. Please tell me everything will be all right.
Scott Engel: (10:28 AM ET ) I can't do that - Willis has much less support this year, obviously, and could sea drop to about 14 or 15 wins. Beckett could be in the same range - just don't overrate him.
John (Miami,Fl): Is the way Barry Bonds is performing this spring making him a top ten pick like he used to be?
Scott Engel: (10:29 AM ET ) No, I would still wait untilt he third round - he's healthy now, but he still carries some risk.
John, Chicago: Speaking of Marlins rookies, what can we expect out of Mike Jacobs this year?
Scott Engel: (10:29 AM ET ) I'm not too crazy about him as a full-timer - I say .265 with about 18 HR.
Patrick (Seattle, WA): With Foulke's health and Boston's inability to rid itself of David Wells, is it possible that Papelbon becomes Boston's closer? He has the experience in college.
Scott Engel: (10:31 AM ET ) The BoSox have modeled him as a starter this spring, although he's been shaky. I think it's possible, but a long shot right now.
And now, I hand the ball to Kevin Rounce ...
Greg (Chicago, IL): Howard vs Helton.
Kevin Rounce: (10:33 AM ET ) Howard has looked great this spring and has been hitting lefties. I would prefer him right now to step up and have a big season. If you want the proven vet and maybe more consistency, Helton would be the way to go.
James (Cincy, OH): Does Mike Gonzalez definitely have the closer's job in Pittsburgh?
Kevin Rounce: (10:34 AM ET ) He definitely starts with it. What he does with it will dictate how long he holds on to it. I think he'll maintain the job throughout the year, but will struggle at times.
william (detroit): what kind of numbers can i expect from prince fielder?
Kevin Rounce: (10:34 AM ET ) Some good power numbers, but expect a lot of streaky hitting and a disappointing average.
Evan (KANSAS): which is the best team to miss the tourny.
Kevin Rounce: (10:35 AM ET ) Cincy
Patrick (Seattle, WA): A quick glance at Jason Vargas' statistics and the spacious home park seem pretty appealing. I know he won't get any run support, but is he a better play in the late rounds than Paul Byrd-level stiffs?
Kevin Rounce: (10:36 AM ET ) Vargas isn't necessarily a better option since Byrd actually was the victim of a little bit of bad luck. Vargas just won't win much likely. Vargas is definitely not a bad pick though.
Joey (Tampa Bay): Devine = Street?
Kevin Rounce: (10:38 AM ET ) That's a big jump. Devine won't start the year as the closer. He may close at some point, but that's a lot to ask of a young pitcher. Even with Bobby Cox.
Eric (Greensboro,NC): Do you expect Scott Rolen to return to his 2004 form this year?
Kevin Rounce: (10:38 AM ET ) I would expect a slow start and then pretty close to 2004 form. His stats won't be the same, but if you're patient with him as he gets back into playing shape, he'll be a very good fantasy 3B.
Jason (Ottawa Canada): When do you see Soriano taking over the closing duties in Seattle?
Kevin Rounce: (10:39 AM ET ) No later than the July trade deadline, but likely earlier.
Earl (KC): Shelton, Morneau, D. Johnson, or P. Fielder?
Kevin Rounce: (10:39 AM ET ) I loved him last year, which may blind me, but I take Morneau followed by Shelton.
Andy (Boston): Given Daniel Cabrera's recent hot streak in the WBC, how high would you put this guy? Mazzone hasn't even got to him yet!
Kevin Rounce: (10:41 AM ET ) Cabrera is the pitcher from Baltimore, at least from the rotation. He's got the best stuff and the highest ceiling. Once Mazzone gets him to throw that low outside fastball and use that to set up his breaking ball, he could be a very good pitcher.
Brian(Diamond Bar, CA): Do you see Gathright being traded anytime soon? Is it a good gamble to pay $1 late in an NL only league?
Kevin Rounce: (10:42 AM ET ) He's looking likely to start the year as the everday center fielder, so with Baldelli's sketchy injury situation, I don't believe that Tampa is in any hurry to deal Gathright. At this point, they would have to be given an offer they couldn't refuse.
Mark (Fantasy Land): In a H2H league is it useful to have multi position guys...I am looking at Luis Gonzalez of Colorado who qualifies at every position but catcher. Do you think he warrants fantasy consideration?
Kevin Rounce: (10:42 AM ET ) He's on the list, but very far down the list. It would depend on how deep your league is. I'm not looking at him in any of my leagues.
Brian (Vancouver WA): Last bench spot 5X5 roto. Wouly you take Granderson or Kinsler? I have an extra OF but no extra INF. Thanks.
Kevin Rounce: (10:43 AM ET ) I would take Granderson even without the extra IF. He'll just have a better year than Kinsler and be more consistent.
k.d. (st. paul): is it crazy for me to take ben sheets early and expect 20 wins from him?
Kevin Rounce: (10:44 AM ET ) probably. he hasn't made all of his start in a year. He's depending on a very young offense to score enough runs for him. He could win twenty, and the potential in Milwaukee is great, but probably not this year.
Adrian Beltre (Puerto Rico): First off, I want to apologize to everyone who took me in the first round last year...Anyways, I've been mashing the ball in the WBC...Does this show a sign of a 2004 Dodger like year for me?
Kevin Rounce: (10:45 AM ET ) This shows that you are closer to the 2004 form than the 2005 form. Don't expect the Mike Schmidt-like season to retun, but a 30 home run season and 100+ RBI is certainly within reach.
eric (philly): Rotation question - pick three - lowe, e. santana, garland, or D. Cabrera? Pitching is definitely my weakest link
Kevin Rounce: (10:46 AM ET ) Lowe is the probably the safest option. He's a consistent vet who is playing with a good team and a good infield defense. Cabrera has the highest upside and could be great, but may be inconsistent. So pick which problem you would like more. Boring or headache causing.
Teddy (NYC): Whats gonna be the biggest upset today?
Kevin Rounce: (10:47 AM ET ) Texas A&M will beat Syracuse.
mike (DC): should i pick up heilman or chen?
Kevin Rounce: (10:47 AM ET ) I like Heilman this year. He should be developing into a very fine starting pitcher, and doing it in a very friendly ballpark.
emily, pittsburg: please answer!!... taking no SPs before round 8.. crazy? (12 team, mixed league)
Kevin Rounce: (10:48 AM ET ) Not necessarily. That is seemingly Eric Karabell's strategy every year and he always wins. Your offense will keep you competitive. Now you have to make smart picks at pitcher and monitor the wire for closers.
John (Newton): Is Brandon McCarthy worth holding on my bench?
Kevin Rounce: (10:49 AM ET ) Unless the Sox make a deal, I just don't see him making a big impact. Now, if they deal one of their starters, pick him up!
Mark (Schenectady, NY): D. Lowe or Matt Morris? Might have to pick the opposite of what you say after you picking against the Cuse!
Kevin Rounce: (10:50 AM ET ) No offense to Cuse, but they're momentum is probably gone and A&M is a little underrated.
I probably grab Lowe this year. There are fewer questions surrounding him.
Trevor (TX): My OF's are Beltran, Burrell and Griffey; I also have Berkman at CI. Can I rely on these 4 guys to put up good numbers?
Kevin Rounce: (10:51 AM ET ) You don't have a lot of speed there, but when Griffey's healthy, he'll put up good numbers. Burrell worries me a little with his crazy inconsistency. Other than that, you should be fine.
Eric(Boston): Is this the year Pavano regains his 03 form?
Kevin Rounce: (10:51 AM ET ) He's not even throwing batting practice yet. He will eventually be better than he was last season, but 2003 will remain out of his reach.
josh (Pottstown, Pa): Hey Kev. Do you think Pedro will come back and win 20+ games? Thanks.
Kevin Rounce: (10:52 AM ET ) He certainly seems to be set up for it. He has the offense to score for him. If he stays healthy (which is always the question) yes he can win 20.
Trevor (TX): I need another good Closer. Should I deal Hudson or N. Lowry for a Closer like Wickman???
Kevin Rounce: (10:54 AM ET ) If you can find a closer who is in a little more steady situation and is less of an injury risk, then yes. Lowry and Hudson, right now, are more valuable than Wickman. Maybe a Tom Gordon or Derrick Turnbow.
Cory(Boston): Do YOU think Soriano will be dealt?
Kevin Rounce: (10:56 AM ET ) I think he needs to be dealt. This whole situation will go into the season and may become of a battle of wills. I hope he gets dealt, but it may not happen until the season has begun.
Mike (IA): Will the winner of the LF derby in STL have any fantasy value?
Kevin Rounce: (10:56 AM ET ) no
Trevor (TX): Whats the story on Ryan Dempster? Is he a good 3rd closer option???
Kevin Rounce: (10:57 AM ET ) He should be set up to close in Chicago which is something he did very well last season. He is a fine third closer option.
Dan (Syracuse): Give some love to the Orange... Rank these guys if you were starting a keeper league: Vlad, Texiera, Johan Santana, Derek Lee, David Wright, Miguel Cabrera.
Kevin Rounce: (10:58 AM ET ) The Orange had a magical run in the Big East tourney and may have produced the best set of finishes on consecutive nights. Go G-Mac.
Teixeira, Wright, Cabrera, Santana, Lee, Vlad
Casey (Tampa): Whats the deal with Prior? Do you ever see him living up to all his hype that he had in the past?
Kevin Rounce: (10:59 AM ET ) I have this feeling that there will be that one season where he remains healthy and lives up to the hype. When that happens? Who knows, but we'll all kick ourselves when we miss it.
Trevor (TX): Pudge or Javy?
Kevin Rounce: (10:59 AM ET ) Javy, barely
Trevor (TX): Ensberg or Chipper???
Kevin Rounce: (10:59 AM ET ) Chipper, more consistency
Matt, MPLS : Delucci or Brady Clark as my backup to Bonds? Thanks guys, the chats rock!
Kevin Rounce: (10:59 AM ET ) Delucci. Clark takes a step back this year.
Mike (IA): Thanks for answering my question. Good luck with your brackets, and have a great Thursday.
Kevin Rounce: (11:00 AM ET ) A good way to end. For those who have brackets, good luck! For those who get to watch the tourney, Congrats!
Have a great Thursday. Scott Engel is back tomorrow to talk Daunte and other football matters.
