Each year, pitchers are put on the back burner during the draft, and the "expert" owners take advantage of this by drafting great hitters early, then grabbing quality pitchers on good teams during the middle part of the draft. Mix in a couple of hitters that are due to break out, and you have a list of players who can help you win in 2007.
Brett Myers (RotoRank 60; Average Rank 102) – The Phillies are primed to make a run at the NL Pennant, and Brett Myers could lead the way. With his troubles at home seemingly under control, he could post a career high in Wins with the support he’ll get and a dedicated focus to pitching.
Coco Crisp (RotoRank 74; Average Rank 118) – Injuries hindered his 2006 campaign. Crisp has the ability to be a premiere leadoff hitter, and with all of the talent in the BOS lineup, he simple needs to stay healthy to post top 100 player numbers. Let him slide a round or two, then cash in on the profit.
Bronson Arroyo (RotoRank 84; Average Rank 162) – You can draft Harang at the Average Ranking of 86, or you can wait 5 rounds and get very similar value from Arroyo. Draft a speedster or Closer with pick 86, and get more pitching value later in the draft.
Chad Tracy (RotoRank 93; Average Rank 168) – He was my breakout candidate for 2006, but 2007 may actually be his year. A lot of young talented hitters will help Tracy post a career high in RBI this year.
Freddy Garcia (RotoRank 106; Average Rank 227) – Garcia never gets the respect that he deserves. I’m not sure why a move to the NL would hurt his perceived value so much, but let him slide and grab him near pick 200.
Cliff Lee (RotoRank 108; Average Rank 275) – Lee is my breakout candidate this year. He is on a very good team, and he has the ability to post good numbers as a starting pitcher. By the time pick 250 comes around, Cliff Lee will be jumping off the pages of the RotoRank Expert Draft Guide!
Mark Buerhle (RotoRank 112; Average Rank 235) – One bad year erased a lot of great seasons. CWS will have a good year in 2007, and Buerjle could be a big factor in their playoff run.
Kevin Millwood (RotoRank 119; Average Rank 230) – Millwood won the ERA title just 2 short years ago, and deserves a little more respect. He is definitely worth a look after pick 175.
Milton Bradley (RotoRank 151; Average Rank 221) – If Bradley stays healthy, he could have a career year and post top 100 numbers. If you get him near pick 200, you are getting a lot of upside potential.
David Dejesus (RotoRank 163; Average Rank 248) – KC is quietly putting together a young and talented lineup, and Dejesus will be the benefit from all of the new talent in the lineup. Grab him near pick 225, and you’ll be happy with his production.