Fantasy Fallout: Brian Roberts Signs Extension with Baltimore Orioles

Brian Roberts agreed to terms today with the Baltimore Orioles on a four-year extension worth $40 million dollars.

I have to hand it to Roberts—not many players in today’s day and age would stick around with losing organizations.  Apparently, Brian Roberts has other ideas.  

In fact, he stated today that he wants to remain with one organization for his entire career, if at all possible.  During Friday’s news conference, Roberts brought up the name of Cal Ripken Jr.

Brian, I hate to break it to you, but you will never come close to the greatness of Cal Ripken.  However, it is truly admirable that you aspire to that kind of greatness.

The hard part for me to grasp is that Brian Roberts is clearly among the top lead-off batters in today’s game.  Why wouldn’t he want to keep his options open, and sign on with a winning organization at the end of his current contract?  His actions go against the grain, and I am sure many fans are in the same boat with me.

From a fantasy standpoint, Brian Roberts offers a lot for owners who decide to fill their second base position with his name.  At the age of 31, he is clearly no spring chicken.  However, his numbers are encouraging.

Generally, Roberts has been light on the power, but immensely helpful in the runs, stolen bases, and batting average categories.  The Baltimore Orioles do not have a terribly bad lineup, so he should remain fairly productive batting at the top of the lineup.

Roberts should be able to post slightly above 100 runs and 35 stolen bases, making him a valuable commodity alone.  His batting average will probably be closer to .290 than .300, but it certainly also qualifies as an asset to any fantasy baseball team.  

Look for Roberts to short out on the power category (anywhere from 6-12 home runs), as well as the RBI numbers (50-60).

He is a rock-solid choice this year for your second base position, and is a true leader on the Baltimore Orioles.  Pick him up as the third or fourth second baseman off the board, and you will be good to go.