Fantasy Baseball Rankings 2012: Top 5 Rookies to Grab in Keeper Leagues

If you are in a fantasy keeper league, grabbing a top rookie is the best way to dominate your league for years to come.

These players will not only be great in the future, but they are ready to play in the majors right away.

Therefore, you do not need to waste a roster spot waiting for a prospect like Bryce Harper or Mike Trout to be called up. 

Matt Moore, SP, Tampa Bay Rays

There is an awful lot of hype for a pitcher that has only made one regular season start in his career, but it is completely warranted. 

In his playoff start against the Texas Rangers, Moore held a great lineup to two hits and zero runs in seven innings of work.

He showed the type of stuff that could make him a top-of-the-rotation starter within the next two years.

Yu Darvish, SP, Texas Rangers

Not only has Darvish been dominant in Japan, but he is only 25 years old. It is scary to think that he is still entering his prime. 

With a great team around him, the rookie pitcher is certain to get plenty of wins this year and in the next few years.

Yonder Alonso, 1B, San Diego Padres

The bad news for Yonder Alonso is that he was traded from the Reds to the Padres, where he will play in one of the most spacious parks in the majors.

The good news for Alonso is that he was traded to the Padres, where he can finally get into the starting lineup after being blocked by Joey Votto.

He has a great swing and could become a 30-HR/100-RBI player on a consistent basis.

Jesus Montero, C/DH, Seattle Mariners

There is a question as to where Montero will end up in the field, but there is little doubt about his bat.

Although it was a small sample size of 61 at-bats, the former Yankee finished last season with four home runs and a .328 batting average. 

If he can stick at catcher, his offensive ability will be incredibly valuable for a fantasy team.

Yoenis Cespedes, OF, Oakland Athletics

Even if Cespedes does not become the instant star that many are predicting, his career in Cuba showed that he was very good at making adjustments.

At 26 years old, he already is a very good hitter but has plenty of time to really hit his stride.