Fantasy Baseball Rankings 2012: Joey Votto and The Top 5 First Basemen

The first base position is absolutely stacked heading into the 2012 season, and just because it’s a recognizable name doesn’t mean he is going to have a big year.

Ryan Howard is returning from ACL surgery, Mark Teixeira doesn’t hit for a high enough average and Paul Konerko (age 36) is just plain old.

Here are the top five best available first basemen that have the potential to build your fantasy team around with their all-around production:

1. Albert Pujols: Los Angeles Angels

While his new nine-year deal will eventually look bad, year one is going to be aces. With the hunger to please his new fanbase/teammates and second-to-none work ethic, I fully expect Pujols to smash the .299, 37 HRs, 105 runs and 99 RBI he put up in 2011.

Nobody works harder and is more prepared for each and every plate appearance.

2. Joey Votto: Cincinnati Reds

The 2010 MVP didn’t have quite the same season in 2011 (.309, 29 HR, 103 RBI) as he adjusted to getting pitched around, but his plate disciplined improved, registering 19 more walks and only four more strikeouts despite having almost 52 more ABs than the previous season.

He appeared in all but one of the Reds’ games last year, displaying the sort of durability fantasy owners love. With Scott Rolen healthy again and Jay Bruce improving, he once again has protection around him.

Votto is as safe a bet as there is at the position in 2012.

3. Adrian Gonzalez: Boston Red Sox

Gonzo was a strong MVP candidate for the majority of last season, and for good reason (.338 average, 27 HRs, 117 RBI, 74 walks, .410 OBP). He is in the middle of one of the most potent lineups in baseball and played in all but three games.

He is the whole package, but you’d like to see his home-run production increase a bit. He only hit 11 long balls after June 26.

4. Mike Napoli: Texas Rangers

I’d argue the Rangers have the top lineup in baseball, and Napoli is a huge contributor. He set career highs in virtually every category and lowered his strikeout rate by 20 percent. While I don’t see him matching the .320 average of 2011, I do see him increasing the 30 home runs, 75 RBI and 72 runs scored.

He is one guy trending upwards, unlike this next pick…

5. Prince Fielder: Detroit Tigers

It’s the curse of financial security for the Tigers' new first baseman. Fielder is unbelievably talented and still worthy of a top-five pick after his incredible 2011 season (.299 average, 38 HR, 120 RBI, 95 runs), but there is little doubt he won’t be as locked in now that he landed a mega deal

If you are looking to predominantly add a home run hitter, this is your guy.

Just missed the cut: Carlos Santana (Indians), Freddie Freeman (Braves)