MLB Fantasy Baseball: 2011 AL Only Top 10 First Basemen Rankings
Here’s an early look at the 2011 AL Only First Base rankings.
1. Adrian Gonzalez, Boston Red Sox: A-Gone averaged 34.3 HR and 104.8 RBI in his past four seasons with the San Diego Padres. Now he goes to more of a hitter’s park with a lineup that includes Carl Crawford, Dustin Pedroia, Jacoby Ellsbury, Big Papi and Kevin Youkilis. This could be a monster year.
2. Mark Teixeira, New York Yankees: Tex had a down year in 2010 by hitting .256, yet he still managed to score 113 runs with 33 HR and 108 RBI. He’s a strong bet to rebound in a big way this year.
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3. Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers: He’s the best there is in the American League, but his battle with alcohol scares me. If he can get his life in order, he’ll shoot up to the top.
4. Kevin Youkilis, Boston Red Sox: Youk’s problem isn’t performing, it’s staying healthy. He was limited to 102 games last year. In fact, his career high in games played is 147 so you’re taking a little bit of a risk drafting him, especially considering he’s returning to the hot corner. Still, in that lineup he’s good for .300+, 90+ runs, 25+ HR, and 90+ RBI, and those are low estimates.
5. Justin Morneau, Minnesota Twins: Morneau is on the right track to recover from his season-ending concussion. He is a high risk/reward option.
6. Adam Dunn, Chicago White Sox: Dunn isn’t a sexy pick, but has averaged 40.3 HR and 101.3 RBI in his past seven seasons. It’s his first time playing for an American League team and is a career .250 hitter so there is a little concern.
7. Kendry Morales, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim: Morales’ had one of his biggest highs and the definite low on the same play. The good news is that, in his brief playing time, he proved that 2009 wasn’t a fluke.
8. Billy Butler, Kansas City Royals: Butler can hit .300, but has yet to show the power that he is capable of. If he can make that jump this year, look out.
9. Victor Martinez, Detroit Tigers: You’re most likely drafting him as your catcher, but he does have 1B eligibility. Plus, he can flat out rake. The move to Detroit will cost him some production, but he’s still a solid option.
10. Paul Konerko, Chicago White Sox: Konerko is 35, but he continues to deliver the long ball. His average won’t hold up, but hopefully his back will.
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