Fantasy Baseball Sleepers 2012: Logan Morrison and Underrated Stars to Steal

Fantasy baseball drafts started in earnest this week, as owners began to get anxious following the start of spring training. Every longtime fantasy player will tell you that it's not the superstars who win championships, but rather the middle-round picks who provide early-round value.

Here are three underrated stars who will fall into that category in 2012.

Logan Morrison

Morrison was treated poorly by the Miami Marlins staff last season, including a midseason demotion to the minor leagues, but he still managed to slug 23 home runs in 123 games. His low batting average was a product of bad luck and should rebound significantly this season.

He's entering his third season with lower expectations because of all the drama that has surrounded him. Ozzie Guillen's arrival from the Chicago White Sox should do wonders for his confidence since he should get a fresh slate with the team's new manager.

Morrison is expected to enter spring training healthy after some offseason work on his knee. He'll undoubtedly be playing with a chip on his shoulder, looking to prove he belongs in the majors. Look for him to provide plenty of pop, perhaps even cracking 30 home runs, in a breakout season.

Draft Projection: 15th Round

Brandon McCarthy

McCarthy falls into the post-hype sleeper category. Big things were expected from him during stints with the White Sox and Rangers, but he never lived up to expectations. While Injuries played a role in his struggles, a lack of control was the major issue.

He finally started to harness all of his pitches last season, which subsequently lowered his walk rate below three for the first time since his first season. That pinpoint control transformed him from a rotation filler to a legitimate fantasy star.

Since McCarthy isn't a huge strikeout pitcher, it's important not to select him too early. That said, he plays in a pitcher-friendly park to increase his already high upside. Take him knowing he will definitely help in the ERA and WHIP categories, and hope his teammates will give him more run support.

Draft Projection: 18th Round

Kelly Johnson

It's actually surprising that Johnson doesn't get more fantasy recognition because he provides help in every category other than batting average at a weak position. Even his average was a reasonable .270 after being traded to the Toronto Blue Jays last season.

He's hit at least 21 home runs in each of the past two years, chipping in double-digit steals as well. A full season in Toronto should do wonders for his power numbers considering the boom other players have enjoyed at Rogers Centre.

After Robinson Cano, there aren't many sure things at second base. Owners will be better off waiting until deep in the draft to take a chance on Johnson than risking a high pick on Chase Utley's health or Brandon Phillips maintaining a career-high BABIP.

Draft Projection: 19th Round