By Michael Waxenburg, Staff Writer
So-called fantasy baseball experts will tell you that to win your league, finding that scintillating sleeper who produces big numbers from virtually out of nowhere can put your team over the top. Here are some players you want to take a chance on.
Oufielder Garret Jones of the Pittsburgh Pirates is worth a pickup. At 28 years old and after spending ten years in the minors, Jones got his chance last season. Playing only half of a season, Jones hit for a .293 batting average with 21 HR, 44 RBI, 45 runs scored and 10 stolen bases. The Pirates also have a new first basemen in Jeff Clement. If he fails to play well Jones could play some first base, which also improves his value because of dual eligibility.
Carlos Gonzalez, part of the young, talented Colorado Rocky outfield is a tempting sleeper as well. In only 89 games Gonzales hit 13 HR, 29 RBI and had 16 SB. Playing full time and playing at Coors Field where the altitude carries balls further off bats, Gonzalez is definitely worth keeping an eye on.
A starting pitcher worth a look is Brett Anderson of the Oakland Athletics. Before Anderson had his chance in the big leagues, MLB.com rated him a top 50 minor league prospect. Anderson had a decent spring training with nothing that jumps out of you, but his last start of spring training, Friday April 2, against the Giants went very well as he pitched 5 scoreless innings. The opposing pitcher in the game, Matt Cain, raved about Anderson’s stuff.
“Anderson looked really, really good,” Cain said. “The guys are coming back to the dugout and saying, he’s throwing the ball very lively. And his breaking ball was very good.”
Anderson’s 5 scoreless innings on Friday may say more about his mental toughness than anything else because he previous start he was hit hard for 6 runs. For a third or fourth starting pitcher Brett Anderson could be your guy.
The Brewer’s shortstop, Alcides Escobar, is someone not to overlook. He is young so his value may have more worth if you are in a keeper league. In just 125 major league at-bats, Escobar hit for a .304 average. He has lightning speed and could potentially end up with 30 stolen bases. Escobar’s .300 and 30 stolen base potential should make you feel better if you do not land Hanley Ramirez, the top shortstop at a thin position.

Pirates outfielder Garret Jones hit 21 homeruns in a shortened rookie season. (Photo courtesy MLB.)