It’s March and that means wind, Fantasy Baseball drafts, auctions, and baseball injuries. While many players will be available on Opening Day, fantasy owners should be aware of the hurler who already has shoulder or elbow problems or the aging slugger who is missing time with a bad back. The group is not exhaustive. It only ranks the top 200 players on several projection lists.
Starters
First some good news. Although Washington’s Max Scherzer will miss the opening day start due to a broken finger, he has made an exhibition start and is expected to pitch in the opening week.
The Indians Carlos Carrasco has been cleared to throw. Elbow tenderness is the problem. Carrasco has been fragile since 2015 – buyer beware.
Boston’s David Price is on the list, but falling quickly. He is playing catch out to a distance of 60 feet, getting in between 30 and 40 throws. Price is expected to be out until May 1. The Orioles Chris Tillman has an ailing shoulder. Oakland reports Sonny Gray has a back issue that will keep him out until April 25.
Closers
Those looking for cheap saves may have the Tigers’ Francisco Rodriguez or Roberto Osuna on their lists. Again it is a buyer beware situation. F-Rod, 35, enters the year with a hamstring issue. Toronto’s Osuna has a stiff neck, but his upside is huge, so talk up his injury to other owners, then pounce on him if you can.
Middle infielders
The Dodgers’ Corey Seager is falling a little with his oblique strain, but he is still a top 20 projection. The injury has him behind a healthy Trea Turner. Seattle’s Robinson Cano has an illness, but he is still a top 25 pick. The Giants Eduardo Nunez, who also qualifies at third, has a shoulder issue that has him further down the list.
Jason Kipnis has a shoulder issue and is not expect back with the Indians until April 19.
Corner infielders
Some of the aging stars who have traditionally demonstrated power at first base are already hurting. Detroit’s Miguel Cabrera suffered back spasms at the World Baseball Classic. The organization said the slugger came home as precautionary move, but back spasms are never a good sign, particularly on soon-to-be 34-year-olds.
Albert Pujols is still recovering from right plantar fascia surgery in December. He is not expected to play for the Angels until April 19. Toronto has been cautious with third baseman Josh Donaldson. He suffered a calf sprain early in camp, but should be ready for the start of the season. Not that too many owners will care, the Marlins’ Martin Prado is day-to-day with an injured hamstring.
Outfield
Most formats allow five outfielders. So an owner can look for cheap average, power or steals with one player here. Arizona’s A.J. Pollock has turned into a do-it-all fantasy player, but he pulled his a groin March 13. Keep an eye on him.
The Rockies’ Ian Desmond is another one who could score in multiple categories, but he broke a hand in spring training and will not return until mid-April.
Cincinnati’s Billy Hamilton seems to be over a Achilles tendon problem that bothered him earlier in camp so look for 60 steals.
Detroit’s J.D. Martinez will start the season on DL with a foot injury. David Dahl is not expected to start the season with Colorado. His ribs are not healing as quickly as hoped.
