Yu Darvish and Other MLB Rookies Who Will Bring Great Fantasy Production in 2012

Can you trust a rookie in the MLB to be productive?

Will they struggle in their first season or will they prove they belong with the game's best players?

That's the big question.

These three rookies, however, will not only succeed in their first year, they will thrive. Expect great numbers from these future stars.

Yu Darvish, SP, Texas Rangers

The unknown factor of Yu Darvish is a tad concerning, but, ultimately, I think it will be in his favor. Other than what teams have seen from his days in Japan, there is no footage of what he throws in games that actually matter.

With a plethora of pitches at his disposal, Darvish will provide great production as a rookie in the MLB. Similar to Daisuke Matsuzaka's first two years in the league, batters are going to take time to adjust to his pitches and overall movement.

Matsuzaka went 33-15 in his first two seasons with Boston, including 18-3 in his second season.

If Darvish can adjust to the American game, we are looking at a rookie that has the ability to dominate hitters.

Expect a great season from Darvish.

Projection: 16-9, 3.30 ERA, 175 innings pitched

Yoenis Cespedes, OF, Oakland Athletics

Oakland Athletics outfielder Yoenis Cespedes has the makings of being a special player in his first MLB campaign.

Cespedes proved, in his two games in Japan, that he can drive the ball with his power when he makes contact. He has already knocked in two runs, hit a double and blasted a home run.

If you go by what you hear, Cespedes should easily be a steal in fantasy drafts this season. While not too many players in the game are "five tool players," Cespedes definitely brings you different aspects that will benefit fantasy owners.

Despite already being pulled from game action, Cespedes should be high on your watch list.

Projection: .284, 20 HR, 82 RBI

Yonder Alonso, 1B, San Diego Padres

You're not going to receive much of a look at the big league level when you are behind Cincinnati Reds' slugger Joey Votto.

Yonder Alonso will finally get his opportunity to shine on the big stage with the San Diego Padres after being dealt by the Reds.

In 2011, Alonso had 29 hits in 88 at-bats with Cincinnati, belting five home runs and driving in 15 runs. Petco Park will bring his home run production down, but he will be a doubles machine in 2012.

Expect great things from Alonso in 2012. He's eager to prove he's MLB worthy.

Projection: .275, 28 HR, 94 RBI