NL FAAB Factor: Waiver Pickups of the Week

1. Identify likely free agents and discuss their strengths and weaknesses.
2. Estimate how much of your $100 starting free-agent budget you should bid on them.

This year, we're incorporating grids into the FAAB articles, so users can easily see at a glance how certain players stack up against others and how much they should command in a variety of formats.

The grid, which is sortable by column (click on the header), include a very basic "player grade" column. This serves as a reflection of a player's skills and role on an A-E scale. Cody Bellinger would have been an "A" grade player last year – that mark will be reserved for similar high-impact prospects stepping into an everyday role.

As always, if there is a player that was not discussed in the article that you would like to know about, feel free to ask about the player in the comments.

Ty Blach/Derek Holland/Chris Stratton, Giants - Madison Bumgarner fractured the fifth metacarpal on his pitching hand when he was hit by a line drive Friday. Surgery will sideline him until June and with Jeff Samardzija (pectoral) expected to open the season on the disabled list and Johnny Cueto off schedule; the rotation is in flux. Ty Blach, who made 24 starts last season, now appears to be the favorite to start for the Giants on Opening Day, though his 4.0 K/9, lowest amongst qualified MLB starters, makes him a risky option. Holland's career has crated the past few seasons, impacted by injuries, but his flyball tendencies and declining stuff also contributed to his decline. He was signed to be a bullpen arm but could get a look in the rotation with Samardzija sidelined. Stratton made 13 appearances – 10 starts - for the Giants last season, posting a 3.68 ERA, 1.48 whip and 51:28 K:BB ratio in 58.2 innings. When SF is healthy, he will slot in as the fourth starter, but moves up to begin the year due to all the injuries in the rotation. Blach - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $4; Holland - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2; Stratton - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

A.J. Cole/Jeremy Hellickson, Nationals - Cole was named the Nat's fifth starter, giving him some value. His career numbers – 4.52 ERA, 1.44 WHIP, 92:42 K:BB in 99.2 innings – suggest Cole could only be a placeholder until late-spring signing Hellickson is stretched out and ready to take on that role. Cole posted a 3.81 ERA last year but a 5.20 FIP along below-average strikeout and walk rates, making him a risky bet. Hellickson was brilliant in 2016 but reverted back to form and then some last year with Philly and then Baltimore, when he flamed out. He gets another lease on life in Washington, but his lack of velocity also make him a risky bet, though he may beat out Cole in a few weeks. Erick Fedde looms in the minors if he gets off to a strong start. Cole - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2; Hellickson - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $3

Caleb Smith/Jose Urena, Marlins - With Wei-Yin Chen expected to open the season on the disabled list, Odrisamer Despaigne, Justin Nicolino and Urena are the probable Nos. 2-4 starters in Miami. It's hard to recommend any of the three, and the best option might be Smith, who could open the year as the team's fifth starter. Hold your nose or flip a coin before having to grab one and maybe go with Urena, who had success last year despite advanced metrics that showed that production to be an aberration. Smith - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $3; Urena - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Nick Pivetta/Vince Velasquez, Phillies - Behind Jake Arrieta and Aaron Nola, the Phillies' rotation is full of questions. Velasquez and Pivetta are slated to be the third and fourth starter. Velasquez struggled in his 15 starts last year, posting a 5.13 ERA, before needing surgery to address a circulation problem in his hand. His walk ratio climbed and K ratio fell; if both were due to his pitching through the injury, it's possible Velasquez is a rebound candidate, but an inability to stay healthy has been a constant in his career. Pivetta earned a spot with Jerad Eickhoff sidelined with a lat strain. His curveball showed improvement last season and his fastball location has made strides this spring. Pivetta earned his spot last season with a good start to the year in Triple-A but he posted a 6.02 ERA and 1.51 WHIP, despite underlying numbers that showed he deserved better. Pivetta - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $2; 12-team NL: $5; Velasquez - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

Tyler Mahle/Sal Romano, Reds - Mahle entered camp as a long-shot to earn a rotation spot but injuries to Brandon Finnegan and Anthony DeSclafani coupled with Mahle's solid performance opened the door. His five solid innings Tuesday leave him with a 2.75 ERA with a 15:3 KBB over 19.2 spring innings, but a final decision likely won't be made until the end of camp. Romano looks likely to break camp in the team's rotation thanks to his strong spring performance. He was unable to translate his solid 2016 Double-A numbers to 2017, both at Triple-A Louisville and in the majors, due to a so-so K rate and increased walk rate as well as lack of a good third pitch after his fastball and slider. If he shows growth in either his changeup or curveball, Romano could stick in the rotation even after Cincy gets healthy. Mahle - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $5; Romano - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4.

Luiz Gohara//Brandon McCarthy/Sean Newcomb, Braves - Gohara sprained his ankle in March but might return earlier than originally expected in late-April on early-May. He rose through three levels to the majors last season, using his mid-90s fastball, possibly plus slider and developing change to make five starts in the majors. The injury might cause him to fall in drafts but don't sleep on him. McCarthy is penciled in as the team's third starter. When healthy, McCarthy has been effective, especially last season when he posted a 3.98 ERA and 1.25 ERA but was limited to 92.2 innings. Newcomb has the most upside of the group, but historically had had control issues, adversely impacting his production. If he can do a better job of harnessing his arsenal, Newcomb has the stuff to succeed in the majors. Gohara - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $5; 12-team NL: $9 (stash candidate); McCarthy - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4; Newcomb - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

Brent Suter/Brandon Woodruff, Brewers - Suter began 2017 in the bullpen, but moved to the rotation in July and posted a 3.24 ERA in 13 starts the rest of the way despite a fastball that averaged 85.8 mph. With Junior Guerra sent down, Suter will open the season as Milwaukee's fourth starter. Woodruff was the Brewers' minor-league pitcher of the year in 2016, but he took a step back last year. He likely would benefit from more minor-league seasoning, but his mid-90s fastball, slider and changeup play at this level and he opens the year in long relief but will slide into the fifth rotation slot. Suter - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $5; Woodruff - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4.

Matt Harvey/Steven Matz, Mets - Harvey is no longer the Dark Knight, as injuries have wreaked havoc on what once looked like a brilliant career. This spring, though, the velocity looks to be somewhat back on his fastball and he has mixed in his slider with improved command and control. Harvey will be a free agent after the season and a rebound campaign would put him in line for a decent payday. Matz has struggled staying on the mound since he was drafted, maxing out at 22 starts in 2016. Last season was a nightmare for the lefty, as he pitched through elbow discomfort, eventually undergoing nerve transposition, a similar operation also underwent by Jacob deGrom in the past. Matz has come on as the spring has worn on and looks locked into a rotation spot, which was questionable when training camp started. Harvey - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11; Matz - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Dinelson Lamet/Bryan Mitchell/Tyson Ross, Padres - Lamet and Mitchell have all but secured the third and second spots in the Padres' rotation behind Clayton Richard. Of the two, Lamet has the greater upside; thanks to his mid-90s fastball are hard-biting slider, which resulted in a 10.9 K/9 rate as a rookie. The development of his changeup and curveball will determine just how dominant he is as a starter and/or if he moves to the bullpen in the future. Mitchell, acquired from the Yankees, posted an impressive 3.25 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 66 strikeouts in 63.2 innings (primarily as a starter) at Triple-A last season. He mainly pitched out of the bullpen in the majors. Ross seems to be in the lead for one of the remaining spots. He struggled in his bid to return from surgery to treat thoracic outlet syndrome in 2017, logging just 49 innings over 12 appearances 10 starts – with the Rangers after making just one start in 2016. Ross looked to be on the verge of stardom after the 2015 season, ascending from 2013-2015, until the injury hit. He has had a strong spring, and barring a collapse, will be the fourth starter. Lamet - 12-team Mixed: $5; 15-team Mixed: $11; 12-team NL: $18; Mitchell - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11; Ross - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

Miles Mikolas, Cardinals - Mikolas signed a two-year deal with the Cardinals this offseason after three highly successful seasons in Japan. He flopped in his first pass through the majors from 2012-14 but improved his curveball and gained confidence in his slider and cutter overseas, leading to his success with the Yomiuri Giants. Mikolas got off to a rough start this spring, but has been much better his last few starts and should head into the season on a roll, making him a sneaky add in many leagues. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Joe Musgrove, Pirates - The plan is still for Musgrove to fill Gerrit Cole's rotation spot, he has dealt with some shoulder stiffness this spring an could open the season on the disabled list. As we noted in our preseason outlook, for Musgrove, it was a tale of two roles last season. As a starter, Musgrove posted a 6.12 ERA with a 1.51 WHIP. After being demoted to the bullpen, he registered a sparkling 1.44 ERA with a stingy 0.86 WHIP. Musgrove - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

Antonio Senzatela, Rockies - Senzatela looks to be the odd man out in the Rockies' rotation. Despite that decision, Senzatela could force the issue if he continues to pitch as he has this spring, though he might go to the minors to see consistent innings as he viewed by the organization as a starter for the future. He faded after a strong first six starts last season, but the back end of the Colorado rotation doesn't profile as any more dominant than Senzatela, so a change could occur. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2.

Jason Vargas, Mets - Vargas was reunited with his former Royals' pitching coach, signing a one-year deal with the Mets. After going 12-3 with a 2.62 ERA the first half of last season, earning an All-Star bid, Vargas faded, posting a 6.38 ERA and 1.60 WHIP his final 15 starts. Vargas is recovering after surgery to remove the hamate bone on his glove hand (right) and will need to show he can field his position and wield a bat before returning. He is not expected to be sidelined long, but could be skipped over his first time in the rotation. Vargas should benefit from a move back to the NL, offsetting his average K-rate and rise in contact. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $5; 12-team NL: $9.

RELIEF PITCHING
 
Kyle Barraclough/Drew Steckenrider/Brad Ziegler, Marlins - Ziegler doesn't seem to possess anything that exciting in terms of his arsenal but he gets the job done. He is penciled in as the Miami closer, a role he filled down the stretch last season. Ziegler relies on soft contact and infield outs, which increases his BABIP and makes him susceptible to occasional blow-ups. Power arms in Barraclough and Steckenrider, likely the next in line, loom if/when/once Ziegler fades. Barraclough was once the heir apparent but Steckenrider, who also struggles with walks like Barraclough, has a better track record, swinging-strike rate and first-pitch frequency, giving him the edge, though either one could close. Barraclough - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4; Steckenrider - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7; Ziegler - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11.

Archie Bradley/Brad Boxberger/Yoshihisa Hirano, Diamondbacks - We present to you, spin the wheel and pick the Arizona closer. Bradley has the best stuff of the three but could be used for two-inning stints, as he was last season. Boxberger has closing experience in Tampa, notching 41 saves on 2015, but missed 155 days due to groin surgery and oblique issue in 2016 and was out three months with a lat issue last season. Hirano closed in Japan but is making his MLB debut in short relief, though the same was said about Kaz Sasaki years ago. I expect Bradley, who was brilliant last season out of the bullpen, after transitioning from starting to reliever, to be named the closer, though manager Torey Lovullo hasn't tipped his hand and any of the three could get the nod. Adjust the bidding based on your view until official word is received. Bradley - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11; Boxberger - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7; Hirano - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4

Sean Doolittle, Nationals - Doolitte is locked in as the Washington closer. The Nats acquired him along with Ryan Madson at the non-waiver trade deadline in July, and Doolittle went on to finish 21-for-22 in save opportunities. Injuries have been an issue in the past, including last season, but he pitched 51.1 innings last season, posting a 62:10 K:BB ratio, aided by his 94-96 mph fastball and two other solid pitches. 12-team Mixed: $11; 15-team Mixed: $18; 12-team NL: $26

Tommy Hunter, Phillies - Hunter signed a two-year, $18 million deal with the Phillies and will set up Hector Neris. The 31-year-old righty logged a 2.61 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and 64 strikeouts along with 17 holds in 58.2 innings for the Rays last season. If Neris falters, Hunter or Pat Neshek could close for Philly. 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $3; 12-team NL: $7

Luke Gregerson/Dominic Leone, Cardinals - Gregerson, who pitched in Houston the last three years and won a championship with the Astros last season, signed a two-year deal with the Cardinals in the offseason. He served as the Houston closer in 2015 and half of 2016, before losing the job and shifting to a set up role. Gregerson was slated to close for St. Louis but will begin the season on the disabled list due to a strained oblique. Leone could fill in for Gregerson but manager Mike matheny is not naming a closer to start the season. After bouncing from Seattle to Arizona, posting middling numbers at best, Leone turned into a weapon last year in Toronto. As we noted in our latest update, Leone gained a tick of velocity on his fastball and upped his cutter usage nearly seven percentage points to 36.0 percent, at the expense of his slider, resulting in a dominant season. Greg Holland is still a possibility for the Cardinals, but for now, it's Gregerson followed by anyone of Leone, Tyler Lyons and maybe Bud Norris, but all this is in flux. Gregerson - 12-team Mixed: $3; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11; Leone - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Josh Hader, Brewers - Hader transitioned from starting to relieving last season, earning success as a set-up man and long reliever. He looks to fill a role similar to Dellin Betances of the Yankees that of a power-armed bullpen arm who can go for multiple innings and also close. Hader will be the bridge to Corey Knebel, racking up holds and strikeouts, as he might top triple-digits in that latter category while pitching 80-plus innings. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

A.J. Minter, Braves - Arodys Vizcaino will open the season as the Atlanta closer but Minter looms in the wings. Minter's four-seam fastball, slider and cutter play at the major-league level as a possible future closer. He was able to control his walks following his promotion, which will be something to watch in his first full season in the bigs. If Vizcaino falters or is traded, Minter is next in line, but be aware he has had some injury issues, making Jose Ramirez likely the next-next in line. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

CATCHER
 
Jorge Alfaro, Phillies - Alfaro, who is slated to be the Phillies' primary catcher, came to camp lighter in the hopes that he will be more agile behind the plate and improved defensively. Beyond the need to be better defensively, Alfaro's K:BB ratio raises red flags despite his plus raw power. He was aided by a .420 BABIP after his promotion last year, but his power makes him an intriguing catching option, though likely with a weak AVG and OBA. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7

Alex Avila, Diamondbacks - Avila had a breakthrough campaign last year with Detroit, posting a .274/.394.475 slash line with 11 HR and 32 RBI prior to his trade to the Cubs, parlaying that into a two-year, $8.5 million deal with Arizona. The humidor means that Avila won't get the bump that was anticipated when he signed with the D-Backs, but he will start at catcher. Jeff Mathis and Chris Herrmann will back up Avila, who tailed off after his trade and also has a significant injury that includes multiple concussions. Buyer beware, but as a second, mixed league catcher or starting option in NL-only leagues, solid upside potential exists in Avila. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $5; 12-team NL: $9.

Austin Barnes, Dodgers - Barnes saw action in 55 games (49 starts) behind the plate and 21 more as part of a second base rotation in 2017. His .280/.408/.486 line was nothing short of spectacular, earning him more time over Yasmani Grandal as the season wore on. Barnes is likely the future starter in LA until Keibert Ruiz is ready, but he is behind Grandal as 2018 opens with Grandal starting against righties and Barnes versus southpaws. With Justin Turner out 4-6 weeks due to a broken left wrist, Logan Forsythe will play second, possibly affording more time at second to Barnes. 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11 (increase substantially if he sees more action)

Tucker Barnhart/Devin Mesoraco, Reds - Barnhart replaced an injured Devin Mesoraco as the Reds' catcher last season, posting a career-high .270 average while earning NL Gold Glove honors and parlaying that season into a four-year, $16 million contract. He won't provide much power, but should contribute in the counting stats and his ability to draw walks bumps up his value. Mesoraco will back up Barnhart, and if he can show he is healthy, the role may become more of a job-share, but for now, it's Barnhart as the starter. Barnhart - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7; Mesoraco - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $3.

Francisco Cervelli, Pirates - Cervelli averaged 402 plate appearances the last three seasons, with his main value coming in a .365 OBA. His power and counting stats are nothing to write home about, if he can stay healthy, unlike the last two seasons, his production rise due to his ability to get on-base. In addition, Cervelli is an excellent pitch framer, which adds to his real-life value and aids in his ability to see playing time. 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4.

Travis d'Arnaud/Kevin Plawecki, Mets - TdA is still the starter but will cede additional at-bats and starts against right-handed pitchers to Plawecki, who started to come on late last season. D'Arnaud's pitch-framing skills make him valuable even when not hitting, but injuries and his wrapping of the bat, slowing down his path the plate, have resulted in sub-optimal offensive campaigns. He is having a strong spring and if d'Arnaud can carry that into the season, as he appears to eliminate much of the bat wrap, he could surprise. D'Arnaud - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7; Plawecki - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $3.

Tyler Flowers/Kurt Suzuki, Braves - Flowers and Suzuki split time behind the plate last year for Atlanta, forming one of the stronger combinations in the league. Suzuki starts against LHP while Flowers plays against righties. That limits both of their upsides, but plays to their strengths. Each provide some pop, but look for Suzuki to regress slightly there as his numbers last year were an aberration, aided by the home park to Atlanta and spike in MLB as a whole. Flowers - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11; Suzuki - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Manny Pina, Brewers - Pina will open the season as the Brewers' primary catcher with Stephen Vogt (shoulder) set to hit the disabled list. With Vogt out, Jett Bandy will back up Pina, but since both Pina and Bandy are right-handed hitters, look for Pina to play almost every day partially due to his excellent defense behind the dish. In addition, Pina has shown the ability to handle the bat, which is why he will see action even when Vogt returns. 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1, 12-team NL: $5.

FIRST BASE
 
Ian Desmond/Ryan McMahon, Rockies - When camp started, McMahon looked penciled in to open the season as the Rockies' starter at first base. The return of Carlos Gonzalez, though, pushed Desmond from left field to first base, where he is now expected to start, possibly relegating McMahon to the minors. McMahon raked the last two years in the minors and had a solid spring, but Colorado likely wants him to see consistent playing time rather than sporadic at-bats and action off the bench. Desmond's first year in Colorado was marred by injuries, as his numbers fell across the board, especially power-wise. He modified his swing this offseason, but that has yet to pay dividends, though he has shown some signs of breakout lately. If he fails to show his pre-2017 form and McMahon continues to hit in the minors, a switch could occur sooner rather than later. Desmond - 12-team Mixed: $3; 15-team Mixed: $9; 12-team NL: $14; McMahon - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7 (stash bid).

Wilmer Flores/Adrian Gonzalez, Mets - Following the 2017 season, despite his struggles Dominic Smith looked likely to open 2018 as the Mets' starting first baseman. GM Sandy Alderson signed A-Gone, who saw his production crater and was injured in 2017, after he was dealt to Atlanta and then released, to a major-league minimum deal, opening the door for him to start at the position. Smith showed up late to the first game and then strained his quad, sidelining him this spring. Gonzalez has struggled at the plate, prompting new manager Mickey Callaway to deploy Flores as the right-handed hitting side of a platoon and indicate that Flores could also see time vs. RHP. Flores rakes against lefties but also posted a .262/.459/.765 slash line with 11 of his 18 HR in 233 AB vs. righties and also qualifies at third base. When Michael Conforto returns from his shoulder surgery, the Mets could deploy Jay Bruce at first base, especially against righties, which would further adversely impact Gonzalez. Flores - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11; Gonzalez - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Jose Martinez, Cardinals - Martinez could open the season as the Cardinals' starting first baseman if Matt Carpenter's shoulder is healthy enough to allow him to play third base. If that happens, bump up the fantasy value of Martinez, who showed a potent bat, borne out by his posted stats and advanced metrics. If Carpenter plays third, Jedd Gyorko loses some value. Martinez has dual eligibility, qualifying at first and in the outfield, but with Marcell Ozuna, Tommy Pham and Dexter Fowler now deployed across the outfield, his best shot at playing time will come at first base. 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7 (increase if Carpenter plays third base)

SECOND BASE
 
Carlos Asuaje/Cory Spangenberg, Padres - Asuaje looks to be in the lead over Spangenberg in the battle to become the Padres' starting second baseman. Neither player has impressive career stats, but Asuaje is viewed as the better defender, which could give him the edge. If he earns the role, Asuaje will provide a modicum of counting stats. Spangenburg still will have value, likely more than Asuaje, due to his better bat and will resume his role of super-utility player, seeing time at second, third and the outfield. Double-digit homers and steals might still be possible for Spangenburg. Asuaje - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2; Spangenburg - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $2; 12-team NL: $7.

Howie Kendrick, Nationals - Kendrick appears to be the leading candidate to serve as the Nationals' Opening Day second baseman after general manager Mike Rizzo said Monday that Daniel Murphy (knee) likely will open the season on the 10-day disabled list. Once Murphy is cleared to return, Kendrick likely will transition back to a utility role, seeing time at second base and in the outfield. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $5.

Adam Frazier, Pirates - The acquisition of Corey Dickerson made Frazier a bench player. Look for him to see time at second base and in left field. Despite the lack of a starting job, Frazier still might see 400 at-bats, providing a decent batting average and good on-base average. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4.

Scott Kingery, Phillies - Kingery should be up in the majors by April 13 due to service time management, but he has been one of the best players this spring training. He is a second baseman by trade but manager Gabe Kapler has utilized him all over the diamond, including at shortstop, the hot corner and even in center field. Kingery blasted 26 home runs last year at Triple-A, 10 of which came in the bandbox that is Reading's home park, but he also brings impact speed to the table. He will benefit from playing at Citizens Bank Park and should be a double-double candidate at a minimum after he is promoted and a future top-10 second baseman. 12-team Mixed: $5; 15-team Mixed: $11, 12-team NL: $16.

Hernan Perez/Eric Sogard/Jonathan Villar, Brewers - All three are battling to open the year as the Brewers' starting second baseman. All three are having solid springs, but Villar looks likely to earn the spot, rebounding from his poor 2017 campaign after a brilliant 2016 season. Villar hit 19 home runs and stole 62 bases in 2016 but fell to 11 and 23 last year, losing his job. Sogard surprisingly took hold of the job last May and posted a .393 OBP. He provides little else but could lead off if he earns the job. Perez filled a super utility role for a second straight season in 2017 and should earn a similar role this year. He provides some power and speed and can fill in at second when needed. Perez - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $2; 12-team NL: $7; Sogard - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4; Villar - 12-team Mixed: $5; 15-team Mixed: $11; 12-team NL: $18

SHORTSTOP

Nick Ahmed/Ketel Marte, Diamondbacks - Ahmed appears likely to open the season as the D-Backs starting shortstop with Marte slotting in at second, shifting Chris Owings to a utility role. Known as a glove-first player, Ahmed did raise his OPS 80 points to .717 last season, but that was in 178 plate appearances with minimal counting stats. Marte came to Arizona in the 2016 offseason and was promoted in June. He posted a .260/.345/.395 line with 18 extra-base hits across 255 plate appearances and should produce a line with a handful of home runs and possibly double-digit steals. Despite the utility player status, Owings still may be the infielder to own, possessing the strong hit tool of the trio. Ahmed - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No, 15-team NL: $2; Marte - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 15-team NL: $7; Owings - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 15-team NL: $11

J.P. Crawford, Phillies - The Phillies traded Freddy Galvis this offseason to turn over shortstop to Crawford. He has shown the ability to take a walk, but his batting average leaves something to be desired and he lacks true power and speed. In addition, this season, he will bat eighth or ninth, somewhat adversely impacting his counting stats. However, he still might crack double-digits in home runs and maybe score 70 runs, which has value. 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7, 15-team NL: $11.

Jose Peraza, Reds - Zack Cozart is now an Angel and Eugenio Suarez looks ensconced at third base, leaving shortstop for Peraza. He failed to have the breakthrough campaign predicted for him last season, struggling in the second half, which gave Scooter Gennett additional playing time and starting role at second base. Nick Senzel looms as a possible middle infield option for the Reds, putting pressure on Peraza to produce and quickly. If Peraza puts it all together, a 30 SB season could be the result. 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7, 12-team NL: $11.

Jose Reyes/Amed Rosario, Mets - Reyes will serve as a veteran leader for Rosario, as well as a backup at second, third and short for the Mets. He should get about 300-350 at-bats, providing some speed on the basepaths and a little pop at the plate. Rosario looked overwhelmed at times – at the plate and in the field – after his call up last season but showed in the minors that he can be a weapon on both sides of the ball. Power will be the last to come but he should develop that as he matures and physically fills out. This year may be all about growth for the 22-year-old with the real breakthrough coming in 2019 or in the second half of the year. Reyes - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $2; 12-team NL: $6; Rosario - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11

Miguel Rojas, Marlins - Rojas looks likely to open the season as Miami's starting shortstop with J.T. Riddle nursing a shoulder injury. He offers a solid glove at multiple spots across the infield and posted a strong .361 on-base percentage across 306 plate appearances in 2017, but a dearth of power makes him best optimized as a utility man. Once Riddle is back, Rojas will move back into that utility role, seeing time at multiple infield spots. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2.

THIRD BASE

Brian Anderson, Marlins - Anderson will open the season as Miami's everyday third baseman after Martin Prado (knee) suffered a setback that will result in the veteran heading to the disabled list. Prado was potentially going to see time in left field, affording Anderson at-bats. But now, with Prado out, Anderson has no impediment to playing time, especially since Derek Dietrich will play left field with Prado sidelined. Anderson has no discernible upper-tier tools but should post counting stats, giving him value mainly in NL-only or deep mixed leagues. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1, 12-team NL: $5.

Johan Camargo/Rio Ruiz, Braves - Ruiz or Charlie Culberson could open the year as the Braves' starting third baseman until Camargo (back/oblique) is healthy. All are placeholders until Austin Riley is ready, so don't expect much, even if they are in the lineup with Camargo the best by far of the lot as Ruiz struggled mightily in his broader exposure to the majors last season. Camargo - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $3; Ruiz - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $2

David Freese/Colin Moran, Pirates - Moran, the main piece acquired by Pittsburgh in the Gerrit Cole trade, looks like to open 2018 as the Pirates' starting third baseman. After struggling to tap into his power, Moran adjusted the launch angle on his swing last season and hit 18 homers in 338 at-bats last season in the minors. Moran was blocked in Houston, but has a clearer path to playing time in the Steel City with only Freese to beat out. If you believe the adjustments are for real, look for Moran to hold the job all season, as he showed in the past an ability to make contact and get on-base. Freese will see some time at the hot corner and at first base, but will see a stark drop in his at-bats. Freese - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $3; Moran - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Chase Headley, Padres - Headley returns to San Diego with Bryan Mitchell as part of a salary dump by the Yankees to stay under the luxury tax. He will slot in as the starting third baseman, but as a free agent after the season, he could be on the move by the trade deadline. Headley has averaged 11-14 home runs and 49-62 runs batted in the last five seasons, so look for production within that range once again with a slightly increased walk rate; an area of growth last season. 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $5.

Enrique Hernandez/Chase Utley, Dodgers - Justin Turner is out 4-6 weeks with a broke wrist with L.A. turning to Hernandez and Utley to man second base with Logan Forysthe shifting to the hot corner. Hernandez will play against southpaws with Utley, who was brought back in mid-February, to play against right-handers. But if Utley struggles as he did at times last season, the Dodgers could opt to play Austin Barnes more at second base, and shifting Chris Taylor from center is always an option. Hernandez - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $3; Utley - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4

OUTFIELDER

Ronald Acuna, Braves - If you need RotoWire or me to inform you about Acuna, might we suggest a different hobby? Acuna, the 1 or 1a prospect in baseball with Shohei Ohtani, slashed .432/.519/.727 with four home runs and as many stolen bases in 16 spring games. His demotion solely was a way for Atlanta to keep control of him for one more season and he should be up by the second full week of the season, similar to how Chicago treated Kris Bryant a few seasons ago. Expectations are through the roof for the five-tool player with the only question how long he takes to get acclimated to the majors once he is promoted. 12-team Mixed: $7; 15-team NL: $14; 12-team NL: $20 (adjust based upon your league)

Albert Almora, Cubs - Ian Happ beat out Almora for the starting center field job and leadoff hitter role, but that doesn't mean Almora won't see any at-bats. He could still get occasional time in the leadoff spot, particularly when the Cubs face left-handed starters. The 23-year-old slashed .342/.411/.486 against lefties last year compared to .271/.291/.420 against righties and is an also excellent defensively, which could afford him additional starts with Happ slotted in at second base. 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $2; 12-team NL - $7.

Lewis Brinson/Derek Dietrich/Cameron Maybin, Marlins - New owner Derek Jeter's offseason purge changed what was possibly the strongest outfield trio in the majors to possibly the weakest. Brinson brings power and speed to the table, though expect growing pains. Miami likely will run Brinson out there daily in center field and he could end up hitting in the middle of the order. Dietrich will start in left field with Martin Prado's knee still an issue. He had a career-high 13 homers and 53 RBIs last year in 406 at-bats and should approach and possibly exceed all those numbers this season while also qualifying at the hot corner. Maybin returns to Miami and injuries have short-circuited his career. He is best known for his speed, and he could find a way to stay healthy, double-digit home runs and 30-plus steals could be in the offering. Brinson - 12-team Mixed: $3; 15-team Mixed: $9; 12-team NL: $14; Dietrich - 12-team Mixed: $1; 12-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7; Maybin - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11 (speed might warrant a higher bid).

Michael Conforto, Mets - Conforto had taken a major step forward before tearing the posterior capsule in his left shoulder in August. Prior to the injury, Conforto slashed .279/.384/.555 with 27 homers and 68 RBIs in 373 at-bats last season. Following the operation, the hope was that Conforto might return by midseason, though there was concern that he could re-injure the shoulder on a swing. His rehab has gone better than expected and now he may beat the optimistic May 1 date that had been tossed out this winter. Conforto served as the DH on Friday and played the outfield Saturday; all signs are positive that an earlier than predicted return is in the cards, so bump him up on your draft sheets. 12-team Mixed: $14; 15-team Mixed: $24; 12-team NL: $33

David Dahl/Carlos Gonzalez/Geraldo Parra, Rockies - Dahl hit .315/.379/.500 with seven home runs and five stolen bases in 237 plate appearances after his promotion in July 2016 and looked prime to take the next step forward last year. A stress reaction to his rib in spring training sidelined the outfielder nearly all season, making it a wasted year. The return CarGo to Colorado along with presence of Parra means Dahl is starting the year in the minors. Gonzalez will start in right field, Parra in left moving Ian Desmond back to first base full time, relegating Dahl and Ryan McMahon to Triple-A. If Dahl, who is having a solid spring, gets off to a hot start and shows he is fully healthy, he should be back up before too long. Gonzalez saw his production fall off by almost half last year but signed a one-year, $8 million deal to return to the Rockies in early March. His struggles were against LHP, so it's possible he ends up in platoon, sitting against southpaws. Parra will open the season as the starter, posting a solid AVG and OBA, but could see his time and at-bats cut back as the season continues if Dahl and/or McMahon force their way back up to the parent club. Dahl - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $2; 12-team NL: $5 (stash candidate); Gonzalez - 12-team Mixed: $3; 15-team Mixed: $9; 12-team NL: $14; Parra - 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team Mixed: $7; 12-team NL: $11

Corey Dickerson/Jose Osuna/Sean Rodriguez, Pirates - Dickerson hit .232/.273/.397 the final three months of 2017 and was designated for assignment by the Rays. Despite his poor second half, Dickerson still hit .282 with 28 home runs for the season. Pittsburgh acquired him on the cheap and immediately inserted him as their starting left fielder. He made some strides last season against lefties, but still only hit three if his 27 home runs against southpaws. If he fails to carry forward those gains, look for Rodriguez to see time against lefties, as he fills a super-utility role, seeing time all over the place now that he is fully healthy. Osuna will see time at first and in the outfield, if he breaks camp with the team. Dickerson - 12-team Mixed: $3; 15-team Mixed: $9; 12-team NL: $14; Osuna - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $2; Rodriguez - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: $0; 12-team NL: $3.

Steven Duggar/Austin Jackson, Giants - Jackson missed a good portion of 2016 due to injury and was a fourth outfielder in Cleveland last year, batting hit .318/.387/.482 with 35 RBI and 46 runs scored in 85 games. He signed a two-year, $8 million deal with the Giants this January and could be leadoff hitter against lefties, against whom he slashed .352/.440/.574 in 122 at-bats. Jackson will battle Duggar for playing time, and Duggar has little to hurt his chances this spring to be on the strong side of the platoon. He doesn't project to hit for much power, but he could develop into a high-OBP, 20-steal leadoff hitter while manning center field by the Bay. Duggar - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $5; 12-team NL: $9; Jackson - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4

Jarrod Dyson/Yasmany Tomas, Diamondbacks - Dyson missed most of the second half of 2017 with a sports hernia that ultimately required surgery. His production is largely limited to steals due to the lack of power, but he is hurt by a poor walk rate. Dyson signed in Arizona as the fourth outfielder, pushing Tomas, who was limited to 47 games last year due to oblique and hip injuries, to fifth outfielder status because he profiles better as a designated hitter due to his defensive issues. Steven Souza suffered a left pectoral injury this week and will open the year on the disabled list., as he is likely out until mid-May. As a result, Dyson and Tomas will see time in left field until Souza is healthy, affording their owners the shot at early steals or power production. Dyson - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $5; 12-team NL: $9; Tomas - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $4 (up if think he goes to AL).

Juan Lagares/Brandon Nimmo, Mets - Michael Conforto is working his way back from shoulder surgery, opening center field for the Mets. Nimmo has parlayed a solid spring into the stronger side of the platoon with Lagares, whose work this offseason on altering the launch angle of his swing has yet to pay dividends. A lack of power has been an issue for Nimmo in his career, but he has shown a bit more pop as he matures and coupled with his solid eye at the plate and bit of speed makes him an intriguing early season fantasy candidate. Lagares still will see time versus LHP and late in games as a defensive replacement, but likely will need a change of scenery to see consistent action. When Conforto returns in May, Nimmo will move to the bench, unless Jay Bruce is given time at first base; an option that exists if Adrian Gonzalez struggles. Lagares - 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team Mixed: No; 12-team NL: $2; Nimmo - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7.

Jose Pirela/Hunter Renfroe, Padres - Pirela posted a .288/.347/.490 line in 344 plate appearances in the majors last season. He entered camp as part of a left field competition with Franchy Cordero, Renfroe and Travis Jankowski but his strong early play coupled with injuries to Cordero and Jankowski has earned him a vote of confidence from manager Andy Green and a leg up on seeing the lion's share of the at-bat. Renfroe still will factor in the mix and is next in line, though it's possible he opens the season at Triple-A to see consistent at-bats. Pirela - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $5; 12-team NL: $11; Renfroe - 12-team Mixed: $0; 15-team Mixed: $1; 12-team NL: $5

Victor Robles/Michael Taylor, Nationals - Taylor will open the season as the Nationals' center fielder with Adam Eaton returning from his torn ACL to man left field. He parlayed his additional playing time last season into 19 HR and 17 SB, albeit with 137 K in 399 at-bats. Taylor ranked sixth in the majors with a 10.1 UZR and if he can find a way to make more consistent contact, he likely would be close to a lock to remain in the lineup. But with his struggles in that regard and top prospect Victor Robles looming, Taylor will have a limited margin for error. Robles could push the situation with a strong start to the minor-league season, but there is no room now with Eaton, Taylor and Bryce Harper the starting outfield. If injury strikes, he could be up sooner, but a June or July promotion looks somewhat possible and a full-time role in 2019 when/if Harper leaves after the season is probable. Robles - 12-team Mixed: $1; 15-team Mixed: $4; 12-team NL: $7 (increase substantially in keeper leagues); Taylor - 12-team Mixed: $5; 15-team Mixed: $11; 12-team NL: $18.

Preston Tucker, Braves - Tucker looks set to open the year as the Braves' starting left fielder. But his reign will last only until uber-prospect Ronald Acuna is called up, which could be April 13. The former Astro has shown some power, hitting 24 home runs last year at Triple-A, and could post a decent OBA before shifting to a backup role. Tucker could move to right field, replacing Nick Markakis, but a same likelihood exists that he is sent to the minors when Acuna is promoted. Lane Adams, who could start against lefties, and Ezequiel Carrera, a non-roster invite, could also factor in the mix. 12-team Mixed: No; 15-team NL: $1; 12-team NL: $4

Nick Williams, Phillies - Carlos Santana pushed Rhys Hoskins to the outfield, creating a logjam in Philly. Hoskins, Odubel Herrera, Aaron Altherr and Williams will share the three outfield spots, meaning that one of the four will sit. Hoskins should start almost every day, leaving a rotation in center and right field. Williams came up last year and did not look out of place, hitting 12 HR and driving in 55 in 313 at-bats. A straight platoon may be on tap, as Williams and Herrera are both lefties and Altherr is a righty, but manager Gabe Kapler might be creative with his lineup combinations to effectively give all three players a significant share of the playing time this season. Look for each to play 120-130 games, so adjust your rankings accordingly, though if one gets hot, Kapler could ride that player. 12-team Mixed: $3; 15-team NL: $9; 12-team NL: $14

Jesse Winker, Reds - Cincinnati will find at-bats for Winker, rotating him among Adam Duvall, Billy Hamilton and Scott Schebler, which reduces the value of those three outfielders a bit but gives Winker a chance to stick in the majors. It seems like Winker has been around forever, yet he is only 24 and he finally got his feet wet in the bigs last season. The one knock on Winker had been a lack of power, but he hit seven home runs in his last 105 at-bats in the majors last season matching his total from the previous two years in the minors. Winker's has an advanced hit tool and if the power he showed is no fluke, he should be close to a full-time starter sometime this season. 12-team Mixed: $2; 15-team NL: $7; 12-team NL: $11