Fantasy Baseball 2012: 4 Rookies Guaranteed to Break Out

It's the most wonderful time of the year—baseball season is right around the corner!

That means it's time to prepare for this year's edition of fantasy baseball.

After seeing a large number of rookies come through last season and produce decent numbers for fantasy baseball, everyone is wondering who might have the same potential impact this season.

I'm going to cover four players for you.

Jesus Montero, C/DH, Seattle Mariners

Jesus Montero gained a little experience last season with a September call-up for the New York Yankees. Acquired in a trade for Michael Pineda, Montero will provide some extra pop in the middle of the Mariners' lineup.

Look for him to hit either in front of Dustin Ackley in the three-hole, or more likely, hit cleanup behind Ackley.

It would be feasible to expect around a .285/20/80 season from Montero, which would instantly place him among the top five catchers available for fantasy baseball.

Matt Moore, SP, Tampa Bay Rays

This is quite possibly the most guaranteed person to break out this season. Matt Moore entered the majors last season with the Rays and dazzled in his limited appearances. His stuff is electric, and he has great command on his pitches.

According to ESPN.com's Keith Law (insider subscription needed), Matt Moore is the prospect likely to have the greatest impact in the majors this upcoming season.

It would not be out of the question to see Moore with double-digit wins and around a 3.00 ERA for the season. He will be a solid No. 3 starter for your fantasy team.

Yu Darvish, SP, Texas Rangers

Many may feel this pick is cheating, but Yu Darvish is a rookie in the MLB. Coming over from a Japan career that has seen him post a record of 76-28 with a 1.72 ERA and more than 1,000 strikeouts, Darvish is expected to pitch well for the Rangers.

However, I would not take him as the ace for your squad. Draft him expecting the numbers of a No. 3 or No. 4 starter, but know he has the potential to reach a No. 2 starter or even ace numbers.

Mike Trout, OF, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Regarded by many as the best prospect in the game, Mike Trout has the ability to succeed at the major league level. Even better, he can prove to be very useful in fantasy baseball, especially in rotisserie formats. He hits for high average and will get a ton of steals for your squad.

Look for around a .300 average with upwards of 35 steals from Trout this season.