Were Two NL Fantasy Sleepers Created on New Year's Eve?

In leagues where holds are a category, Motte can be a useful part of your bullpen the entire season, as he will likely find himself in a setup role out of camp.  But if you decide to draft Chris Perez, I would add Motte as a handcuff.  He has closer stuff.

Update: January 3, 2009, Tony LaRussa says he might consider using Chris Carpenter as the Cardinals closer.  I still think that would not be his first choice, so continue to consider Motte a sleeper for saves in St. Louis.

Mike Fontenot, Chicago Cubs

While the Cubs signed Aaron Miles prior to dealing Mark DeRosa to Cleveland, the player who sees the biggest increase in fantasy value is Mike Fontenot. 

Let’s be honest, Aaron Miles should not be starting for any Major League team.  No matter what people may think due to the timing of his signing, he will not be an everyday player in Chicago.  Also, even if there is a platoon situation, Mike Fontenot bats lefty and rakes right-handed pitching to the tune of a .911 OPS in 2008.

Finally, Fontenot is coming off a .305-9-40 season in limited duty (288 plate appearances).  While his BABIP and HR/fly ball percentage is likely to decrease, a .275-12-60 line isn’t out of the question if given enough playing time. 

Should he find himself leading off in that lineup, he could score 75+ runs.  Considering where he would likely go if drafting today, that’s serious value.

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