Fantasy Baseball Mock Draft 2012: First-Round Studs Destined for Greatness

Not all elite players in the MLB are perfect for your fantasy baseball leagues, but it's no secret which guys will be selected at the top of your draft. 

Each year it varies, but these are names the casual fan will recognize. Depending on which league you're in, you may get someone that reaches on a guy—but that will work in your favor. 

In a 12-team fantasy baseball league, the best of the best are going to go quickly, but not everyone is a surefire lock to have enormous success throughout the year. 

That being said, here's my 2012 fantasy baseball draft with info on each pick and a more in-depth look at those players destined for greatness this year. 

2012 Fantasy Baseball Mock Draft 

1. Matt Kemp, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers

As the Dodgers biggest star, Kemp is going to be extra motivated this season. He felt he should have won the NL MVP last season, but since he didn't, it's only going to push him to be even better in 2012. 

No matter how many teams are in your league, Kemp is the top option for you if you land the No. 1 overall pick. 

He's a dynamic force at the plate as well as on the base path. Kemp is going to thrive in 2012, and if you choose to pass on him at No. 1 you'll be sorely mistaken. 

2. Albert Pujols, 1B, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim 

Now that he's in the American League, look for Pujols to be the designated hitter from time-to-time for the Angels. 

While some say he had a down year last season, he did have health issues, which hopefully will not be a problem this season. It shouldn't be, especially if he bats DH here and there. 

The Angels paid him big money to produce, and he's going to do just that. After all, he is "The Machine," so look for Pujols to dominate with his new team. 

3. Miguel Cabrera, 3B/1B, Detroit Tigers

The Tigers won't have to rely on Cabrera as heavily as they did last year now that they Prince Fielder in the lineup. 

Still, Cabrera will be a high pick because of his success last year and he won't be a letdown either. 

4. Jose Bautista, 3B/OF, Toronto Blue Jays

Bautista is a beast, and being able to plug him in at third or the outfield makes him even more enticing. 

Look for him to hit several home runs this season, as well as a ton of RBI. The Blue Jays are nothing without him, and he'll make sure they're putting runs on the board. 

5. Ryan Braun, OF, Milwaukee Brewers

The reigning NL MVP will be asked to do a lot this season with the loss of Fielder. Since this offseason was quite the fiasco for him, expect a lot of eyes to be watching Braun's every move.

He'll be a top five pick in nearly every draft because of his strong season a year ago, but don't be surprised if he flops with so much pressure on him in 2012. 

6. Troy Tulowitzki, SS, Colorado Rockies

While he has had injury problems in the past, Tulowitzki is still a solid pick in the first round of your fantasy baseball draft. 

He's one of the top short stops in the league. A powerful hitter in a crucial position is just what your fantasy team needs. 

7. Robinson Cano, 2B, New York Yankees

Cano is the top second baseman in MLB, and he's going to have another great year. 

Look for him to excel right from the start and keep it going strong, all season long. 

8. Jacoby Ellsbury, OF, Boston Red Sox

A terror on the basepath, Ellsbury is a stealing machine, which makes him so enticing. His offensive production at the plate is improving, which also makes him a great pick.

Look for Ellsbury to have over 40 stolen bases this season and keep his batting average above .300 for the bulk of the season. 

9. Evan Longoria, 3B, Tampa Bay Rays

Longoria is going to have an explosive season. He jumps into the top 10 in my draft because he's a powerful hitter that's ready for a big year. 

When the rest of the team gets on base and Longoria is up to bat, expect great things to occur. Longoria is going to lead the Rays to a very good 2012. 

10. Joey Votto, 1B, Cincinnati Reds

Votto continues to rise in the MLB, showcasing his power hitting year after year. Expect somewhere around 30 plus home runs from Votto and close to 115 RBI in 2012. 

11. Justin Upton, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks

Upton keeps getting better as the years go on, and the fact that he's still developing as a hitter is rather scary. He'll be counted on for a big year, and he'll definitely produce for Arizona. 

12. Hanley Ramirez, 3B, Miami Marlins

The addition of Jose Reyes on the Marlins is only going to make Ramirez that much better. Miami will have runners in scoring position much more this season, and Ramirez will make sure they come home safely. 

The Marlins are an intriguing team this year, and Ramirez will be a stud all season long.