Under the Radar: Players to Watch

Often times fantasy championships are not won in the first or second round of the draft.  Everyone knows that Hanley Ramirez, Albert Pujols, and Joe Mauer are great pickups.  Fantasy championships are won with the players that aren't household names yet.  Last season, Adam Lind and Aaron Hill were not supposed to be lineup changing players and were passed over in most drafts. 

The result was 35 HR and 114 RBI from Lind and 36 HR and 108 RBI from Aaron Hill.  This season there are destined to be more of these players available after the draft.  Here are some candidates to fill your lineup holes this season.

Ryan Raburn (OF), Detroit Tigers
2009 Stats: .291/.358/.532

What made the Johnny Damon signing a mystery in my mind was the fact that it appeared that Raburn had emerged last season as a capable starter for the Tigers.  Currently, Raburn is listed as the third outfielder on the Tigers depth chart at all three positions and will likely see limited at-bats to start the season.  You will want to keep an eye out for a Magglio Ordonez or Damon injury, because if Raburn gets the chance—he will produce.

Last season, Raburn produced 16 home runs and 45 RBI in only 261 at-bats last season.  By comparison, that is one home run for every 16 at-bats, roughly the same as what Adam Lind produced last season.  In addition, Raburn's slugging percentage of .532 rivaled players like Justin Upton (.532), Jason Bay (.537), and a guy named Alex Rodriguez (.532).  Although that percentage may have changed with more at-bats, Raburn has shown that he can produce if given the chance. 

Casey McGehee (3B), Milwaukee Brewers
2009 Stats: .301/.360/.498

The injury to Mat Gamel has paved the way for McGehee to be the everyday starter for the Brewers at third base.  McGehee showed that he has the ability to produce offensively last season when he hit .301 with 16 home runs and knocked in 66 RBI in 355 at-bats.  In a potent lineup with everyday at-bats, McGehee could top 25 home runs and get close to 100 RBI this season. 

Who do you think will breakout this season?