Fantasy Baseball Draft Strategy: Veterans That Still Have Some Gas Left in Tank

Fantasy owners love the potential of young players, but most times it is the same old veterans that are at the top of the league in offensive production.

There is no doubt that these players are on the decline, but too often these well-known players become sleepers towards the end of the draft.

Besides Mariano Rivera, who has maintained the same great statistics into his 40's, these veterans are the most likely to have solid years despite advanced age.

Paul Konerko, Chicago White Sox

Although he is rarely considered one of the best hitters in the game, it is about time that Paul Konerko gets some respect for his consistency over his career.

People assume he is past his prime, but the first baseman has hit over .300 with more than 30 home runs and 100 RBI in each of the past two seasons.

Aramis Ramirez, Milwaukee Brewers

A change of scenery might be exactly what Aramis Ramirez needs to get back to being a great hitter.

Despite little team success on the Cubs, the third basemen has hit 25 or more home runs in seven of the past eight seasons.

On the Brewers, Ramirez can be energized in the middle of a deep lineup that is sure to win a lot of games this season.

Lance Berkman, St. Louis Cardinals

After a few injury-plagued years, Lance Berkman was left searching for bench spots around the league.

However, last season proved that he has a lot more good baseball left in him.

If he can stay healthy, Berkman can continue to be the player that finished seventh in the MVP voting a year ago.

Ichiro Suzuki, Seattle Mariners

Ichiro has been taken on average in the 10th round of fantasy drafts. Whoever takes him there will be getting a steal.

Last year was the first in his 11-year career that he did not bat .300, but he is still among the best hitters in the league.

The lineup around him will be better as young players mature, and he still can steal bases as well as almost anyone. 

Look for Ichiro to have a bounce-back year and top 200 hits once again.