Carlos Marmol was a top-10 closer prior to fantasy draft day, and the reasons were obvious.

The 26-year-old had 114 strikeouts in 87 1/3 innings last season as the Cubs' setup man to Kerry Wood, who left to sign with the Tribe as a free agent this offseason. Marmol, an eighth-inning specialist, certainly had the credentials to be a ninth-inning stud.

Or so we thought.

1. Kevin Gregg's value is unexpectedly high, and Marmol's is the opposite.

Cubs manager Lou Piniella has been known to kick dirt on an umpire or two, and Sunday he threw some unexpected debris into many owners' lineups when he announced veteran reliever Kevin Gregg, not Marmol, would be his closer.

Gregg has the credentials -- a combined 61 saves the last two seasons with the Marlins -- and the strikeout numbers (145 in 152 2/3 innings in 2007 and 2008) to be a fantasy starter. He also has an uncomfortably high WHIP (1.23 and 1.28, respectively) and opponents' batting average (.310 and .314) the last two seasons.

He didn't allow a run all spring in winning the job over Marmol, who is prone to bouts of wildness (an average of 4.4 walks per nine innings in 2007 and 2008).

Marmol also gives up far fewer hits -- his WHIP last season was 0.93 -- and averaged a closer-like 11.7 strikeouts per nine innings last season.

If you drafted Marmol before the news, I wouldn't drop him unless your league doesn't allow for more than a few bench spots.

Gregg is a worthy starter in deeper leagues, but don't be surprised if he loses the job at some point (he blew nine saves in 38 chances last year) to Marmol in 2009.

2. The Cardinals' decision made much more sense.

With Chris Perez and Ryan Franklin as the other top candidates, St. Louis went with impressive 26-year-old Jason Motte as its closer.

Like Marmol, Motte is a strikeout machine. He fanned 16 in 11 innings in his rookie season of 2008, when he had an ERA of 0.82, and racked up 217 strikeouts in 164 2/3 innings in the minor leagues.

The converted catcher probably won't receive all the closing opportunities, but he should get enough to save 30 games.

If you're in a mixed league that has already drafted, acquire Motte before someone else does. If you've already beaten the other owners to the waiver wire, start him.

Before we get to the finale of our four-part breakdown of the top 100, let’s get to a few quick injury notes.

The best second basemen on the board — Boston’s Dustin Pedroia and Philadelphia’s Chase Utley — seem to be recovered from abdominal and hip ailments, respectively.

Pedroia is playing again after straining his abdomen in the World Baseball Classic, and the reigning American League MVP seems to be a safe second-round pick.

Utley, who had offseason hip surgery, homered for the first time this spring on Tuesday. He says there’s “no question” he’ll be ready for the start of the season.

If that’s the case, he’s probably much too low on this list. There’s probably less risk in taking the likes of Jimmy Rollins and Manny Ramirez early in Round 2, but Utley — who has averaged 29 homers, 104 RBI and 14 steals the last four seasons — certainly has the most (to borrow a term from NFL and NBA draft circles) upside.

Another notable spring injury was the high-priced left elbow of Mets stud Johan Santana. He threw five effective innings Sunday and is also on track for opening day, making him a solid No. 3 at his position (behind Tim Lincecum and Brandon Webb) and an early second-round pick on this board.

Finally, the No. 1 debate: Albert Pujols or Hanley Ramirez?

I certainly can’t fault owners who select the Marlins’ shortstop, especially in category leagues in which Ramirez’s total of 86 steals the last two seasons is too enticing to pass up.

Ramirez batted .332 in 2007 and .301 last season, with averages of 31 homers, 74 RBI and 125 runs in that span.

Pujols, meanwhile, has eight-year major-league averages of 40 homers, 122 RBI, 118 runs, 43 doubles, a .334 average and .425 on-base percentage.

Deciding between the two is a nice problem to have. With Pujols, you know exactly what you are getting.

Ramirez owners, on the other hand, have the advantage of starting him at shortstop, where it’s much more difficult to find a stud. If you’re OK with losing the difference between Pujols and Ramirez in batting average, home runs and RBI, then take one of the game’s best young players.

I would make the guaranteed pick and worry about steals later.

25. Carlos Beltran, OF, Mets: He’s not going give your batting average much of a boost (Beltran is a career .281 hitter), but he’ll hit for power and steal bases (a combined 101 homers, 340 RBI and 66 steals the last three seasons).

24. Matt Holliday, OF, Athletics: He leaves Coors Field, where he accounted for 15 of his 25 homers and 59 of his 88 RBI last season, for Oakland, which diminishes his value a bit.

23. Justin Morneau, 1B, Twins: He won’t steal any bases, but he does everything else.

22. Carlos Lee, OF, Astros: He hits for average and he’s consistent in the power department — at least 28 homers and 98 RBI in each of the last seven seasons.

21. Josh Hamilton, OF, Rangers: The one-time phenom has finally realized his potential, but he’ll have a hard time driving in 130 runs again this season.

20. Chase Utley, 2B, Phillies: Utley’s injury was much more serious than Pedroia’s — enough that I would give Pedroia a slight edge.

19. Dustin Pedroia, 2B, Red Sox: He was one of fantasy’s biggest surprises of 2008.

18. CC Sabathia, SP, Yankees: The big lefty’s 251 strikeouts were 42 better than his previous career high, which must have impressed the Steinbrenners to the tune of $161 million.

17. Roy Halladay, SP, Blue Jays: He’s always a threat to win 20 games with a sub-3.00 ERA, and last year he struck out more than 200 batters for the first time since 2003.

16. Ryan Howard, 1B, Phillies: The good: He’s averaged 51 home runs and 110 RBI the last three seasons. The bad: He’s batted .268 and .251 the last two seasons. The scary: He’s struck out a combined 579 times the past three years.

15. Johan Santana, SP, Mets: His elbow injury makes him a second-round risk who could still be the best pitcher on the board not named Lincecum.

14. Manny Ramirez, OF, Dodgers: Don’t be worried about his early hamstring injury — Manny being Manny.

13. Jimmy Rollins, SS, Phillies: He was fantastic in his NL MVP season of 2007 (.296, 30 homers, 94 RBI, 41 steals), but provided little pop and stole only 11 bases a year ago.

12. Alfonso Soriano, OF, Cubs: He’s missed 27 and 53 games, respectively, the last two seasons, and his stolen bases have slipped to 19 each year.

11. Miguel Cabrera, 1B, Tigers: If this slugger is third-base eligible in your league, this ranking is too low for a player who’s had at least 26 homers and 112 RBI in each of the last five seasons.

10. Brandon Webb, SP, Diamondbacks: You might prefer to add some pop here, but I’ll take a durable pitcher who is a combined 56-25 with 555 strikeouts the last three seasons.

9. Mark Teixeira, 1B, Yankees: He’s had at least 30 homers and 105 RBI in each of the last five seasons, and the latter stat should only improve batting in the middle of the Yankees’ lineup.

8. Lance Berkman, 1B, Astros: Miguel Cabrera and Mark Teixeira are the bigger names, but I prefer the player who stole 18 bases, batted .312 and scored 114 runs last season. Berkman’s power numbers aren’t bad, either (averages of 36 homers and 115 RBI the last three seasons).

7. Tim Lincecum, SP, Giants: The best pitcher on the board is a diminutive Giant who was 18-5 with a 2.65 ERA and 265 strikeouts in 227 innings (an average of 10.5 per nine innings) in his second major-league season.

6. Grady Sizemore, OF, INDIANS: A 40-40 threat, but one who strikes out too much (an average of 143 K’s the last four seasons) and hits for too low of an average (.268 in 2008) to justify a top-five pick.

5. Ryan Braun, OF, Brewers: All he’s done in two big-league seasons is bat .301, crack 71 home runs, steal 29 bases and drive in 203 runs — in fewer than 1,100 at-bats.

4. Jose Reyes, SS, Mets: He won’t help you much in the power department, but he’ll steal 55 to 75 bases, score at least 110 runs and bat in the .290 range.

3. David Wright, 3B, Mets: Even if A-Rod was healthy, Wright — with averages of 32 homers, 116 RBI and 25 steals the last two seasons — could have been considered the best third baseman on the board.

2. Hanley Ramirez, SS, Marlins: He’s a legitimate 40-40 candidate who does everything well except drive in a lot of runs.

1. Albert Pujols, 1B, Cardinals: He’s batted no worse than .314 with at least 32 homers and 103 RBI in every season since 2001. Hanley Ramirez’s speed is enticing, but Pujols crushes him in two categories (RBI and batting average), will hit more homers and has averaged 118 runs scored per season in his eight-year career.

Before we get to Part III of our four-part breakdown of the top 100 on our (cue Mel Kiper) big board, we are required by fantasy law to give an Alex Rodriguez update.

Reports out of New York this week said the Yankees are sticking to their May 15 timeline for A-Rod's return from hip surgery, but there is some belief Mr. July will be back sooner.

If Rodriguez returns in the middle of May, you would have him back for Week 7 of the fantasy season, which begins Monday, May 17. If you're worried about season totals, May 15 is slated to be the Yankees' 37th game of the season -- which would mean Rodriguez would miss 22 percent of the season, assuming the hip doesn't sideline him again later this summer.

Rodriguez's average draft position in ESPN leagues is 28.3, which would place him in the upper third of the third round in 12-team leagues.

I am sticking with my stance from last week: Set a number at which you refuse to go lower to draft Rodriguez, and restrict yourself to that rule. I not-so-cleverly dubbed it the Theory of 37 because I wouldn't take the risk on A-Rod until Round 4 -- pick 37, at the earliest, in 12-team leagues.

Our 12-team News-Herald league drew for draft order this week and, naturally, I received the 12th pick, leaving my fourth-round pick at ... 37.

We'll see if I get the chance to live up to my word this Sunday.

On to Nos. 26-50, with the top 25 to be posted Friday.

50. Brian Roberts, 2B, Orioles: He won’t provide much pop, but he will steal 40 or more bases, score a lot of runs and hit for average.

49. James Shields, SP, Rays: His strikeouts dropped from 184 to 160, but he won two more games and should only get better in his fourth season.

48. John Lackey, SP, Angels: If he pitches a full season, he should come close to his 2007 numbers (19-9 with a 3.01 ERA and 179 strikeouts).

47. Aramis Ramirez, 3B, Cubs: If you don’t want to take a chance on A-Rod, he’s the next-best option at the hot corner.

46. Francisco Rodriguez, RP, Mets: He set the single-season saves record, then cashed in with the Mets. Just don’t expect another 62 saves.

45. Brad Lidge, RP, Phillies: He won’t go 41-for-41 in saves again, but he certainly doesn’t seem to be the same guy who struggled in Houston.

44. Jason Bay, OF, Red Sox: He drove in 37 runs in 49 games after being traded to the Red Sox, and it’s reasonable to believe he could reach 120 RBI batting in that lineup.

43. Russell Martin, C, Dodgers: A rare catcher who steals bases (18 last year), but Brian McCann is much better in the power categories.

42. Brandon Phillips, 2B, Reds: He was a bit disappointing last year, but don’t discount his prolific 2007 (30 homers, 94 RBI, 32 steals, .288).

41. Brian McCann, C, Braves: The best catcher on the board has averaged 22 homers and 91 RBI the last three seasons.

40. Alex Rodriguez, 3B, Yankees: Maybe the fact he’s getting a later start will mean he’ll hit in September.

39. Cliff Lee, SP, INDIANS: Don’t count on 22-3 and another Cy Young, but 15 to 18 wins with a decent strikeout total isn’t a stretch.

38: Matt Kemp, OF, Dodgers: Fantasy owners can’t wait to see what’s next after he batted .342 in 2007, then had 18 homers, 76 RBI and 35 steals in 2008, his first full season.

37. Joe Nathan, RP, Twins: Pencil him in for at least 36 saves (he has five straight seasons of reaching that number), a low ERA and more strikeouts than innings pitched.

36. Dan Haren, SP, Diamondbacks: He’s a combined 31-17 with 398 strikeouts the last two seasons.

35. Nick Markakis, OF, Orioles: His power and steal numbers dropped in 2008, but he still batted .306 with 20 homers.

34. David Ortiz, DH, Red Sox: If he’s healthy, which wasn’t the case last year, he’ll hit 35-plus home runs and drive in 120 runs or more.

33. Prince Fielder, 1B, Brewers: His 2007 (50 homers, 119 RBI, .288) was much more impressive than his 2008 (34, 102, .276). In points leagues, beware of strikeouts.

32. Evan Longoria, 3B, Rays: He still has to improve in runs scored and batting average to be a fantasy force, but it’s hard to argue with 27 homers and 85 RBI as a rookie.

31. Jonathan Papelbon, RP, Red Sox: It’s difficult to select a closer this early, but he can save games much better than he can dance.

30. Kevin Youkilis, 1B, Red Sox: He can play first and third, and is a double (43) and RBI (115) machine.

29. Roy Oswalt, SP, Astros: He has a 3.13 career ERA and rebounded from a terrible start in 2008 to win 17 games.

28. Jake Peavy, SP, Padres: He would be better than the seventh-ranked pitcher if we were certain to get the 2007 Peavy (19-6, 2.54 ERA, 240 strikeouts) instead of the 2008 version (10-11, 2.85, 166).

27. Cole Hamels, SP, Phillies: Before you draft the 25-year-old who won 14 games and struck out 196 in his third season, make sure his sore elbow is of no concern. As of now, that seems to be the case.

26. Ian Kinsler, 2B, Rangers: If he can improve upon his power numbers in his fourth season, this speedy Ranger could surpass Dustin Pedroia and Chase Utley at the position.

Moving on to Part II of the much-anticipated four-part series (please save your applause until the end) ...

75. Dan Uggla, 2B, Marlins: He’ll bat for power, but not for average and strike out way too often (a combined 338 the last two seasons).

74. Scott Kazmir, SP, Rays: He struck out 73 fewer batters last season than he did the year before (239).

73. Bobby Abreu, OF, Angels: A change in leagues won’t stop him from hitting at least 20 homers, driving in 100 runs and stealing 20 bases.

72. Troy Tulowitzki, SS, Rockies: An injury-riddled 2008 could result in a draft-day bargain on a player who batted .291 with 24 homers and 99 RBI the year before.

71. Joakim Soria, RP, Royals: The Royals might be the only reason he doesn’t record more than 40 saves for the second consecutive season.

70. Daisuke Matsuzaka, SP, Red Sox: He won 18 of 21 decisions overall and was 9-0 with a 2.37 ERA on the road last season.

69. Chad Billingsley, SP, Dodgers: At 24, he should have no problem following a 16-win, 201-strikeout season.

68. Ichiro Suzuki, OF, Mariners: If his average stays at .310 (down 41 points from 2007), his stolen-base totals aren’t quite as enticing.

67. Carlos Pena, 1B, Rays: He’ll topple 30 homers and 100 RBI, but be wary of his plummeting batting average (.247 last season and .251 for his career).

66. Geovany Soto, C, Cubs: He did it all as a rookie except score a lot of runs (66) or steal a base.

65. Nate McLouth, OF, Pirates: His first full season was impressive, but his .261 career average in 1,305 at-bats is anything but.

64. Chipper Jones, 3B, Braves: You know he’ll hit, and you know he’ll get hurt.

63. Garrett Atkins, 3B, Rockies: You would undoubtedly prefer to get the 2006-07 Atkins (54 homers and 231 RBI) than the 2008 version who had 21 long balls and 99 RBI.

62. Vladimir Guerrero, OF, Angels: He’s still productive, but at 33, he’s no longer a top-10 talent.

61. Josh Beckett, SP, Red Sox: If you know which Beckett you’re selecting – 2008 or 2007? – the decision would be much easier.

60. Carl Crawford, OF, Rays: Don’t overpay for his stolen-base potential, especially following a season in which he swiped only 25 bags and hit .273 with eight homers and 57 RBI.

59. B.J. Upton, OF, Rays: He’s only 24 and he stole 44 bases, which makes his 2008 power drop less of a concern.

58. Derrek Lee, 1B, Cubs: He’ll hit for average with decent power numbers, but he hasn’t had a big season since 2005.

57. Magglio Ordonez, OF, Tigers: Even in a year that didn’t live up to the season before, he batted .317 with 21 homers and 103 RBI.

56. Derek Jeter, SS, Yankees: You know he’ll bat at least .300, score runs and date starlets, but if his stolen bases continue to match his home runs (11 of both in 2008), he’s no longer a top-five shortstop.

55. Francisco Liriano, SP, Twins: He was great after the All-Star break and should approach 18 wins with 200-plus strikeouts if he stays healthy.

54. Alex Rios, OF, Blue Jays: If he hits 24 homers again, as he did in 2007, he deserves to be higher.

53. Adrian Gonzalez, 1B, Padres: You know first base is deep when he ranks ninth after scoring 103 runs, hitting 36 homers and driving in 119 runs a year ago.

52. Curtis Granderson, OF, Tigers: He’s a 30-30 threat who should rebound from a down year.

51. Carlos Quentin, OF, White Sox: He’s underrated on some sites after missing the final month of last season because of a broken wrist.

We'll finish our extensive baseball preview this week with a breakdown of the top 100.

Today, Nos. 76-100, with 51-75 on Wednesday, 26-50 on Thursday and the all-important 1-25 on Friday.

In case you didn't read the top 100 in list form in print or online, we'll build the suspense by going in reverse order. (Spoiler alert: World Baseball Classic heroics didn't help Ichiro, and A-Rod's bad hip didn't damage his value as much as you might think.)

100. Adam Dunn, OF, Nationals: He’ll hit 40 homers, drive in 100 runs and strike out more than a fraternity on spring break

99. Victor Martiinez, C, INDIANS: His miserable 2008 could help you get fantasy’s best catcher entering last season at a discounted rate.

98. Joe Mauer, C, Twins: The best pure hitter among the catchers, but his back problems and single-digit homers are a concern.

97. Jon Lester, SP, Red Sox: He’s almost as good of a pitcher (16-6 with a 3.21 ERA in his first full season) as he is a story.

96. Johnny Damon, OF, Yankees: He’s not the same player, but a third outfielder who will steal at least 25 bases, bat .300 and drive in 70 runs is never a bad thing.

95. Rich Harden, SP, Cubs: He’s always been good on the rare occasions he’s been healthy, but after being traded to the Cubs in 2008, he was great (5-1, 1.77 ERA, 89 K’s, 71 innings).

94. Jose Valverde, RP, Astros: He’s saved 91 games in 105 chances with 161 strikeouts in 136 1/3 innings the last two years.

93. Robinson Cano, 2B, Yankees: His stock dropped significantly last season, but he is among the top seven at his position.

92. Adam Wainwright, SP, Cardinals: He won’t help you in strikeouts but will in wins.

91. Torii Hunter, OF, Angels: Minnesota Torii (59 homers, 205 RBI and 30 steals in 2006 and 2007) was much better than L.A. Torii (21 homers, 78 RBI, .278, 19 steals).

90. Ryan Doumit, C, Pirates: He batted .318 with 69 RBI as a rookie.

89. Raul Ibanez, OF, Phillies: The change to the National League shouldn’t affect his streak of three seasons with at least 21 homers and 105 RBI.

88. Yovani Gallardo, SP, Brewers: He’s the Brewers’ ace, and we can only hope he pitches like one at age 23.

87. Shane Victorino, OF, Phillies: We know he can steal bases (a combined 73 the last two seasons), but can he improve significantly upon his 58 RBI?

86. Jacoby Ellsbury, OF, Red Sox: A younger version of Carl Crawford (50-plus steals with little power).

85. Jermaine Dye, OF, White Sox: He’s hit at least 28 homers in each of the last four seasons, and he had 77 extra-base hits last season.

84. Stephen Drew, SS, Diamondbacks: J.D.’s younger, much healthier brother can hit for average and power at short.

83. Carlos Marmol, RP, Cubs: Make sure he wins the closer’s job first, but with a 2.68 ERA in 2008 and 210 strikeouts in 156 2/3 innings the last three seasons, how can’t he?

82. Hunter Pence, OF, Astros: If only we could combine his 2008 power (25 homers, 83 RBI) with his 2007 batting average (.322).

81. Michael Young, 3B, Rangers: He moves to third and takes his reduced power with him.

80. Joba Chamberlain, SP, Yankees: He gets another chance to start full-time, a role in which he was 3-1 with a 2.76 ERA and 74 strikeouts in 65 1/3 innings last season.

79. Carlos Guillen, OF, Tigers: His move to the outfield, along with his decrease in power, doesn’t help his fantasy value.

78. Felix Hernandez, SP, Mariners: Maybe this will be the season the ultra-talented 22-year-old puts it all together.

77. Corey Hart, OF, Brewers: He’s stolen 23 bases in each of the last two seasons and has 44 homers in that span.

76. Alexei Ramirez, SS, White Sox: He makes the move from second to short, but his promising rookie season remains in our minds.

Entering last season, all we seemed to remember about Cliff Lee was his awful 2007 season.

We overlooked the fact that from 2004-06, Lee was a combined 46-24 with the Tribe.

Remember that mistake on draft day 2009. Don't let Lee's fantastic 2008 -- when he was 22-3 with a 2.54 ERA in his Cy Young season -- dominate your thoughts. Remember his 2007 struggles, and don't forget that he's not a big asset in the strikeout department.

Lee averaged 6.7 strikeouts per nine innings from 2004-06, when he had uncharacteristically high WHIP totals for a pitcher who averaged more than 15 wins per season (a WHIP of 1.50 in 2004, 1.22 in 2005 and 1.41 in 2006).

Is Lee a top-10 pitcher in fantasy? I say yes, but I also wouldn't reach on him for draft day. He's a low-end No. 1 starter who's capable of winning 15 to 18 games, but I doubt he'll reach 20 again, and he probably won't strike out 170, either.

He's a decent late third-round or early fourth-round pick in 12-team leagues. He's a relatively safe bet -- as long as you don't make the pick expecting the 2008 Lee to be your 2009 ace.

Before we get to the rankings of the top starting pitchers, a couple quick notes:

The rankings of the top catchers, first basemen and outfielders that are accessible on the right have been updated to reflect Joe Mauer's back injury, Pudge Rodriguez's signing with the Astros and the Nationals wisely deciding that Adam Dunn is an outfielder, not a first baseman.

Next week, we'll post a list of our top 100 players overall.

Until then, happy drafting.

STARTING PITCHERS

1. Tim Lincecum, Giants
2. Brandon Webb, Diamondbacks
3. Johan Santana, Mets
4. CC Sabathia, Yankees
5. Roy Halladay, Blue Jays
6. Cole Hamels, Phillies
7. Jake Peavy, Padres
8. Roy Oswalt, Astros
9. Dan Haren, Diamondbacks
10. Cliff Lee, Indians
11. John Lackey, Angels
12. James Shields, Rays
13. Francisco Liriano, Twins
14. Josh Beckett, Red Sox
15. Chad Billingsley, Dodgers
16. Daisuke Matsuzaka, Red Sox
17. Scott Kazmir, Rays
18. Felix Hernandez, Mariners
19. Joba Chamberlain, Yankees
20. Yovani Gallardo, Brewers
21. Adam Wainwright, Cardinals
22. Rich Harden, Cubs
23. Jon Lester, Red Sox
24. Matt Garza, Rays
25. Scott Baker, Twins
26. Ervin Santana, Angels
27. Justin Verlander, Tigers
28. Ricky Nolasco, Marlins
29. Carlos Zambrano, Cubs
30. Edinson Volquez, Reds
31. A.J. Burnett, Yankees
32. Zack Greinke, Royals
33. Aaron Harang, Reds
34. David Price, Rays
35. Ted Lilly, Cubs
36. Derek Lowe, Braves
37. Kevin Slowey, Twins
38. Javier Vazquez, Braves
39. Ryan Dempster, Cubs
40. Chien-Ming Wang, Yankees
41. Erik Bedard, Mariners
42. Matt Cain, Giants
43. Josh Johnson, Marlins
44. Randy Johnson, Giants
45. Jair Jurrjens, Braves
46. Hiroki Kuroda, Dodgers
47. John Danks, White Sox
48. Brett Myers, Phillies
49. Fausto Carmona, Indians
50. Jered Weaver, Angels
51. Gavin Floyd, White Sox
52. Justin Duchscherer, A’s
53. Gil Meche, Royals
54. Mark Buehrle, White Sox
55. Chris Young, Padres
56. John Maine, Mets
57. Brandon Morrow, Mariners
58. Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers
59. Ubaldo Jimenez, Rockies
60. Max Scherzer, Diamondbacks
61. Jeremy Guthrie, Orioles
62. Armando Galarraga, Tigers
63. Oliver Perez, Mets
64. Andy Sonnanstine, Rays
65. Chris Volstad, Marlins
66. Johnny Cueto, Reds
67. Manny Parra, Brewers
68. Mike Pelfrey, Mets
69. Joe Saunders, Angels
70. Paul Maholm, Pirates
71. Jonathan Sanchez, Giants
72. Kyle Lohse, Cardinals
73. Jesse Litsch, Blue Jays
74. Dave Bush, Brewers
75. Andy Pettitte, Yankees

SHORT HOPS

The Mets’ Santana says he’ll be ready for opening day, but concerns over a sore elbow bump him from the top spot. ... The diminutive Lincecum averaged 10.5 strikeouts per nine innings last season, and Webb is 56-25 in his last three seasons. ... Don’t be fooled by Peavy’s low win total. He was 19-6 with a 2.54 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP and 240 strikeouts in 2007. ... Liriano was 6-1 with a 2.74 ERA and 60 strikeouts in 65 2/3 innings after the All-Streak break last season. ... The Angels’ Santana would be in the top 15 if it weren’t for an elbow injury, which likely will force him to the disabled list to start the season. ... The brittle Harden, at 148 innings, had his biggest workload since 2004. He struck out 89 in 71 innings after being traded to the Cubs. ... The 33-year-old Lilly has won a combined 32 games the last two years. ... The Giants’ Cain is a top-30 pitcher on some sites, despite a 15-30 record the last two seasons. ... Verlander could be a steal if he returns to his 2007 form (18-6, 3.66 ERA). ... Same goes for Bedard, who was a combined 28-16 with 392 K’s in 2006 and 2007. ... The promising Duchscherer might start the season on the DL because of elbow soreness. ... A possible sleeper: the Mariners’ Morrow, a former reliever who struck out 75 in 64 2/3 innings last season. ... The Indians’ Carmona is underrated because of a terrible 2008. He was 19-8 with a 3.06 ERA the year before. ... Two names to remember: John Smoltz, who will start the season on the DL in Boston but could be an asset in the second half, and Twins fifth starter Nick Blackburn, who won 11 games in his first full big-league season.

Even in an All-Star season, Kerry Wood spent a few weeks on the disabled list last season -- his 12th trip to the DL in his career.

Unless your name is Adam Miller, it was a relatively minor injury -- a blister on his pitching hand -- not a serious arm injury that had befallen Wood earlier in his Cubs tenure.

A $20.5 million contract later, Wood is the Tribe's new closer, and the latest to take the reins at the back end of their volatile pen. If recent history is any indication, Wood should be productive this season, then lose it and be out of baseball.

The concern for fantasy owners is Wood always seems to get hurt. It's just a matter of when, and how prepared you are for his next malady.

This much we know: If he stays relatively healthy, he should save 35 to 40 games and help you in the strikeout department. In his career, he has 1,407 K's in 1,219 1/3 innings, an average of 10.4 strikeouts per nine innings.

We also know during his first nine years as a starter with the Cubs, he pitched more than 140 1/3 innings three times.

That history relegates Wood to the second tier of closers in my mind -- an ideal No. 2 stopper in a 10-team league, or a low-level No. 1 in a 12-team league.

Before we get to the rankings of the top relievers, a quick note: Thursday, we'll post the top starting pitchers and Friday we'll look at the top 100 players overall.

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. … Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

RELIEF PITCHERS

Rank, player, team: IP, W-L, ERA, K’s, Saves-opportunities

1. Jonathan Papelbon, Red Sox: 69.1, 5-4, 2.34, 77, 41-46
2. Joe Nathan, Twins: 67.2, 1-2, 1.33, 74, 39-45
3. Brad Lidge, Phillies: 69.1, 2-0, 1.95, 92, 41-41
4. Francisco Rodriguez, Mets: 68.1, 2-3, 2.24, 77, 62-69
5. Mariano Rivera, Yankees: 70.2, 6-5, 1.40, 77, 39-40
6. Joakim Soria, Royals: 67.1, 2-3, 1.60, 66, 42-45
7. Carlos Marmol, Cubs: 87.1, 2-4, 2.68, 114, 7-9
8. Jose Valverde, Astros: 72, 6-3, 3.38, 83, 44-51
9. Brian Fuentes, Angels: 62.2, 1-5, 2.73, 82, 30-34
10. Jonathan Broxton, Dodgers: 69, 3-5, 3.13, 88, 14-22
11. Bobby Jenks, White Sox: 61.2, 3-1, 2.63, 38, 30-34
12. Kerry Wood, Indians: 66.1, 5-4, 3.26, 84, 34-40
13. Francisco Cordero, Reds: 70.1, 5-4, 3.33, 78, 34-40
14. B.J. Ryan, Blue Jays: 58, 2-4, 2.95, 58, 32-36
15. Matt Capps, Pirates: 53.2, 2-3, 3.02, 39, 21-26
16. Trevor Hoffman, Brewers: 45.1, 3-6, 3.77, 46, 30-34
17. Heath Bell, Padres: 78, 6-6, 3.58, 71, 0-7
18. Brian Wilson, Giants: 62.1, 3-2, 4.62, 67, 41-47
19. Joey Devine, A’s: 45.2, 6-1, 0.59, 49, 1-2
20. Joel Hanrahan, Nationals: 84.1, 6-3, 3.95, 93, 9-13
21. Frank Francisco, Rangers: 63.1, 3-5, 3.13, 83, 5-11
22. Huston Street, Rockies: 70, 7-5, 3.73, 69, 18-25
23. Chris Perez, Cardinals: 41.2, 3-3, 3.46, 42, 7-11
24. George Sherrill, Orioles: 53.1, 3-5, 4.73, 58, 31-37
25. Chad Qualls, Diamondbacks: 73.2, 4-8, 2.81, 71, 9-17
26. Mike Gonzalez, Braves: 33.2, 0-3, 4.28, 44, 14-16
27. Troy Percival, Rays: 45.2, 2-1, 4.53, 38, 28-32
28. Matt Lindstrom, Marlins: 57.1, 3-3, 3.14, 43, 5-6
29. Brandon Lyon, Tigers: 59.1, 3-5, 4.70, 44, 26-31
30. Brad Ziegler, A’s: 59.2, 3-0, 1.06, 30, 11-13

SHORT HOPS

Nathan has registered at least 36 saves for five straight seasons. ... The seemingly indestructible Rivera, who had offseason shoulder surgery, allowed only 41 hits in 70 2/3 innings in 2008. ... Before you draft the electric Marmol as your top closer, make sure he’s beaten out Kevin Gregg, who saved a combined 61 games in 2007 and 2008 with the Marlins. ... The Dodgers’ closing role is all Broxton’s. He has struck out 306 batters in 241 innings in his career. ... Fuentes takes over for the record-setting Rodriguez with the Angels. The former had 30 or more saves three times in the last four seasons with the Rockies. ... Valverde isn’t a great WHIP or ERA asset, but he’s saved 91 games and has 161 strikeouts in 136 1/3 innings the last two seasons. ... The Pirates’ Capps isn’t a big help in the K department. ... Street, who had 37 saves for the A’s in 2006, is the favorite to close games in Colorado. ... The Braves’ Gonzalez, who has blown only two of his last 42 save opportunities, would be ranked higher if he could stay healthy. ... Perez, Ryan Franklin and Jason Motte all are candidates to finish games in St. Louis. ... Two names to remember: Mark Lowe, who might be the Mariners’ closer by default, and Manny Corpas (19 saves in 2007), Street’s competition with the Rockies.

We'll cap our second week of baseball preview rankings with a complete list of all the batters -- sans the short hops that appeared with each individual list.

Next week, we'll rank the starting pitchers and relievers, and finish the week with an overall top 100.

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. … Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

CATCHERS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Brian McCann, Braves: 68-23-87-5-.301
2. Russell Martin, Dodgers: 87-13-69-18-.280
3. Geovany Soto, Cubs: 66-23-86-0-.285
4. Ryan Doumit, Pirates: 71-15-69-2-.318
5. Joe Mauer, Twins: 98-9-85-1-.328
6. Victor Martinez, INDIANS: 30-2-35-0-.278
7. Jorge Posada, Yankees: 18-3-22-0-.268
8. Mike Napoli, Angels: 39-20-49-7-.273
9. Chris Iannetta, Rockies: 50-18-65-0-.264
10. Bengie Molina, Giants: 46-16-95-0-.292
11. Ramon Hernandez, Reds: 49-15-65-0-.257
12. Chris Snyder, Diamondbacks: 47-16-64-0-.237
13. A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox: 66-13-60-1-.281
14. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Rangers: 27-3-26-0-.253
15. Kelly Shoppach, INDIANS: 67-21-55-0-.261
16. Ivan Rodriguez, Astros: 44-7-35-10-.276
17. Matt Wieters, Orioles: ROOKIE
18. Dioner Navarro, Rays: 43-7-54-0-.295
19. Kurt Suzuki, A’s: 54-7-42-2-.279
20. Jeff Clement, Mariners: 17-5-23-0-.227

FIRST BASEMEN

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Albert Pujols, Cardinals: 100-37-116-7-.357
2. Lance Berkman, Astros: 114-29-106-18-.312
3. Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 102-33-121-2-.308
4. Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 85-37-127-1-.292
5. Ryan Howard, Phillies: 105-48-146-1-.251
6. Justin Morneau, Twins: 97-23-129-0-.300
7. Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox: 91-29-115-3-.312
8. Prince Fielder, Brewers: 86-34-102-3-.276
9. Adrian Gonzalez, Padres: 103-36-119-0-.279
10. Derrek Lee, Cubs: 93-20-90-8-.291
11. Carlos Pena, Rays: 76-31-102-1-.247
12. Joey Votto, Reds: 69-24-84-7-.297
13. Chris Davis, Rangers: 51-17-55-1-.285
14. Aubrey Huff, Orioles: 96-32-108-4-.304
15. Carlos Delgado, Mets: 96-38-115-1-.271
16. James Loney, Dodgers: 66-13-90-7-.289
17. Adam LaRoche, Pirates: 66-25-85-1-.270
18. Paul Konerko, White Sox: 59-22-62-2-.240
19. Mike Jacobs, Royals: 67-32-93-1-.247
20. Jason Giambi, Athletics: 68-32-96-2-.247

SECOND BASEMEN

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 118-17-83-20-.326
2. Chase Utley, Phillies: 113-33-104-14-.292
3. Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 102-18-71-26-.319
4. Brandon Phillips, Reds: 80-21-78-23-.261
5. Brian Roberts, Orioles: 107-9-57-40-.296
6. Dan Uggla, Marlins: 97-32-92-5-.260
7. Robinson Cano, Yankees: 70-14-72-2-.271
8. Placido Polanco, Tigers: 90-8-58-7-.307
9. Jose Lopez, Mariners: 80-17-89-6-.297
10. Kelly Johnson, Braves: 86-12-69-11-.287
11. Howie Kendrick, Angels: 43-3-37-11-.306
12. Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 89-14-46-19-.234
13. Orlando Hudson, Dodgers: 54-8-41-4-.305
14. Freddy Sanchez, Pirates: 75-9-52-0-.271
15. Kazuo Matsui, Astros: 58-6-33-20-.293
16. Aaron Hill, Blue Jays: 19-2-20-4-.263
17. Akinori Iwamura, Rays: 91-6-48-8-.274
18. Felipe Lopez, Diamondbacks: 64-6-46-8-.283
19. Mark Ellis, A’s: 55-12-41-14-.233
20. Alexi Casilla, Twins: 58-7-50-7-.281

SHORTSTOPS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Hanley Ramirez, Marlins: 125-33-67-35-.301
2. Jose Reyes, Mets: 113-16-68-56-.297
3. Jimmy Rollins, Phillies: 76-11-59-47-.277
4. Derek Jeter, Yankees: 88-11-69-11-.300
5. Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 48-8-46-1-.263
6. Rafael Furcal, Dodgers: 34-5-16-8-.357
7. Alexei Ramirez, White Sox: 65-21-71-13-.290
8. Stephen Drew, Diamondbacks: 91-21-67-3-.291
9. J.J. Hardy, Brewers: 78-24-74-2-.283
10. Miguel Tejada, Astros: 92-13-66-7-.283
11. Jhonny Peralta, Indians: 104-23-89-3-.276
12. Yunel Escobar, Braves: 71-10-60-2-.288
13. Mike Aviles, Royals: 68-10-51-8-.325
14. Ryan Theriot, Cubs: 85-1-38-22-.307
15. Jed Lowrie, Red Sox: 34-2-46-1-.258
16. Orlando Cabrera, A’s: 93-8-57-19-.281
17. Edgar Renteria, Giants: 69-10-55-6-.270
18. Khalil Greene, Cardinals: 30-10-35-5-.213
19. Cristian Guzman, Nationals: 77-9-55-6-.316
20. Erick Aybar, Angels: 53-3-39-7-.277

THIRD BASEMEN

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. David Wright, Mets: 115-33-124-15-.302
2. Evan Longoria, Rays: 67-27-85-7-.272
3. Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 104-35-103-18-.302
4. Aramis Ramirez, Cubs: 97-27-111-2-.289
5. Garrett Atkins, Rockies: 86-21-99-1-.286
6. Chipper Jones, Braves: 82-22-75-4-.364
7. Michael Young, Rangers: 102-12-82-10-.284
8. Adrian Beltre, Mariners: 74-25-77-8-.266
9. Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals: 51-14-51-1-.283
10. Chone Figgins, Angels: 72-1-22-34-.276
11. Mark DeRosa, INDIANS: 103-21-87-6-.285
12. Melvin Mora, Orioles: 77-23-104-3-.285
13. Jorge Cantu, Marlins: 92-29-95-6-.277
14. Mark Reynolds, Diamondbacks: 87-28-97-11-.239
15. Edwin Encarnacion, Reds: 75-26-68-1-.251
16. Alex Gordon, Royals: 72-16-59-9-.260
17. Mike Lowell, Red Sox: 58-17-73-2-.274
18. Kevin Kouzmanoff, Padres: 71-23-84-0-.260
19. Casey Blake, Dodgers: 71-21-81-3-.274
20. Bill Hall, Brewers: 50-15-55-5-.225

DESIGNATED HITTERS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. David Ortiz, Red Sox: 74-23-89-1-.264
2. Jim Thome, White Sox: 93-34-90-1-.245
3. Travis Hafner, INDIANS: 21-5-24-1-.197
4. Pat Burrell, Rays: 74-33-86-0-.250
5. Hideki Matsui, Yankees: 43-9-45-0-.294
6. Gary Sheffield, Tigers: 52-19-57-9-.225
7. Jason Kubel, Twins: 74-20-78-0-.272
8. Jack Cust, A’s: 77-33-77-0-.231
9. Ken Griffey Jr., Mariners: 67-18-71-0-.249
10. Billy Butler, Royals: 44-11-55-0-.275

OUTFIELDERS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.

1. Ryan Braun, Brewers: 92-37-106-14-.285
2. Grady Sizemore, INDIANS: 101-33-90-38-.268
3. Alfonso Soriano, Cubs: 76-29-75-19-.280
4. Manny Ramirez, Dodgers: 102-37-121-3-.331
5. Josh Hamilton, Rangers: 98-32-130-9-.304
6. Carlos Lee, Astros: 61-28-100-4-.314
7. Matt Holliday, A’s: 107-25-88-28-.321
8. Carlos Beltran, Mets: 116-27-112-25-.284
9. Nick Markakis, Orioles: 106-20-87-10-.306
10. Matt Kemp, Dodgers: 93-18-76-35-.290
11. Jason Bay, Red Sox: 111-31-101-10-.286
12. Carlos Quentin, White Sox: 96-36-100-7-.288
13. Curtis Granderson, Tigers: 112-22-66-12-.280
14. Alex Rios, Blue Jays: 91-15-79-32-.291
15. Magglio Ordonez, Tigers: 72-21-103-1-.317
16. B.J. Upton, Rays: 85-9-67-44-.273
17. Carl Crawford, Rays: 69-8-57-25-.273
18. Vladimir Guerrero, Angels: 85-27-91-5-.303
19. Nate McLouth, Pirates: 113-26-94-23-.276
20. Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners: 103-6-42-43-.310
21. Bobby Abreu, Angels: 100-20-100-22-.296
22. Corey Hart, Brewers: 76-20-91-23-.268
23. Carlos Guillen, Tigers: 68-10-54-9-.289
24. Hunter Pence, Astros: 78-25-83-11-.269
25. Jermaine Dye, White Sox: 96-34-96-3-.292
26. Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox: 98-9-47-50-.280
27. Shane Victorino, Phillies: 102-14-58-36-.293
28. Raul Ibanez, Phillies: 85-23-110-2-.293
29. Torii Hunter, Angels: 85-21-78-19-.278
30. Johnny Damon, Yankees: 95-17-71-29-.303
31. Adam Dunn, Nationals: 79-40-100-1-.236
32. Vernon Wells, Blue Jays: 63-20-78-4-.300
33. Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 90-20-77-6-.305
34. Jay Bruce, Reds: 63-21-52-4-.254
35. Chris Young, Diamondbacks: 85-22-85-14-.248
36. Ryan Ludwick, Cardinals: 104-37-113-4-.299
37. Brad Hawpe, Rockies: 69-25-85-2-.283
38. Xavier Nady, Yankees: 76-25-97-2-.305
39. Justin Upton, Diamondbacks: 52-15-42-1-.250
40. Milton Bradley, Cubs: 78-22-77-5-.321
41. Jason Werth, Phillies: 73-24-67-20-.273
42. Rick Ankiel, Cardinals: 65-25-71-2-.264
43. Conor Jackson, Diamondbacks: 87-12-75-10-.300
44. Delmon Young, Twins: 80-10-69-14-.290
45. Lastings Milledge, Nationals: 65-14-61-24-.268
46. Jose Guillen, Royals: 66-20-97-2-.264
47. Carlos Gomez, Twins: 79-7-59-33-.258
48. Denard Span, Twins: 70-6-47-18-.294
49. Aaron Rowand, Giants: 57-13-70-2-.271
50. Adam Jones, Orioles: 61-9-57-10-.270
51. Coco Crisp, Royals: 55-7-41-20-.283
52. J.D. Drew, Red Sox: 79-19-64-4-.280
53. Elijah Dukes, Nationals: 48-13-44-13-.264
54. David DeJesus, Royals: 70-12-73-11-.307
55. Randy Winn, Giants: 84-10-64-25-.306
56. Nelson Cruz, Rangers: 19-7-26-3-.330
57. Mike Cameron, Brewers: 69-25-70-17-.243
58. Willy Taveras, Reds: 64-1-26-68-.251
59. Garret Anderson, Braves: 66-15-84-7-.293
60. Fred Lewis, Giants: 81-12-63-2-.306

The best thing about Grady Sizemore from a fantasy perspective: This is a rare case in which it's OK to be a homer.

Cleveland sports fans tend to overrate their best athletes in fantasy -- see Edwards, Braylon -- and Sizemore, the face of the Tribe, will be one of the most desired commodities in many area leagues on draft day.

He's a legitimate 40-40 candidate who does everything in five-category leagues except hit for average.

That negative -- Sizemore has batted only .277 and .268 the last two seasons -- prevents him from being a top-five overall pick in my book. But I do think he's the second-best outfielder in fantasy, and the sixth-best player overall.

I wouldn't reach for him in the top five, especially in points leagues in which you're penalized for strikeouts (Sizemore has averaged 143 K's the last four seasons). But I would feel very good if I was able to acquire him at No. 6, after Albert Pujols, Hanley Ramirez, Jose Reyes, David Wright and Ryan Braun are off the board.

Sizemore's averages the last four years: 116 runs, 41 doubles, eight triples, 27 homers, 81 RBI, 76 extra-base hits and 29 steals.

He batted .289 and .290 in 2005 and 2006, respectively, and it's reasonable to expect him to hit in the .280 range with 30-plus homers, 30-plus steals and 90 RBI.

On to the top outfielders, with a position-by-position recap of all the batters coming later in the week ...

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. … Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

OUTFIELDERS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.

1. Ryan Braun, Brewers: 92-37-106-14-.285
2. Grady Sizemore, INDIANS: 101-33-90-38-.268
3. Alfonso Soriano, Cubs: 76-29-75-19-.280
4. Manny Ramirez, Dodgers: 102-37-121-3-.331
5. Josh Hamilton, Rangers: 98-32-130-9-.304
6. Carlos Lee, Astros: 61-28-100-4-.314
7. Matt Holliday, A’s: 107-25-88-28-.321
8. Carlos Beltran, Mets: 116-27-112-25-.284
9. Nick Markakis, Orioles: 106-20-87-10-.306
10. Matt Kemp, Dodgers: 93-18-76-35-.290
11. Jason Bay, Red Sox: 111-31-101-10-.286
12. Carlos Quentin, White Sox: 96-36-100-7-.288
13. Curtis Granderson, Tigers: 112-22-66-12-.280
14. Alex Rios, Blue Jays: 91-15-79-32-.291
15. Magglio Ordonez, Tigers: 72-21-103-1-.317
16. B.J. Upton, Rays: 85-9-67-44-.273
17. Carl Crawford, Rays: 69-8-57-25-.273
18. Vladimir Guerrero, Angels: 85-27-91-5-.303
19. Nate McLouth, Pirates: 113-26-94-23-.276
20. Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners: 103-6-42-43-.310
21. Bobby Abreu, Angels: 100-20-100-22-.296
22. Corey Hart, Brewers: 76-20-91-23-.268
23. Carlos Guillen, Tigers: 68-10-54-9-.289
24. Hunter Pence, Astros: 78-25-83-11-.269
25. Jermaine Dye, White Sox: 96-34-96-3-.292
26. Jacoby Ellsbury, Red Sox: 98-9-47-50-.280
27. Shane Victorino, Phillies: 102-14-58-36-.293
28. Raul Ibanez, Phillies: 85-23-110-2-.293
29. Torii Hunter, Angels: 85-21-78-19-.278
30. Johnny Damon, Yankees: 95-17-71-29-.303
31. Adam Dunn, Nationals: 79-40-100-1-.236
32. Vernon Wells, Blue Jays: 63-20-78-4-.300
33. Andre Ethier, Dodgers: 90-20-77-6-.305
34. Jay Bruce, Reds: 63-21-52-4-.254
35. Chris Young, Diamondbacks: 85-22-85-14-.248
36. Ryan Ludwick, Cardinals: 104-37-113-4-.299
37. Brad Hawpe, Rockies: 69-25-85-2-.283
38. Xavier Nady, Yankees: 76-25-97-2-.305
39. Justin Upton, Diamondbacks: 52-15-42-1-.250
40. Milton Bradley, Cubs: 78-22-77-5-.321
41. Jason Werth, Phillies: 73-24-67-20-.273
42. Rick Ankiel, Cardinals: 65-25-71-2-.264
43. Conor Jackson, Diamondbacks: 87-12-75-10-.300
44. Delmon Young, Twins: 80-10-69-14-.290
45. Lastings Milledge, Nationals: 65-14-61-24-.268
46. Jose Guillen, Royals: 66-20-97-2-.264
47. Carlos Gomez, Twins: 79-7-59-33-.258
48. Denard Span, Twins: 70-6-47-18-.294
49. Aaron Rowand, Giants: 57-13-70-2-.271
50. Adam Jones, Orioles: 61-9-57-10-.270
51. Coco Crisp, Royals: 55-7-41-20-.283
52. J.D. Drew, Red Sox: 79-19-64-4-.280
53. Elijah Dukes, Nationals: 48-13-44-13-.264
54. David DeJesus, Royals: 70-12-73-11-.307
55. Randy Winn, Giants: 84-10-64-25-.306
56. Nelson Cruz, Rangers: 19-7-26-3-.330
57. Mike Cameron, Brewers: 69-25-70-17-.243
58. Willy Taveras, Reds: 64-1-26-68-.251
59. Garret Anderson, Braves: 66-15-84-7-.293
60. Fred Lewis, Giants: 81-12-63-2-.306

SHORT HOPS

As always, the position is deep, but it’s not as loaded at the top as in past years. ... Braun will provide power and hit for average, but his stolen bases dropped from 29 in 2007 to 14 last season. ... Soriano can do it all, but is an injury risk. ... The player with the lowest upside of the top four is also the most consistent: the enigmatic Ramirez, who batted .396 with 17 homers and 53 RBI in only 187 at-bats after he was traded to the Dodgers last year. ... Holliday leaves the friendly confines of Coors Field, where he accounted for 15 of his 25 homers and 59 of his 88 RBI last season. ... Don’t overrate Crawford and Ichiro because they steal bases. Crawford is at least a power threat (he had a combined 29 homers and 157 RBI in 2006 and 2007). ... Another player whose value has dropped is Guerrero, whose 91 RBI last season was his lowest total since 2003. ... A value pick as a second outfielder: Abreu, who has driven in at least 100 runs six straight years and has a combined 67 steals in his last three seasons. ... Quentin is underrated on some sites after breaking his wrist late last season. He needed just 480 at-bats to compile 36 homers and 100 RBI. ... The Tigers’ Guillen makes the move to the outfield, and is a versatile option who should be eligible at first and third base. ... Dunn, who can match Ryan Howard K-for-K, has 886 strikeouts in his last five seasons, but he’s also had at least 40 homers and 92 RBI each year in that span. ... Before you draft the Twins’ Delmon Young, make sure he’s a regular. He’s currently listed as Minnesota’s fourth outfielder and could play behind the promising Denard Span in left. ... Two names to remember: The Braves’ Jeff Francoeur -- who had a combined 48 homers and 208 RBI in 2006 and 2007, but was awful last year (.239, 11 homers, 71 RBI) -- and the Indians’ Shin-Soo Choo. The latter batted .309 with 14 homers and 66 RBI in 317 at-bats last season, but didn’t crack the top 60 because of concerns about his elbow injury.

The true designated hitter -- not the extra outfielder or first baseman from your fantasy roster whom you plug into your lineup as your ninth batter -- isn't of much use to fantasy owners.

Most of the time, they are eligible at only one position -- DH -- and it's a position at which leagues allow you to play anybody.

So if you have a choice between a one-armed, sore-shouldered Travis Hafner and, say, a Carlos Pena or Jermaine Dye, that's an easier decision than Jessica Biel or Jessica Sierra (and if you don't know the latter, you were definitely late to the party when it comes to "Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew").

When you draft a true DH, he better be the caliber of David Ortiz or Jim Thome -- threats to hit 30-plus homers and drive in 100 runs.

Hafner was that player from 2004-06, when he averaged 32 homers, 111 RBI and batted between .305 and .311 with an OPS of .993 to 1.098. He was still productive in 2007, when he had 24 homers and 100 RBI, but his average dropped to .266, his runs scored to 80 and his OPS to .836.

He's trying to come back from offseason surgery on his bum shoulder, and he will turn 32 on June 3. He might produce on the level of the 2007 Hafner, or he might be done faster than you can say David Dellucci.

To be safe, I would draft him late as a backup and hope he's more Pronk and less Dellucci.

Tomorrow, we'll post the top outfielders. On to the designated hitters ...

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. ... Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

DESIGNATED HITTERS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. David Ortiz, Red Sox: 74-23-89-1-.264
2. Jim Thome, White Sox: 93-34-90-1-.245
3. Travis Hafner, INDIANS: 21-5-24-1-.197
4. Pat Burrell, Rays: 74-33-86-0-.250
5. Hideki Matsui, Yankees: 43-9-45-0-.294
6. Gary Sheffield, Tigers: 52-19-57-9-.225
7. Jason Kubel, Twins: 74-20-78-0-.272
8. Jack Cust, A’s: 77-33-77-0-.231
9. Ken Griffey Jr., Mariners: 67-18-71-0-.249
10. Billy Butler, Royals: 44-11-55-0-.275

SHORT HOPS

Ortiz had a combined 178 homers and 541 RBI from 2004-07. His injury concerns should cause him to fall into the fifth or sixth round. ... This list contains quite a few fading former fantasy studs, as Sheffield hasn’t had a big year since 2005, Matsui lost his power last season and Griffey was a fantasy backup. ... Oakland’s Cust has huge power (59 homers the last two seasons), but is a strikeout waiting to happen (a combined 361 the last two years). ... The second-best player on this list could end up being Burrell, who has had at least 29 homers and 86 RBI each of the last four seasons and moves into the middle of the Rays’ dangerous lineup.

It wasn't enough for Alex Rodriguez to be the story of the offseason. Now he's the story heading into the major-league season.

Just in case you haven't tuned into "SportsCenter" -- aka A-Rod, Manny and T.O. Central -- in the past 24 hours, the Yankee of many tabloid nicknames is going to try to play through a torn labrum in his hip.

If it proves to be too much, he will have surgery and could miss up to four months. If he can play through it, will he be the A-Rod of old -- the one who has 11 straight seasons with at least 35 home runs and 103 RBI?

We'll get into this much more as the season nears with our preview stories in print and in this space, but here are a few quick stats: Rodriguez's home-run total has been at 35 in both 2006 and 2008 -- his lowest since 1997, when he was 22-year-old shortstop in Seattle.

He turns 34 this summer, and he's coming off a season in which he missed 24 games and had 103 RBI, also his lowest since 1997.

If you could guarantee a repeat of 2008 (35 homers, 103 RBI, 18 steals, a .302 average and 104 runs), you'd take it. But you won't be completely comfortable calling or clicking A-Rod's name on draft day.

His injury drops him from No. 1 to 3 on this list, and the ranking could get lower depending on how the rest of the month unfolds. Which for A-Rod can only mean more drama.

Next week, we'll post the rankings of the top outfielders and designated hitters, as well as a comprehensive list of all batters. We'll post the top pitchers the following week.

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. ... Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

THIRD BASEMEN

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. David Wright, Mets: 115-33-124-15-.302
2. Evan Longoria, Rays: 67-27-85-7-.272
3. Alex Rodriguez, Yankees: 104-35-103-18-.302
4. Aramis Ramirez, Cubs: 97-27-111-2-.289
5. Garrett Atkins, Rockies: 86-21-99-1-.286
6. Chipper Jones, Braves: 82-22-75-4-.364
7. Michael Young, Rangers: 102-12-82-10-.284
8. Adrian Beltre, Mariners: 74-25-77-8-.266
9. Ryan Zimmerman, Nationals: 51-14-51-1-.283
10. Chone Figgins, Angels: 72-1-22-34-.276
11. Mark DeRosa, INDIANS: 103-21-87-6-.285
12. Melvin Mora, Orioles: 77-23-104-3-.285
13. Jorge Cantu, Marlins: 92-29-95-6-.277
14. Mark Reynolds, Diamondbacks: 87-28-97-11-.239
15. Edwin Encarnacion, Reds: 75-26-68-1-.251
16. Alex Gordon, Royals: 72-16-59-9-.260
17. Mike Lowell, Red Sox: 58-17-73-2-.274
18. Kevin Kouzmanoff, Padres: 71-23-84-0-.260
19. Casey Blake, Dodgers: 71-21-81-3-.274
20. Bill Hall, Brewers: 50-15-55-5-.225

SHORT HOPS

Wright’s numbers are very comparable to A-Rod, and that’s following a season in which Wright’s batting average dipped 23 points. ... Atkins gets the nod over the Braves’ Jones strictly because of the latter’s habit of getting hurt. Jones has batted .324, .337 and .364 the last three years. ... Young, a career .300 hitter, makes the move to third, but don’t overlook his power drop the last three seasons (35 total home runs). ... Figgins is always overrated because he steals bases, but he slipped to 34 in that category last season and he provided zero pop. ... Zimmerman drove in a combined 201 runs in 2006 and 2007. ... The versatile DeRosa can also play second base and the outfield. ... Strikeout alert: Reynolds whiffed a ridiculous 204 times in 539 at-bats last season. ... Cantu and Lowell, who was great in 2007, can provide late value. ... Two to remember: The Cardinals’ Troy Glaus (27 homers and 99 RBI last season) is expected to miss at least the first month of the season because of a shoulder injury. The Giants’ Pedro Sandoval batted .345 with three homers and 24 RBI in 145 at-bats as a rookie last season.

As a fan, you have every right to wish the Tribe would move Jhonny Peralta to third base.

As a fantasy owner, the team's reluctance to make the switch is a benefit.

Peralta will never be mistaken with Florida's Hanley Ramirez, and he ranks only 11th on the list that follows, but he is more of a fantasy asset at shortstop than he would be at the hot corner.

In 12-team leagues, Peralta is a backup at third. At shortstop, he's a low-level starter.

He's hit 21 or more home runs in three of his last four seasons, and he's coming off a year in which he set career highs in RBI (89), runs scored (104), doubles (42) and extra-base hits (69).

If you fill the rest of your infield and outfield before selecting a shortstop, Peralta isn't a bad option. But keep in mind his high strikeout totals (he's had 126 or more four straight years, with a combined 298 in 2006 and 2007) if you play in points leagues that penalize for K's. He's also not going to help your batting average (.268 career).

Friday, we'll rate the third basemen, where the rankings were altered significantly with the latest news on Alex Rodriguez's hip injury.

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. … Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

SHORTSTOPS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Hanley Ramirez, Marlins: 125-33-67-35-.301
2. Jose Reyes, Mets: 113-16-68-56-.297
3. Jimmy Rollins, Phillies: 76-11-59-47-.277
4. Derek Jeter, Yankees: 88-11-69-11-.300
5. Troy Tulowitzki, Rockies: 48-8-46-1-.263
6. Rafael Furcal, Dodgers: 34-5-16-8-.357
7. Alexei Ramirez, White Sox: 65-21-71-13-.290
8. Stephen Drew, Diamondbacks: 91-21-67-3-.291
9. J.J. Hardy, Brewers: 78-24-74-2-.283
10. Miguel Tejada, Astros: 92-13-66-7-.283
11. Jhonny Peralta, Indians: 104-23-89-3-.276
12. Yunel Escobar, Braves: 71-10-60-2-.288
13. Mike Aviles, Royals: 68-10-51-8-.325
14. Ryan Theriot, Cubs: 85-1-38-22-.307
15. Jed Lowrie, Red Sox: 34-2-46-1-.258
16. Orlando Cabrera, A’s: 93-8-57-19-.281
17. Edgar Renteria, Giants: 69-10-55-6-.270
18. Khalil Greene, Cardinals: 30-10-35-5-.213
19. Cristian Guzman, Nationals: 77-9-55-6-.316
20. Erick Aybar, Angels: 53-3-39-7-.277

SHORT HOPS

There is a big difference between the top three and the next eight. ... Ramirez and Reyes might go first and second overall in leagues that emphasize stolen bases. ... Rollins was disappointing last season, but was phenomenal the year before (.296, 30 homers, 94 RBI, 41 steals). ... Jeter batted .343 and .322 with 97 and 73 RBI, respectively, in 2006 and 2007. ... Following an impressive rookie season, the White Sox’s Ramirez moves from second to shortstop. ... Tulowitzki and Furcal had their 2008 campaigns ruined by injuries. ... The once-great Tejada might be undervalued at No. 10. ... Don’t draft Lowrie unless he beats out the overpaid Julio Lugo in Boston. ... One to watch: The Rangers love 20-year-old Elvis Andrus so much they’ve moved Michael Young to third base. ... I have ranked former fantasy standouts Greene and Renteria higher than most sites. Greene was terrible last season, but did compile 27 homers and 97 RBI the year before. Renteria batted .332 in 2007.

Today, we move on to Part 3 of our rankings, and it's the second (and what will turn out to be the last) time an Indians player doesn't crack the top 20. Ryan Garko, you are not alone.

Asdrubal Cabrera was very good after the All-Star break last season -- a .320 batting average with five home runs, 33 RBI, 32 runs scored and 13 doubles in 194 at-bats. Before the break, he was dreadful, batting .184 with one homer and 14 RBI.

He should be eligible and both second base and shortstop in your league, and he could prove to be a decent fantasy backup. I wouldn't call or click his name on draft day, however, unless you're playing in an AL-only league.

A quick programming note: Tomorrow, we'll rank the shortstops, with the third basemen to be posted on Friday. The top outfielders and designated hitters will be on the site next week.

About the rankings: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. ... Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

SECOND BASEMEN

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Dustin Pedroia, Red Sox: 118-17-83-20-.326
2. Chase Utley, Phillies: 113-33-104-14-.292
3. Ian Kinsler, Rangers: 102-18-71-26-.319
4. Brandon Phillips, Reds: 80-21-78-23-.261
5. Brian Roberts, Orioles: 107-9-57-40-.296
6. Dan Uggla, Marlins: 97-32-92-5-.260
7. Robinson Cano, Yankees: 70-14-72-2-.271
8. Placido Polanco, Tigers: 90-8-58-7-.307
9. Jose Lopez, Mariners: 80-17-89-6-.297
10. Kelly Johnson, Braves: 86-12-69-11-.287
11. Howie Kendrick, Angels: 43-3-37-11-.306
12. Rickie Weeks, Brewers: 89-14-46-19-.234
13. Orlando Hudson, Dodgers: 54-8-41-4-.305
14. Freddy Sanchez, Pirates: 75-9-52-0-.271
15. Kazuo Matsui, Astros: 58-6-33-20-.293
16. Aaron Hill, Blue Jays: 19-2-20-4-.263
17. Akinori Iwamura, Rays: 91-6-48-8-.274
18. Felipe Lopez, Diamondbacks: 64-6-46-8-.283
19. Mark Ellis, A’s: 55-12-41-14-.233
20. Alexi Casilla, Twins: 58-7-50-7-.281

SHORT HOPS

Utley says he’ll be ready by opening day after offseason hip surgery, but I wouldn’t take him over Pedroia because of the ailment. ... There’s a big drop after the top two, with Kinsler getting the edge over Phillips because of his batting average, although Phillips could return to his 30-30 form of 2007. ... Cano was awful for much of 2008, but was great in 2006 (.342) and had a combined 34 homers and 175 RBI in ’06 and ’07. ... In leagues that penalize players for strikeouts, be wary of Uggla, who had 171 last season and has 338 K’s in the last two years. ... Weeks steals bases, but doesn’t hit for average, which is why I wouldn’t make the mistake of drafting him over the Braves’ Johnson. ... The Blue Jays’ Hill, who had his 2008 season wrecked by a concussion and says he is OK now, could be a draft-day gem. He had 17 homers, 78 RBI, 47 doubles and a .291 batting average in 2007. ... Another name to watch: Colorado’s Clint Barmes, who batted .290 with 11 homers and 44 RBI in 393 at-bats last season. He is expected to be the Rockies’ everyday second baseman this year.

The Ryan Garko who batted .319 after the All-Star break for the Indians last season is a fantasy asset. The Garko who hit .241 before the break and had just 61 runs scored, 14 home runs and 36 extra-base hits for the season? Not so much.

Garko's fantasy value isn't helped by his position, which is easily the deepest of the infield spots and features a Met with 38 homers and 115 RBI at No. 16 (Carlos Delgado), a promising Dodger who batted .289 in his first full big-league season at No. 17 (James Loney) and a Royal who had 32 homers as a Marlin in 2008 at No. 20 (Mike Jacobs).

Garko doesn't have enough pop -- a combined 35 homers in 979 at-bats the last two seasons -- to warrant a roster spot at such a quality position. If you plan on drafting him, remember that if Travis Hafner returns to health and Kelly Shoppach continues to average a home run every 17 at-bats, Victor Martinez will eat up a decent chunk of Garko's time at first base.

If that's the case, Garko will play left field or sit. Either way, I wouldn't be too optimistic.

Following are the fantasy rankings for first base, with second base to run on this site Wednesday, shortstop on Thursday and third base on Friday.

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. … Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

FIRST BASEMEN

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Albert Pujols, Cardinals: 100-37-116-7-.357
2. Lance Berkman, Astros: 114-29-106-18-.312
3. Mark Teixeira, Yankees: 102-33-121-2-.308
4. Miguel Cabrera, Tigers: 85-37-127-1-.292
5. Ryan Howard, Phillies: 105-48-146-1-.251
6. Justin Morneau, Twins: 97-23-129-0-.300
7. Kevin Youkilis, Red Sox: 91-29-115-3-.312
8. Prince Fielder, Brewers: 86-34-102-3-.276
9. Adrian Gonzalez, Padres: 103-36-119-0-.279
10. Derrek Lee, Cubs: 93-20-90-8-.291
11. Carlos Pena, Rays: 76-31-102-1-.247
12. Joey Votto, Reds: 69-24-84-7-.297
13. Chris Davis, Rangers: 51-17-55-1-.285
14. Aubrey Huff, Orioles: 96-32-108-4-.304
15. Carlos Delgado, Mets: 96-38-115-1-.271
16. James Loney, Dodgers: 66-13-90-7-.289
17. Adam LaRoche, Pirates: 66-25-85-1-.270
18. Paul Konerko, White Sox: 59-22-62-2-.240
19. Mike Jacobs, Royals: 67-32-93-1-.247
20. Jason Giambi, Athletics: 68-32-96-2-.247

SHORT HOPS

This is easily the deepest and most power-packed position in the infield. … National League MVP Pujols is the best all-around player in fantasy, and reigning home-run and RBI champ Ryan Howard ranks only fifth at his position because of his high strikeout totals (199 each of the last two years) and low batting averages (.268 in 2007 and .251 last season). … I give Berkman a slight edge over Teixeira and Cabrera because of his advantages in runs and steals. … If you can play Youkilis at third base all season, draft him there, where he’s even more valuable. … Check to see if Davis and Huff are third-base eligible in your league. The former was impressive as a rookie in 2008, and the latter had his best season since 2003. … The position is so loaded that Delgado, who had one more homer and one fewer RBI than Pujols last season, can be drafted as a backup.

We'll dive into our baseball preview this week, starting with the position the Tribe's Victor Martinez and the Yankees' Jorge Posada used to own. Both will try to come back from injury-riddled 2008 seasons, and both will be undervalued on draft day because of it.

Martinez is a safer bet to return to his former self, the one who averaged 21 home runs, 99 RBI and 37 doubles from 2004-07, a span in which he batted .301 or batter three times. He says his right elbow is fully recovered from 2008 surgery. If true, he will be a mid-round steal on draft day.

Before we get to the rankings, here's a tentative schedule for the rest of the week:

Tuesday: First basemen; Wednesday: Second basemen; Thursday: Shortstops; Friday: Third basemen; Next week: Designated hitters and outfielders, along with a complete list of the top batters. We'll get to the starting pitchers and closers the following week.

Note: Each player is listed at the position he is projected to play this season, according to the depth charts at mlb.com. … Statistics listed are from the 2008 season.

CATCHERS

Rank, player, team: R-HR-RBI-SB-Avg.
1. Brian McCann, Braves: 68-23-87-5-.301
2. Russell Martin, Dodgers: 87-13-69-18-.280
3. Geovany Soto, Cubs: 66-23-86-0-.285
4. Ryan Doumit, Pirates: 71-15-69-2-.318
5. Joe Mauer, Twins: 98-9-85-1-.328
6. Victor Martinez, INDIANS: 30-2-35-0-.278
7. Jorge Posada, Yankees: 18-3-22-0-.268
8. Mike Napoli, Angels: 39-20-49-7-.273
9. Chris Iannetta, Rockies: 50-18-65-0-.264
10. Bengie Molina, Giants: 46-16-95-0-.292
11. Ramon Hernandez, Reds: 49-15-65-0-.257
12. Chris Snyder, Diamondbacks: 47-16-64-0-.237
13. A.J. Pierzynski, White Sox: 66-13-60-1-.281
14. Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Rangers: 27-3-26-0-.253
15. Kelly Shoppach, INDIANS: 67-21-55-0-.261
16. Ivan Rodriguez, Astros: 44-7-352-10-.276
17. Matt Wieters, Orioles: ROOKIE
18. Dioner Navarro, Rays: 43-7-54-0-.295
19. Kurt Suzuki, A’s: 54-7-42-2-.279
20. Jeff Clement, Mariners: 17-5-23-0-.227

SHORT HOPS

Don’t be surprised if Martinez outperforms every catcher but McCann. ... Mauer is a great hitter, but has only 44 homers in 2,059 career at-bats and his back injury is enough of a concern to drop him below Soto and Doumit. ... In 714 career at-bats, Napoli has 46 homers and 125 RBI. ... If Posada regains his old form, he’s underrated at No. 7. ... If Martinez and Posada are healthy, there are seven productive catchers, followed by a big drop at No. 8. ... Beware of the high strikeout totals of Snyder (101 in 334 at-bats) and Shoppach (133 in 352). The latter will get a significant amount of time behind the plate for the Tribe, with Martinez shifting to first base and DH. ... I wouldn’t overrate the highly regarded Wieters, who has never batted in the big leagues. ... Saltalamacchia was overrated last season, then flopped. He could be a draft-day find as a backup.