2013 Fantasy Baseball Preview: National League East Breakout Candidates
There is something to be said about anchoring your fantasy baseball team with players that have already reached their potential.
That said, there is always a new crop, often made up of younger players, that take their game to the next level. Here’s a look at some National League East fantasy baseball breakout candidates.
Rob Brantly, C, Miami Marlins
Brantly hit .290 in 100 at-bats last year. He should provide a solid average and decent counting stats. Brantly is best suited for NL-only or two-catcher leagues.
Bryce Harper, OF, Washington Nationals
Harper posted a .270-98-22-59-18 line last year. Those are solid numbers, but just the tip of the iceberg for one of the game’s young stars. I expect a .300-110-30-80-25 line this year.
Bobby Parnell, RP, New York Mets
Parnell should be a solid source of saves as long as he can hold off Frank Francisco. Parnell has been solid this spring and has the stuff (he can hit 100 miles per hour with his fastball) to be a quality closer. Parnell’s WHIP improved from 1.47 in 2011 to 1.24 last year.
Andrelton Simmons, SS, Atlanta Braves
Simmons has just 166 at-bats under his belt, but he will start the season batting leadoff, which should lead to solid counting numbers in an improved Braves offense. Don’t expect him to dominate in any particular category, but he should be solid.
Julio Teheran, SP, Atlanta Braves
Teheran has been nearly untouchable this spring with his filthy stuff. He’s one of the top pitching prospects and should be a solid contributor in wins, strikeouts, ERA and WHIP. The Braves have a ton of young arms, which is reminiscent of the early '90s.
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