Fantasy Baseball: Valuable Catchers Flying Under the Radar

Considering the fact that most MLB catchers tend to be more concerned with their work behind the plate than their work with the bat, finding a productive everyday backstop can be quite the task for fantasy baseball owners. 

Luckily, if you play your cards right, you may be able to land a solid free agent fill in without too much trouble.

Here's a look at four of the MLB's most undervalued fantasy catchers.

Jonathan Lucroy, Milwaukee Brewers

Current Numbers: .326 AVG, 2 HR, 16 RBI, .375 OBP

Owned in 30 percent of leagues (Yahoo! Sports)

Milwaukee's Jonathan Lucroy isn't going to be anybody's fantasy savior, but with a solid batting average and some surprising RBI potential, he could certainly make for a nice fall-back option at catcher.

Perhaps the most enticing thing about the 25-year-old Brewer backstop is the fact that he has seen a number of ABs in Milwaukee's No. 2 hole—meaning he could potentially become a major run producer with Ryan Braun backing him up.

While he isn't likely to bat .320-plus all season long, there's still a lot to like about the guy. If you're really lacking at catcher he's not a bad option.

Carlos Ruiz, Philadelphia Phillies

Current Numbers: .330 AVG, 6 HR, 22 RBI, .369 OBP

Owned in 67 percent of leagues (Yahoo! Sports)

The tides have turned in the National League East and the aging Philadelphia Phillies (16-19) are in last place. Don't point the finger at catcher Carlos Ruiz, though.

The 33-year-old veteran seems to be enjoying a bit of a resurgence, having already matched his 2011 home run total (six) and put together an all around impressive stat line.

While his numbers could potentially dip once perennial stars Ryan Howard and Chase Utley return to the Phillies' order, Ruiz should still be a rather viable fantasy option all season long. Pick him up while you still can.

A.J. Pierzynski, Chicago White Sox

Current Numbers: .257 AVG, 5 HR, 21 RBI, .305 OBP

Owned in 58 percent of leagues (Yahoo! Sports)

For whatever reason, baseball fans tend to hate Chicago catcher A.J. Pierzynski. Luckily, fantasy doesn't take personal feelings into account. 

No matter your take on the fiery veteran backstop, there's no denying his production. With nine multi-base hits (five home runs) and 21 RBI, Pierzynski is putting up some of the American League's best numbers among catchers. 

While he has hit a bit of a slump as of late, he should continue to drive in runs, considering Chicago's high-powered offense. Give him a shot if he's still around.

Jesus Montero, Seattle Mariners

Current Numbers: .262 AVG, 5 HR, 1 R7BI, .287 OBP

Owned in 79 percent of leagues (Yahoo! Sports)

Catcher/DH Jesus Montero came to the Mariners with big expectations and, thus far, he has done an awfully nice job of meeting them.

While his mediocre average and OBP leave some to be desired, the 22-year-old should continue to progress steadily as Seattle's young ball club improves as a whole. 

Don't expect anything spectacular, but he is one of the most dependable hitters on a team that seems to be heading in the right direction. He'll become even more dangerous as he gets more ABs under his belt.

More Fantasy Advice...

For more fantasy baseball advice check out my earlier Under the Radar installments:

First Basemen Flying Under the Radar

Second Baseman Flying Under the Radar

Shortstops Flying Under the Radar

Third Baseman Flying Under the Radar