2016 Tenth Man Out Team Preview

Jake Arrieta (ChC - SP)

Summary: If anyone wants to see how to run a fantasy team, look no further than multiple league champion Tenth Man Out (TMO) as it reloads and continues to remain competitive. Pinpointing high upside players and striking gold is an art that TMO has seemingly perfected. Can anyone stop this juggernaut? Probably not.  

Offense: TMO features the talents of NL MVP Bryce Harper (Was - OF) and NL RBI champ Nolan Arenado (Col - 3B), both of which hit 42 homers last season. Adding to that talented duo is cornerstone Anthony Rizzo (ChC - 1B) and the well-rounded Starling Marte (Pit - OF), who has 30/30 potential. Shortstop Xander Bogaerts (Bos - SS) has developed in all categories with the exception of power, which may come soon, future HOFer Miguel Cabrera (Det - 1B), while not as amazing as he once was is still MCab when healthy, and Robinson Cano (Sea - 2B) provides a veteran influence at a thin infield position. Outfielder Yasiel Puig (LAD - OF) remains uber-talented though inconsistent and the jury is still out on if Corey Dickerson (TB - SP) will rebound in Tampa Bay after having a down season. Rice alum Anthony Rendon (Was - 2B,3B) remains capable when uninjured while Domingo Sananta (Mil - OF) possess Stanton-esque power potential if his contact improves leaving prospect JP Crawford (Phi - SS) as a Top 5 talent. The top of this lineup is formidable to say the least as TMO possessed 3 of the Top 15 bats in baseball last season. Adding a catcher will be a requirement and it will be interesting to see who that might be but even with its lopsidedness, TMO's offense is pretty awesome and fun to watch. 

Pitching: What was once this team's biggest weakness, TMO's pitching might actually be better than its offense. Las season saw 5 of TMO's pitcher accumulate more than 200ks. Clayton Kershaw (LAD - SP), who BTW was the only pitcher with 300 Ks last season, echoes back to times of Pedro Martinez and Randy Johnson where the smartest move was to sit your players against them. Kershaw is great but he was amazingly not the best overall pitcher in baseball last year as that title went to Jake Arrieta (ChC - SP), also on TMO. So, if Kershaw and Arrieta are in a class by themselves here, then Gerrit Cole (Pit - SP), Sonny Gray (Oak - SP), Carlos Carrasco (Cle - SP) and Cole Hamels (Tex - SP) are only a few steps behind as all are also 200k members. You could easily add Garrett Richards (LAA - SP) to that list if he had not been recovering from a knee injury early in the season. Sophomore lefty Eduardo Rodriguez (Bos - SP), a Rule-5 pick worthy of keeping, was impressive last season while prospects Daniel Norris (Det - SP), who is recovering from being diagnosed with cancer, and Luis Severino (NYY - SP), who pitched well in limited duty will both have to fight for a rotation spot in order to be productive. Closers Craig Kimbrel (Bos - RP), Wade Davis (KC - RP) and Cody Allen (Cle - RP) will look to be one of the top end of game trios in the game. This is a very talented pitching corps with the crazy to potential to get better.  

Draft: Never one to shy away from talent and youth, look for TMO to select the best possible player available and if forced to do so groom them for the next level while continuing to reload. 

Prediction:
RD 1: Anderson Espinoza (Bos - SP) - Many believe him to be next best pitching prospect in baseball
RD 2: Jose de Leon (LAD - SP) - Skyrocketing up prospect rankings and potential to be top of rotation talent
RD 3: AJ Reed (Hou - 1B) - Big bopper looks poised to become power producer in Houston
RD 4: Alexi Bell (FA - OF) - Cuban import hasn't signed but could be Jose Abreu-lite when he signs
RD 5: Welington Castillo (Ari - C) - Good young run producer at a thin position
RD 6: duardo Rodriguez (Bos - SP) - R5 Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Isan Diaz (Ari - 2B) - Hit .360 in Rookie ball and at 19 could be heir to Cano
RD 2: Jacob Nottingham (Mil - C) - Maybe the best hitting catcher in baseball right now
RD 3: Alex Verdugo (LAD - OF) - Keeper

2016 Third Day Team Preview

Josh Donaldson (Tor - 3B)

Summary: Bats? Got em. Closers? Got em. Quality starting pitchers? Got a couple of them.  The offense of Third Day (TD) will carry this team only so far and potentially to cusp of a championship but only a well-rounded team with quality pitching will carry this team to the promise land. 

Offense: TD's team featured some of the most potent bats during the 2015 season with AL-MVP Josh Donaldson (Tor - 3B) and AL home run champ Chris Davis (Bal - 1B,OF) both being rostered.  After that., TD has 20/30 player Adam Eaton (Ari - OF) as well as highly capable outfielders Jason Heyward (ChC - OF), who finds himself on a new team, and the dynamic Adam Jones (Bal - OF). Second baseman Brian Dozier (Min - 2B) continues to provide power stats at a premium position while TD has continued to increase its position versatility with vet Jhonny Peralta (Stl - SS), Korean success Jung Ho Kang (Pit - 3B,SS) and Cuban import Yasmany Tomas (Ari - 3B,OF).  Catcher Jonathan Lucroy (Mil - C,1B) looks to once again be among the best offensive backstops in the league and R5 draftee Josh Reddick (Oak - OF) can rake when healthy. Sophomore Eddie Rosario (Min - OF) finished 6th in AL ROY voting while rookies Byron Buxton (Min - OF), who likely is the front runner for 2016 AL ROY, and LSU alum Mikie Mahtook (TB - OF) all look to capitalize on their forthcoming opportunities. World Series champ prospect Raul Mondesi (KC - SS) and Clint Coulter (Mil - OF) both look capable of taking the next step with possibilities for stardom.  TD has done a nice job building the foundation here and will need to continue to smartly add and subtract in order to stay close to to the top. There is a nice combination of bats and emerging youth on this team with little to gripe about.

Pitching: If there is a weakness on this team, it likely resides in the lack of refinement in its pitching staff. Lefty Chris Sale (ChW - SP) and 2014 NL ROY Jacob deGrom (NYM - SP) are the clear class acts on this team as no other rostered arm registered moe than 6 wins last season.  That is not to say that the team lacks talent as starter Shelby Miller (Ari - SP) was a tough luck loser while Zack Wheeler (NYM - SP) is recovering from TJ surgery. Reds hurlers Raisel Iglesias (Cin - SP) and Brandon Finnegan (Cin - SP,RP) all figure to be better than their 2015 numbers indicate though there is a question if Finnegan will start or relieve. Prospects Henry Owens 9Bos - SP) and Archie Bradley (Ari - SP) finally received a cup of coffee late during the season leaving them poised to make an impact this season. Closers Zach Britton (Bal - RP), Trevor Rosenthal (Stl - RP) and Ken Giles (Hou - RP), if he closes, will give TD something few teams have, 3 capable fulll-time closers. Quality pitching stats will be key here and adding quality starters will be this team's undoing or allow them to stay in contention.

Draft: As mentioned above, MLB ready pitching will be important to TD's success so finding arms able to help now might be the best course of action. Asian import Kenta Meada (LAD - SP) would be a logical selection here to keep the status quo. Veteran starters Jason Hammel (ChC - SP) or Kyle Hendricks (ChC - SP) might be possible options here as well. 

Prediction:
RD 1: Kenta Meada (LAD - SP) - Might give Third Day its best chance to continue to repeat past performance
RD 2: Kyle Hendricks (ChC - SP) - Young and plays on a good team, wins will come as he progresses
RD 3: Tyler Jay (Min - SP) - 2015 1st RD draft pick that appears more polished than a normal lefty prep arm
RD 4: Franklin Barreto (Oak - SS) - Jury still out if he can man an infield spot, if not, his value shrinks
RD 5: Josh Reddick (Oak - OF) - R5 Keeper
RD 6: Clint Coulter (Mil - OF) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Cody Reed (Cin - SP) - Potentially the biggest acquisition from the Johnny Cueto trade 
RD 2: Gilbert Lara (Mil - 3B) - Keeper
RD 3: Derek Fisher (Hou - OF) - Keeper

2016 Semper Ubi Sub Ubi Team Preview

JD Martinez (Det - OF)

Summary:  In terms of day-to-day transactions and maneuvering, Semper Ubi Sub Ubi (SUBU) remains amongst the best in the league.  What is lacks in star power, it makes up with in moxy and strategy. If that can continue, SUBU will once again find itself in contention looking for more. 

Offense:  Two years ago JD Martinez was picked up by SUBU, a decision that has paid dividends as Martinez has hit 61 homers in the last two seasons and provided the SUBU their only 100 RBI bat in 2015. In fact, no other player aside from Jay Bruce (Cin - OF), who seems to be on a downswing, hit more than 25 long balls.  The team lacks any true superstars though it still possesses the veteran leadership of Evan Longoria (TB - 3B) and world champ Ben Zobrist (ChC - 2B,OF), though the latter has lost shortstop eligibility.  Second baseman Jose Altuve (Hou - 2B), with 3-stat contributions, is likely the best player here and when combined with fellow-speedsters Billy Hamilton (Cin - OF) and veteran Brett Garnder (NYY - OF) SUBU's stolen base totals are going to be tough to beat.  The one heralded Brandon Belt (SF - 1B,OF) will still be a nice option at first base which will help and growing pains Cuban Jorge Soler (ChC - OF) might have if platooned. Playoff phenom Michael Conforto (NYM - OF) proved the hype was real and will hope future performance mirrors those in October and Rule-5 pick Devin Mesoraco (Cin - C) might be the league's best off-season move. Prospects Ozhaino Albies (Atl - SS), Clint Frazier (Cle - OF) and Raimel Tapia (Col - OF) remain fairly far away but all remain worthy keepers for the future.  As already mentioned, SUBU's strategy is second to none though it will need some sure things to count.  Adding a starting shortstop will also be a needed move to begin the season. 

Pitching: Leading the way for SUBU's pitching staff is the two-headed monster in the form of Madison Bumgarner (SF - SP) and Chris Archer (TB - SP) as both registered well more than 200Ks last season. The polished Michael Wacha (Stl - SP) was a nice asset on his way to winning 17 games while youngsters Jake Odorizzi (TB - SP), lefty James Paxton (Sea - SP) and Aaron Nola (Phi - SP) each provided bright sparks for their teams. Prospects Chi Chi Gonzalez (Tex - SP) and Erik Johnson (ChW - SP) looked capable during their limited time while SUBU waits for the talented arms of Tyler Glasnow (Pit - SP), Kohl Stewart (Min - SP) and Jeff Hoffman (Col - SP) to arrive.  Closers Mark Melancon (Pit - RP) and Kenley Jansen (LAD - RP) are highly capable 9th inning studs that will be counted on to hold down the fort.  After Bumgarner, Archer and to some degree Wacha, this team will be counting on a lot of production from unproven, though, capable hurlers. Adding more here in terms of relievers, starters and talented prospects will not be a bad idea. 

Draft: Finding a player on the cusp of stardom is as much about timing as it is about opportunity. Armed with the 10th overall pick, SUBU will be searching for the best player available this season and possibly in the future and all of the sabremetrics seem to say that reliever Brad Boxberger (TB - RP) might be the next great potential closer. If Boxberger isn't the choice here, then Japanese import Kenta Meada (LAD - SP), who will contribute right away, and David Hernandez (Phi - RP) or Jake Mcgee (Col - RP) could all be options. 

Prediction:
RD 1: Brad Boxberger (TB - RP) - Might be the next best thing closing games in the majors
RD 2: Fernando Rodney (SD - RP) - Pitching in SD isn't the worst thing and saves are saves
RD 3: Alcides Escobar (KC - SS) - Team needs a starting SS as it awaits the arrival of Albies
RD 4: Andrew Cashner (SD - SP) - Always has been one of the most talented arms when healthy
RD 5: Devin Mesoraco (Cin - C) - R5 Keeper
RD 6: Ozhaino Albies (Atl - SS) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Brady Aiken (Cle - SP) - 2x 1st RD draftee is a rare power lefty arm
RD 2: Garrett Whitley (TB - OF) - 2015 draftee possess one of best prep bats available
RD 3: Jack Flaherty (Stl - SP) - Projectable size, frame, and one of the most polished arms 

2016 Lovable Losers Team Preview

Dee Gordon (Mia - 2B)

Summary: Lovable Losers (LL) has some definite question marks but also possesses some sure things.  So, the question remains, will the question marks become the answers this team needs to contend?  That remains to be seen so stockpiling needed MLB ready, or close to MLB ready pitching, will be this team's main goal early on during the season. 

Offense:  LL's team was championed last season by Edwin Encarnacion (Tor - 1B) and speedster Dee Gordon and, who led his league in steals and hits.  Hot corner Todd Frazier (ChW - 3B) finds himself on a new team but with the same offensive potential, WS champ Lorenzo Cain (KC - OF) remains a 20/20 candidate and Adam Eaton (ChW - OF) does as well though not to the same degree. Dodgers first baseman Adrian Gonzalez (LAD - 1B) still has a lot in the tank while rookies Matt Duffy (SF - 2B,3B) and Odubel Herrera (Phi - OF) sorta shocked the world with their production, a feat tough to repeat. NL champ Lucas Duda (NYM - 1B) remains fairly one-dimensional with power with hopes that rookies Joey Gallo (Tex - 3B,OF) and Richie Shaffer (TB - 1B) are capable of more than just power in the long-run, something the dynamic George Springer (Hou - OF) proved last season. Rounding out LL's active bats is Stephen Vogt (Oak - C,1B), who remains one of the better fantasy catchers. The prospect foursome of Trea Turner (Was - SS), Tim Anderson (ChW - SS), Jesse Winker (Cin - OF) and Daniel Robertson (TB - 3B) are all easily amongst the top impact players that may be called up this season. LL's nucleus is very strong and should continue that trend this season. Being able to add quality rookie and prospect production could push this team to the next level. 

Pitching:  A smart 2015 trade netted ace Zack Greinke (Ari - SP) last season and, though he has switched teams, remains very valuable.  The same thing can be said about Max Sherzer (Was - SP) as he hopes his 2016 team becomes the team is was expected to be last season. After that fearsome duo, things get tricky with youngsters Trevor Bauer (Cle - SP) and Michael Pineda (NYY - SP) as the next best with both having better than an 8.0K/9 ratio. Rounding out the rotation is Andrew Heaney (LAA - SP), who needs to strikeout more out, starter (sometimes reliever) Derek Holland (Tex - SP), who has all of the potential in the world but has failed to remain healthy and the same can be said for Rule-5 pick Patrick Corbin (Ari - SP), who if healthy will be a worthwhile keep. Compounding this thin group of starters are the question marks in its relief core with AJ Ramos (Mia - RP) not guaranteed a closing spot and Carson Smith (Bos - RP) buried down the bullpen depth chart despite his flame-throwing arm.  This group has some talent on top, some potential in the middle, but a lot of questions near the bottom.  Adding capable pitching will be critical to this team's survival. 

Draft:  Pitching will be key and will need to bee addressed early and often to keep pace this leaving Vanderbilt righty Carson Fulmer (ChW - SP) as a nice potential addition with the USCB's Dillon Tate (Tex - SP) and Brad Boxberger (TB - RP) as other potential selections. 

Prediction:
RD 1: Carson Fulmer (ChW - SP) - College arm is very polished and would be a nice fit
RD 2: Jean Segura (Ari - SS) - LL needs a rental until Anderson and/or Turner are ready for the show
RD 3: Michael Fulmer (Det - SP) - The other Fulmer, while not as coveted still has body and velocity to stick
RD 4: James Kaprielian (NYY - SP) - UCLA 1st RD draftee fits the trend of fast moving pitchers
RD 5: Jose Peraza (Cin - 2B) - Looks like the Reds 2B of the future but blocked, speedster will show up 
RD 6: Patrick Corbin (Ari - SP) - R5 Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Ian Happ (ChC - 2B) - University of Cincinnati alum has a strong bat at a valuable position
RD 2: Jorge Ona (FA - OF) - Age and body to be a star, Jorge Soler clone?
RD 3: Garrett Holmes (LAD - SP) - Keeper

2016 Dylon Spit Fiyah Team Preview

Glen Perkins (Min - RP)

Summary:  Being new this league will put Dylan Spit Fiyah (DSF) at a disadvantage but his team is talented enough to help him hit the running. This team got hot in the playoffs last season and slightly over-achieved to place 3rd overall. Is it capable of repeating that success and potentially more in 2016?  
Offense:  DSF's team is led mainly by perennial MVP candidate Andrew McCutchen (Pit - OF), who had another fine 2015 season.  After Cutch, the gap in talent is fairly large with Charlie Blackmon (Col - OF), a Coors Field luxury, and WS Champ Mike Moustakas (KC - 3B), who finally put together a fine season.  Potential player who will see a dip in value will be former catchers Evan Grattis (Hou - OF) and (Cle - 1B) because both lose catcher eligibility entering this season.  Compounding that loss of versatility is the question of whether or not Brandon Crawford (SF - SS) and fellow infielder Danny Valencia (Oak - 3B,OF) can repeat their recent production. Helping those losses will hopefully be a healthy Matt Holliday (Stl - OF), at age 36, Mark Teixeria (NYY - 1B), who will be turning 36 but led this roster in long balls last season, and Alex Rios (FA - OF) who has yet to sign anywhere entering his age-35 season. Second year starter Rougned Odor (Mil - 2B) will look to continue to improve while Rule-5 draftee Alex Gordon (KC - OF) looks rosterable though a better reality player than fantasy. Prospects Aaron Judge (NYY - OF) and Ryan McMahon (Col - 3B) both look like the real deal and will be counted on if called up. There are some worries regarding aging/oft-injured vets, counting on players to once again have career years and addressing the absence of a catcher will place a heavy load on DSF's shoulders. Basically DSF will have a small window of contention and if things don't work out, they will have to cut bait and get back on the track to rebuilding. 

Pitching: Former-Cy Young winner Corey Kluber actually led the league in losses last season after posting 18 wins the year prior, look for the latter rather than the former moving forward. Matt Harvey (NYM - SP) rebounded nicely after recovering from TJ surgery and DSF will hope Yu Darvish (Tex - SP) can do the same when he is able to return to the mound. Underrated arms Collin McHugh (Hou - SP), Tom Koehler (Mia - SP) and Hector Santiago (LAA - SP) are nice middle rotation options while Francisco Liriano (Pit - SP) has ace potential at all times. Hurlers CJ Wilson (LAA - SP), who is past his prime, and Mike Leake (SF - SP), who will not hurt anything moving to a more spacious stadium, are both better reality players due to their lack of strikeouts. DSF will also need to worry about Jesse Hahn (Oak - SP) and his elbow as he was injured down the stretch. Something this team shouldn't worry about are closers David Robertson (ChW - RP) and Glen Perkins (Min - RP) as they form one of the most formidable 9th inning duos in the league. Pitchers will need to stay healthy and DSF should look to find high-upside arms to counteract some of its good but not great arms.

Draft: With the possibility of Brandon Crawford (SF - SS) showing his true average player talents, Cubs Gleyber Torres (ChC - 2B,SS) would make a fine selection here and ends the tope tier of shortstop prospects available. If offense isn't the right direction, then college arms Dillon Tate (Tex - SP) and Carson Fulmer (ChW - SP) could be possible picks. 

Prediction:
RD 1: Gleyber Torres (ChC - 2B,SS) - A fast moving offensive prospect that will push his way into Cubs lineup
RD 2: Russell Martin (Tor - C) - Team will need to address missing catcher and Martin is a fine for a contender
RD 3: Wei-Yin Chen (Mia - SP) - Much better than most believe, wins games
RD 4: Willson Contreras (ChC - C) - Could be best catching prospect and replace Martin if drafted
RD 5: Alex Gordon (KC - OF) - R5 Keeper
RD 6: Ryan McMahon (Col - 3B) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Kyle Tucker (Hou - OF) - Nice predigree 1st RD draftee and a very projectable frame to build on 
RD 2: Andy Ibanez (Tex - 2B) - Could be best 2B prospect in baseball, low risk gamble here
RD 3: Dae-ho Lee (Sea - 1B) - Not in Yahoo database and could pay big dividends if Korean numbers translate

2016 Jackie Treehorn Team Preview

Kyle Seager (Sea - 3B)

Summary:  The team Jackie Treehorn (JT) has put together is quickly improving with little aging veteran clutter to hold it down.  Adding to the fact that it's offense and pitching staff are about on par with each other, it remains one of the more well balanced and capable teams in the league when fully health. 

Offense:  Led by former-MVP and top catcher Buster Posey (SF - C), JT 's offense looks pretty good on paper.  Along with Posey, JT features Top 5 talents their positions in slugger Jose Abreu (ChW - 1B) and the ever-improving Kyle Seager (Sea - 3B), who may be this team's most important piece before too long.  Other keystone look to be World Series champ Eric Hosmer (KC - 1B), junior Mookie Betts (Bos - OF) and Carlos Gomez (Hou - OF), who finds himself in a better offensive home for a full season. Surprises from last season include Justin Bour (Mia - 1B), who finished 5th in NL ROY voting, Kole Calhoun (LAA - OF), who still needs to improve against lefties, Matt Carpenter (Stl - 2B,3B), who traded in his contact approach for power while teammates Kolton Wong (Stl - 2B) and Stephen Piscotty (Stl - OF,1B) both had a late surges. Infielders Brett Lawrie (ChW - 2B,3B) had his best season yet in 2015, Jason Kipnis (Cle - 2B) had a decent bounce back season and now-Yankee Starlin Castro (NYY - 2B,SS) looks to be placeholder at this point as he has yet to capture his potential. Prospect Mitch Nay (Tor - 3B) is still young and posses sure power at the next level. This is a nice group of bats with valuable versatility that should improve with proper pick-ups and drafting. Adding a shortstop for the future will be one of the only moves this team needs to make.  

Pitching: While JT has never been the greatest pitching staff in the league, it has always been serviceable and that trend will continue with the gutsy Adam Wainwright (Stl - SP) recovering from TJ surgery as the team's main ace when healthy.  Joining Waino atop the rotation will be Jeff Samardzija (ChW - SP) and the SD duo Tyson Ross (SD - SP) and James Shields (SD - SP), both of whom had more than 200Ks in 2015. Oft-injured starters Homer Bailey (Cin - SP), projected to return in May, and Jamie Garcia (Stl - SP), who rebounded last season, will look to capitalize on opportunity while Doug Fister (Hou - SP,RP) experiences a downgrade moving to Houston and Brandon Beachy (LAD - SP) looks replaceable at this point. Relievers Hector Rodon (ChC - RP) will be counted on a lot especially with Greg Holland (KC - RP) basically taking a mulligan as he recovers from TJ surgery and Andrew Miller (NYY - RP) being passed over as a closer. Selecting Rangers closer Shawn Tolleson (Tex - RP) in the Rule-5 draft helps temper the losses of Holland and Miller. Finding more talent for the rotation will be helpful but it should be possible and potentially adding another closer might work as well. 

Draft:  With Rodgers and Swanson potentially already selected, LSU alum Alex Bregman (Hou - SS) becomes a logical selection here with the uncertainty of Castro's future. Gleyber Torres (ChC - 2B,SS) might also be a nice pickup here as could be Japanese import Kenta Meada (LAD - SP) as well as 2015 college MLB draftees Dillon Tate (Tex - SP) and Carson Fulmer (ChW - SP). 

Prediction:
RD 1: Alex Bregman (Hou - SS) - The next best shortstop selection and a nice replacement for Castro
RD 2: Anthony Alford (Tor - OF) - One of the highest prospect risers with some of the best tools
RD 3: Khris Davis (Oak - OF) - New ballpark and better team should make him more valuable
RD 4: Drew Storen (Tor - RP) - Reports say he may be the front runner in Toronto to close
RD 5: Shawn Tolleson (Tex - RP) - R5 Keeper
RD 6: Mitch Nay (Tor - 3B) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Lazaro Armentaros (FA - OF) - Yet to sign but would be a amongst top prospect OFs where he does
RD 2: Jermaine Palacios (Min - 3B) - Hit over .400 in rookie ball, many believe he could be next best 3B prospect
RD 3: Adam Walker (Min - OF) - Keeper

2016 Slimedog Team Preview

Hisashi Iwakuma (Sea - SP)

Summary:  If Slimedog (SD) can stay healthy and all of his once ailing potential stars recovery and stay healthy, SD could once again enter contention.  Adding some MLB contributors while continuing to prepare for the future should this team up for the success now now or in the future. 

Offense:  SD's offense features two likely first rounds talents in the phenomenal Mike Trout (LAA - OF) and the dynamic Manny Machado (Bal - 3B).  The next rounds of bats aren't quite as potent but are just a notch below with Freddie Freeman (Atl - 1B) and Justin Upton (Det - OF) capable of All-Star seasons.  Speaking of All-Stars, 2014 standout Michael Brantley (Cle - OF), who's 2015 season is likely his norm, is capable is repeating last season while Jonathan Schopp (Bal - 2B) and Christian Yelich (Mia - OF) are actually more talented than they have shown.  Sophomores Corey Seager (LAD - SS) and Orlando Arcia (Mil - SS) look to improve on their late season call-ups and remain two valuable young shortstops going forward.  Former-LSU alum DJ LeMahieu (Col - 2B) has the body and frame to hit for more power though he currently does everything else well including playing a premium position.  On the farm, SD has arguably the best 3B prospect in baseball in Renato Nunez (Oak - 3B), Vladimir Guerrero's slugging nephew Gabby Guerrero (Ari - OF) and Rockies shortstop Rosell Herrera (Col - SS), who has remained stagnant in A+ ball.  Adding Matt Wieters (Bal - C) was a nice boon addition in the Rule-5 draft that figures to stick.  While this offense isn't necessarily deep in some spots, it is most impressive in other areas.  Adding some MLB depth at some power positions, especially as it waits on Nunez to mature, would be logical moves. 

Pitching:  So...fun fact.  Of the 15 pitchers on SD's staff, 8 of them have either had Tommy John surgery or are currently recovering from said surgery.  In addition, prospect Hunter Harvey (Bal - SP) probably still needs the elbow surgery and 2015 import Masahiro Tanaka (NYY - SP), who had a nice 2015, had some burn spurs removed removed from his elbow this Fall.  Still, this year is the should catch the majority of SD's on the upswing of their recovery with many predicted to thrive.  Going along with SD's talented bats are its volatile but potent of arms led by Jose Fernandez (Mia - SP), who pre-injury was one of the best starters in baseball, Stephen Strasburg (Was - SP), who had a great 2015 season averaging 11 K/IP, and Mike Moore (TB - SP), who came back last year from TJ and will be looking for better this season.  Post-season dynamo Steven Martz (NYM - SP) and ROY candidate Lance McCullers (Hou - RP) will be amazing if they can bring forth their same effort and Hisashi Iwakuma (Sea - SP) is one of the more underrated arms in the majors.  Help could also be on the way with Alex Cobb (TB - SP), who should return in may, and Dylan Bundy (Bal - SP), still a fine prospect and could still be the best arm in the minors when healthy.  Prospect arms waiting in the wings round out wit Jameson Taillon (Pit - SP), looking forward to a 2016 season after recovering from injury, Braden Shipley (Ari - SP), a 2013 1st RD draft pick along with Lucas Giolito (Was - SP) and Julio Urias (LAD - SP), both of which are Top 10 young pitching arms in the minors.  Being void of relievers does not bode well for Slimedog if it wants to compete so adding a closer or two could go a long way.  Still, this is an impressive young group of hurlers. 

Draft:  Armed with the 5th overall selection, SD might looks towards the present over the future in order to compete.  Picking a good closer on a good team might be an logical avenue making Santiago Casilla (SF - RP) and his 38 saves a nice choice or potentially selecting potential star Brad Boxberger (TB - RP) might be a worthwhile gamble.  If this team goes young, then AJ Reed (Hou - 1B) could be a nice young power option. 

Prediction:
RD 1: Santiago Casilla (SF - RP) - On a good team and likely the best closer available 
RD 2: Jake McGee (Col - RP) - Should be a nice closer with some good K potential 
RD 3: Adam Lind (Sea - 1B) - Would provide a nice veteran bat to spell 1B and utility spots
RD 4: Matt Wieters (Bal - C) - R5 Keeper
RD 5: Gabby Guerrero (Ari - OF) - Keeper
RD 6: Runato Nunez (Oak - 3B) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Daz Cameron (Hou - OF) - 1st RD talent that many have forgotten, nice pedigree
RD 2: Triston McKenzie (Cle - SP) - Big projectable frame capable of reaching the top of a rotation
RD 3: Dae-ho Lee (Sea - 1B) - Not in Yahoo database, could be a fast rise to majors based on Korean numbers

2016 Hair of the Dog Fred Team Preview

Nelson Cruz (Sea - OF)

Summary:  The coming season will be very telling for Hair of the Dog Fred (HODF) as its offensive looks capable while its thin pitching appears a possible achilles heel compared to more well-rounded teams.  Finding that happy medium will be the challenge while it looks to fill future voids that will eventually arrive but hopefully not too soon. 

Offense:  HODF features some nice bats with two of the best being the sneaky fast Paul Goldschmidt (Ari - 1B) and boom stick slugger Nelson Cruz (Sea - OF) as both accounted for 77 homers and more than 200 RBIs last season.  Going along with Cruz and Goldschmidt are 2016 rebounders Prince Fielder (Tex - 1B) and NL champ Curtis Granderson (NYM - OF), both of whom had their best seasons since 2012.  After that, things get a lot more questionable with backstop Yan Gomes (Cle - C) regressing since being promoted to full-time catcher while veterans Brandon Phillips (Cin - 2B), Yunel Escobar (LAA - 3B,SS) and David Wright (NYM - 3B) are serviceable but figure to be well past their primes, which is especially sad for Wright as he is only 33 but oft-injured.  Former All-Star Jose Reyes (Col - SS), Bill Burns (Oak - OF),Ender Inciarte (Ari - OF) and Ben Revere (Was - OF) look to be one-dimensional but are in nice advantageous offensive environments.  Talented darkhorses still remain on this team with league darling Marcell Ozuna (Mia - OF), David Peralta (Ari - OF), Wil Myers (SD - OF) and Steven Souza (Was - OF) are all dynamic players yet to reach their peaks which could happen as soon as this season.  Prospects Braldey Zimmer (Cle - OF), who tore up the minor last season, and Manuel Margot (SD - OF) remain fine investments but there might be too many young OF's here.  HODF is a capable team but it does need some attention.  Speed does not look to be a problem going forward though investing in some more rounded players might pay dividends.  Third-base also appears to be a future liability but these look addressable at a later date.  The possibility of keeping Rule-5 keeper Elvis Andrus (Tex - SS) fixes the same problem at shortstop.  

Pitching:   The pitching staff of this team, while thin, does roster a nice trio or arms with Johnny Cueto (SF - SP), Jon Lester (ChC - SP) and Gio Gonzalez (Was - SP) as the logical top men in the rotation.  Next up would likely be the underrated innings eater Jose Quintana (ChW - SP) but that is where the sure things in the rotation end because there is no more starting pitchers.  Lefty prospect Rob Kaminsky (Cle - SP) remains very polished but has yet to pitch above A-ball leaving a large void on this team.  Also, 2016 closer Luke Gregerson (Hou - RP) has seemingly lose his 9th inning spot, K artist Dellin Betances (NYY - RP), who many thought would get a 9th inning gig will not, which gives HODF only Brad Ziegler (Ari - RP) as a resource for saves.  While there are other needs on this team, addressing the pitching situation, or lack there of, seems paramount above all else. 

Draft:  With the lack of quality pitching in mind, the selection of Ian Snell (TB - SP) seems like the best selection as he remains the closest and likely best pitching prospect available.  Many believe he could make his MLB debut as soon as this season in fact, a promotion that could not be more welcomed on this team.  If pitching is not the direction for the 1st RD pick, then a shortstop with the possibility of moving to 3B might be the answer leading to Alex Bregman (Hou - SS) as a possibility. 

Prediction:
RD 1:  Ian Snell (TB - SP) - If pitching is the direction here, then this is a no-brainer selection here 
RD 2:  Jason Hammel (ChC - SP) - Good team and adds to the dire need of arms for HODF
RD 3:  Anibal Sanchez (Det - SP) - Had a late season resurgence that proved he's still very talented
RD 4:  Jayson Werth (Was - OF) - Might be a nice cheap source of power when healthy 
RD 5:  Elvis Andrus (Tex - SS) - R5 Keeper
RD 6:  Rob Kaminsky (Stl - SP) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Josh Hader (Mil - SP) - Nice pitching prospect with great strikeout potential  
RD 2: Austin Riley (Atl - 3B) - Might be the best 3B prospect available, low risk selection 
RD 3: Dorssys Paulino (Cle - SS) - Keeper

2016 Chevy Chase Coopers Team Preview

Kyle Schwarber (ChC - C,OF)

Summary:  The former league champion has fallen on hard times in terms of record.  Chevy Chase Cooper's (CCC) offense was actually pretty good though the same cannot be said for its pitching. Still, there are some nice quality players and some sell high veterans that, if dealt, would form a nice foundation for a future competing team.

Offense:  CCC's offense experienced a surprising renaissance with veteran sluggers such as David Ortiz (Bos - 1B) at age 40, Alex Rodriguez (NYY - Util) at age 40, and Albert Pujouls (LAA - 1B) at age 36 all producing better numbers than most expected.  Still, father time catches up to us all as we witnessed last season with Jacoby Ellsbury (NYY - OF), Pablo Sandoval (Bos - 3B) and Hanley Ramirez (Bos - OF), a Rule-5 pick that loses value without 3B or SS eligibility.  CCC might do well to prepare for an aging exodus by selling high and building for the future in an attempt to replace their numbers.  Speaking of a rebounds, outfielder Shin-Soo Choo (Tex - OF) had a nice season but no longer runs at age 33 world champ Kendry Morales (KC - 1B) had a great season despite a reduction in homers at age 32 while catcher Brian McCann (NYY - C) had a Top 10 season and will remain an asset moving forward.  Infielder Andrelton Simmons (LAA - SS) is an amazing shortstop but a much better gloveman than a Batman, more of a Robin actually.  If we want to talk to about true surprises, former-phenom Cameron Maybin (Atl - OF) finally tapped into his potential for his age 28 season while Joe Panik (SF - 2B) outplayed his projections before slowing down in the 2nd half.  Despite opposing pitchers trying, there was no slowing down prospects Miguel Sano (Min - 3B), as he capitalized on his talents with 18 homers in just 219 at bats, and the same can be said for playoff gem Kyle Schwarber, as he hit 16 homers in just 232 at bats.  There is a lot of young talent waiting in the wings as prospects David Dahl (Col - OF), Nomar Mazara (Tex - OF) and Blake Swihart (Bos - C), heir to McCann, look poised to contribute in 2016 while uber-prospect Rafael Devers (Bos - 3B) remains in the hole.  This team has some valuable pieces but the mix of old and young, with little players at their peak, remains concerning. Consistently hitting with draftees (ala Sano and Schwarber) and selling on vets with a little left in the tank to a contender will go a long way making this team a contender once again. 

Pitching:  Something that has slowly deteriorated over the years for CCC has been its pitching staff.  Veteran Scott Kazmir (LAD - SP) leads this set of arms but he was just recently out of baseball before making a successful $48 million comeback.  While Kazmir might get the attention, youngsters Julio Teharen (Atl - SP) and Noah Snydergaard (NYM - SP) possess the most talent and are both capable of ace numbers.  After that trio, things start the get murky ace former-ace Justin Verlander (Det - SP) has continued to fade the last couple of years and the same could be said about John Lackey (ChC - SP), though he figures to play for a winner in 2016.  Mike Foltynewicz (Atl - SP) remains a crazy talented arm though his results have yet to show that.  First round prospects Mark Appel (Phi - SP) and Sean Manaea (KC - SP) remain intriguing arms but they both have a lot to prove at the high levels.  Relievers are also lacking on this team though it might not be prudent to over-react as they can be had with timing and smart pickups.  Still, finding capable pitchers will be a crucial need for this team going forward. 

Draft:  With Simmons being a much better reality player than a fantasy player and since this such a strong year for shortstops in this draft, it would't be surprising to see Vanderbilt infielder Dansby Swanson (Atl - SS) selected with the 1st round pick here.  An argument might be made for Alex Bregman (Hou - SS) or Blake Snell (TB - SP) here but Swanson figures to fill a more viable need.  

Prediction:
RD 1:  Darby Swanson (Atl - SS) - 2015 MLB 1st overall draft pick and looks to stay at shortstop
RD 2:  David Hernandez (Phi - RP) - Strikeout artist looks to have full-time closer gig 
RD 3:  Jeremy Jeffress (Mil - RP) - Always had an amazing arm but could finally put it together as a closer
RD 4:  Hanley Ramirez (Bos - OF) - R5 Keeper
RD 5:  Rafael Devers (Bos - 3B) - Keeper
RD 6:  Nomar Mazara (Tex - OF) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1: Vladimir Gutierrez (FA - SP) - Cuban free agent yet to sign but will a top pitching prospect when he does
RD 2: Demi Orimoloeye (Mil - OF) - All the tools in the world, starting to put it together to be complete 
RD 3: Yusniel Diaz (LAD - OF) - Appears to be a mini-Yoenis Cespedes at age 19, good gamble, could be more

2016 Beer & Bat Brigade Team Preview

Yoenis Cespedes (NYM - OF)

Summary:  Beer and Brat Brigade (BBB) remains a potent team despite last season's struggles.  The iron is still hot as its offense, while not deep, is still capable, and its pitching remains formidable while more talent coming. Look for this team to keep adding valuable players and finishing the season better than last season. 

Offense:  BBB's offense was actually a lot better than many would believe for a team that finished 11th during the regular season. The team had 3 active players with more than 20 homers including outfielders Matt Kemp (SD - OF) and Yoenis Cespedes (NYM - OF) leading the way as each tallied 100 or more RBI's.  Joining Kemp and Cespedes was Joc Pederson (LAD - OF) who had a terrific All-Star 1st half with 20 homers but only 6 more in the 2nd half.  Interestingly enough, Pederson hit 20 of those homers off righties so it appeared the league figured him out some so it will be important to see if he can adjust.  Fellow-outfielder Hunter Pence (SF - OF) suffered from an injury marred season but looks to remain an asset as will Ryan Zimmerman (Was - 1B), who is now only eligible at first base but hopefully that move will limit his injuries.  Former-MVP Dustin Pedroia (Bos - 2B) isn't the same type of player he once was but remains very valuable and fellow infielder Ian Desmond (Was - SS) has yet to sign with a team will look to be a Top 10 talent at his position once he finds a home.  Three bagger Maikel Franco (Phi - 3B) has a very productive rookie season as did fellow first year players Devon Travis (Tor - 2B) and Travis Shaw (Bos - 1B,3B) in limited action. Youngster Max Kepler (Min - OF) and Gary Sanchez (NYY - C) each had a small cup of coffee last season while the jury is still out on Casey Gillaspie (TB - 1B), who has yet to have a MLB at-bat.  While this team has some bats, it is not very deep, and finding some young bonafide depth to help this shallow offense will go a long way.  The catcher position will need to be addressed since Sanchez is not slatted to start at catcher for the foreseeable future it will force BBB to draft one in vein of Russell Martin (Tor - C), Derek Norris (SD - C,1B) or Wellington Castillo (ChC - C). Also, this team is lacking in speed with only Travis really counted on for stolen bases. 

Pitching:  Like BBB's offense, the pitching staff is also quite top-heavy but it does roster some talented young reserves.  Stud arm David Price (Bos - SP) leads this arsenal of arms with Jordan Zimmermann (Det - SP) acting as his main sidekick.  After that dynamic duo, lower-tier arms Danny Salazar (Cle - SP), Drew Smyly (TB - SP) and Taijuan Walker (Sea - SP) were productive last season and all are capable of ascending to the next level during the new season.  Carl Edwards, Jr. (ChC - SP) looks good in limited action but his role in Chicago is up in the air and the same can be said for the talented, yet inconsistent Rule-5 draftee, Jon Gray (Col - SP) whose results have not matched his triple-digit stuff.  The calvary resides in the youthful potency of Kyle Zimmer (KC - SP), Lucas Sims (Atl - SP), Vanderbilt arm Tyler Beede (SF - SP) and fire-baller Tyler Kolek (Mia - SP) are all legit prospect arms on the cusp of the majors.  Rounding out the staff are relievers Aroldis Chapman (NYY - RP), who is likely the best closer in baseball, Jonathan Papelbon (Was - RP), who is still capable despite struggles, and setup-man Corey Knebel, who might be closing by the end of the season.  BBB's staff doesn't look to have the same struggles as its offense as its been cushioned with enough prospect arms yet adding a reliable major league starter couldn't hurt. 

Draft:  2016 looks to be the year of the shortstop prospect and while Desmond is only 30 it might be foolhardy to pass on a high-level SS prospect with no in-house backup.  For the 1st round, selecting a shortstop out of high school over college makes sense and it will allow that player to take over in a couple years.  This leaves Brendan Rodgers (Col - SS) a sound pick with the thought of him playing at Coors Field making him double intriguing. Fellow infield generals Orlando Arcia (Mil - SS) as wel as college draftees LSU's Alex Bragman and Vanderbilt alum Dansby Swanson (Atl - SS) will likely remain in the mix as well. 

Prediction:
RD 1:  Brendan Rodgers (Col - SS) - Logical pick here with Desmond already rostered
RD 2:  Brett Phillips (Mil - OF) - Strangely unkept last season but potential to be a MLB All-Star
RD 3:  Victor Robles (Was - OF) - Quickly moving up prospect rankings, all-around good
RD 4:  Derek Norris (SD - C) - Former-All-Star will be a fine placeholder as it waits on Sanchez 
RD 5:  Jon Gray (Col - SP) - R5 Keeper
RD 6:  Tyler Beede (SF - SP) - Keeper

Prospect Draft:
RD 1:  Eddy Martinez (ChC - OF) - Cuban outfielder looks to have big time power potential 
RD 2:  Kolby Allard (Atl - SP) - High velocity lefty looks to be assured a MLB career
RD 3:  Franklyn Kilome (Phi - SP) - Projectable at 6'6, hard thrower and could be big riser