We’ll round up notable changes and trends affecting the major fantasy baseball statistical categories. We’ll focus on cumulative (AVG) and counting statistics (HR, RBI, Runs and SB).

Our intent is to provide you insight that allows you to identify waiver wire pickups or optimize your daily/weekly starting lineups.
 

Catching Opportunities Abound

While MLB’s catching crop has improved in recent years, most fantasy teams struggle to obtain consistent catcher performance alongside their other corner positions.  Most fantasy owners are hurt by most catchers’ scheduling limitations that typically limit all but Yadier Molina and Matt Wieters to 130 games. 

Likely your team would benefit from all-star catcher production as a bench player, no?  Well, this week may be your chance.  All-Star catchers Brian McCann and Carlos Ruiz are returning to their respective clubs this week (McCann, returning after off-season shoulder surgery; Ruiz, returning after a 25-game suspension). McCann is good for 15-20 HRs, .275 AVG and 60 RBIs. Ruiz is coming off a career year in 2012 (16 HRs, .325 AVG), and while he’s unlikely to double that performance, he’s as durable as they come and will likely net 10-12 HRs, a .280 AVG and 50 RBIs the rest of the season. As of Monday, Ruiz was available in 76% of ESPN leagues, while McCann remained available in 79% of ESPN leagues.

Defying History in Baltimore

Nate McLouth continues his circuitous path through baseball and has re-emerged as an viable fantasy OF option. McLouth put together productive 2008 and 2009 seasons with the Braves and Pirates, only to find himself without a professional organization in early 2012.  McLouth hooked on with the Baltimore Orioles in mid 2012 and exhibited improvements across the board (.268 AVG, .342 OBP and .435 SLG with 12 SB in 13 tries). Now in 2013, he’s making a mockery of those who saw small sample size warnings from his ‘12 success, as he already walked 14 times against just eight strikeouts. He’s also nabbed eight stolen bases in nine tries.

McLouth is sporting a high .385 BABIP which indicates there’s likely some regression in store.  But as an extra out fielder, he can provide your team SBs and AVG help.  He’s going fast, but worth looking for, as he’s still available in 35% of ESPN leagues.

Other Worthy Names

Other batters worth consideration in your fantasy league

• Daniel Nava - based on his strong play in Shane Victorino’s absence, (.310 AVG, 4 HR, 16 RBI) he’ll continue getting regular reps in left field in Boston. He’s continued to improve his game three years in a row, so his strong start may not be a mirage.
• Josh Donaldson - he’s off to a hot start in Oakland, backed by a four-hit game on Sunday.  While he won’t hold his current numbers (.319 AVG and 18 RBIs in April), he faces little competition for playing time at third base in Oakland. A decent backup 3B pickup if you own Kevin Youkilis
• Andrelton Simmons - Here’s your buy-low opportunity. After playing over his head in 2012, he’s started 2013 down and being sold off en-masse in leagues.  He won’t provide power, but he will play everyday at short stop, delivering SB and his AVG will improve.  Offer low to his current, dissatisfied owner.