Here are our 2012 fantasy baseball sleepers at the shortstop position.

UPSIDE: The trade of Jesus Montero and retirement of Jorge Posada means that A-Rod and Jeter will be spending more time as DH, thus giving Eduardo Nunez more playing time in the Yankees infield.

1.  Dee Gordon, Los Angeles Dodgers — Stolen bases are over-rated in the fantasy game when compared to the real game of baseball.  And, Dee Gordon, son of ex-Major League reliever Flash Gordon, will light up the stolen base charts in 2012.  In just 224 at bats and 56 games last year, Gordon swiped 24 bases and was caught on 7 occasions.  If he plays in 156 games instead of 56 in 2012, that projects to 67 stolen bases and a possible league lead.  Coupled with a .304 average last year, Gordon, 23, offers exciting fantasy baseball potential for 2012.

2.  Zack Cozart, Cincinnati Reds — The 26-year-old Zack Cozart got the call to the Majors last year, but suffered two injuries.  He had Tommy John surgery on his non-throwing arm in August and had an ankle operation in September.  Since ’06, the Reds have paired 21 different shortstops with Brandon Phillips, but Dusty Baker thinks Cozart may be the keeper and he won’t get pushed a lot as Wilson Valdez and Paul Janish are behind him.  In the minors: 2010, 17 homers and 30 steals in 610 plate appearances; in 2011, 7 homers, 9 steals and a .310 average in only 350 plate appearances.  Cozart hit 2 dingers in just 37 at bats last year for the Reds so he can bring some power to your lineup.  We project Cozart at 15 homers, 20 stolen bases, and a .260 average for 2012.

3.  Eduardo Nunez, New York Yankees — It isn’t often that we have a guy on the sleeper list who is definitely going to be a back-up, but when you are the primary substitute for Cano, Jeter, and A-Rod, you have to think that you’ll get some time on the field.  Nunez did just that last year with the Yankees as he appeared in 112 games with a .265 average, 5 homers, 30 RBI, and an eye opening 22 stolen bases.  The trade of Jesus Montero means that A-Rod and Jeter will spend more time in the DH role, thus opening up an infield spot for Nunez.  Nunez in the infield with A-Rod as DH is a better option than Andruw Jones at DH.  If you think these aging superstars will spend some down time in 2012, Nunez is a solid sleeper pick.

TAYLOR MADE: Pastornicky goes right into the fire this year as the Braves starting shortstop.

4.  Taylor Pastornicky, Atlanta Braves — The Braves are not afraid to throw a young player with no experience into the fire and Taylor Pastornicky seems to be the Freddie Freeman of 2012 in Atlanta.  Pastornicky hit .314 with seven home runs and a .773 OPS in 117 combined games with Double-A Mississippi and Triple-A Gwinnett last year. He struck out just 45 times in 512 plate appearances so he’s going to put the ball in play.  At age 22, and with just 27 games at Triple-A, it would be logical that the Braves would rather see somebody else at SS in 2012 and keep Pastornicky down for another season, but at this point, Atlanta has not made any moves other than to pick up Jack Wilson to mentor Pastornicky.  This is one to watch in Spring Training.  If Pastornicky wins the job, anticipate a .250 season with 5 homeruns and 15 stolen bases.

5.  Mike Aviles, Boston Red Sox — Mike Aviles has been on our sleeper list before with the Royals.  He’s never racked up the kind of AB’s, however, that he will in Boston this season.  Aviles line last year in just 91 games and 286 AB’s, was .255/7/39/14.  Rookie Jose Iglesias, who hit just .235 at Pawtucket last year, is behind him.  If Aviles can put up 500 AB’s, he can have a line of .290/10/60/25 in 2012.

6.  Trevor Plouffe, Minnesota Twins — With the acquisition of Jamey Carroll to play shortstop, Trevor Plouffe is penciled in as the Twins primary DH for 2012, but having played 45 games at shortstop last year, he will qualify in all leagues as a shortstop.  We like the idea of a guy with DH power being listed as a shortstop.  Plouffe hit 8 homers in limited time last season (286 AB’s), but he added 15 homers in just 220 AB’s at Rochester.  Plouffe will likely be the primary DH in Minnesota and can end up with 15+ homeruns.  Get his pronunciation right at your draft:  “Ploof.”

7.  Jed Lowrie, Houston  Astros — Jed Lowrie moves to the Astros in the deal that sent Mark Melancon to Boston.  Lowrie doesn’t do anything really well fantasy baseball-wise, but he’s going to get a chance to play every day in Houston and that will up his 309 at bats he received in 2011.  Lowrie won’t hurt your team batting average at .260 and can pop 10 homers for you, but don’t expect him to help your stolen base totals.

8.  Emilio Bonifacio, Miami Marlins — Coming off of a 40 stolen base season, Bonifacio is not going to be a surprise to anybody.  But, if all you do to prepare for your draft is read those out of date magazines on the newstand, you may miss the fact that Bonifacio spent 67 games at shortstop.  He’s also eligible at third base and in the outfield, thus making Bonifacio a speed demon with speed for 2012.  Plus, its fun to say his name.

9.  Kyle Seager, Seattle Mariners — If 10 is your league’s magic number for position eligibility, Kyle Seager will be eligible as a shortstop this year for you.  That’s good, because the Brendan Ryan will be the Mariners’ starting shortstop with Seager moving to third base.  Seager hit .333 at Double-A and Triple-A last year and popped 7 homers while swiping 11.  In 53 games in the Bigs, he hit .258 with 3 homers and 3 steals.  Seager doesn’t have the power to pop many out of Safeco, but he has gap power and will hit doubles and help your team batting average.  He’s a solid late round pick in most leagues for 2012.

MILE HIGH POTENTIAL: Michael Cuddyer's eligibility at second base and his move to Colorado make the veteran a 2012 sleeper at second base.

Second base, along with catcher, is the position many managers look for when it comes to position scarcity, meaning that there’s less good ones available.  Hence, players like Ian Kinsler and Robinson Cano have increased value in your fantasy baseball draft.  But, if you have to draft a second baseman deep in the rounds, here are some guys they just may turn out to be keystone gems.

1.  Michael Cuddyer, Colorado Rockies — When most baseball fans think of Michael Cuddyer, they don’t think about a second baseman, but Cuddyer, depending on your league’s rules, may be just that.  Hence, his value in moving to hitter friendly Coors Field is increased even more.  In 2011, Cuddyer played first base and right field for the Twins, but he also appeared in 17 games at second base, not to mention pitching one inning.  That qualifies him as a keystoner in most leagues.  Cuddyer, 32, hit 32 homeruns for Minnesota in 2009.  He can match that total in Colorado this year.

2.  Jason Kipnis, Cleveland Indians — Kipnis was slowed by an oblique and a hamstring injury in his rookie season last year.  Kipnis, however, showed considerable promise last year in his time in Cleveland and is likely the overall most talked about second base sleeper for 2012.  The rookie second baseman hit .272 with 7 homers, 19 RBIs, 24 runs scored and five steals in just 36 games in his inaugural season.

3.  Jose Altuve, Houston  Astros — Jose Altuve was hitting .389 in the Minors when the Astros gave him the call to the show last year after Houston had abandoned all hopes.  Altuve hit .276 with a pair of homers, seven steals, 12 RBIs and 26 runs scored in 221 at-bats during his inaugural season.  We like the 7 stolen bases and think he’ll get his chances to steal on an Astros team that will struggle to score runs.  At 5′ 7″, Altuve doesn’t have the power to ever be considered an elite second baseman, but as a MIF guy, he won’t hurt your batting average and can give you 20 stolen bases.

4.  Alexi Casilla, Minnesota Twins — Alexi Casilla was on his way to his best season ever before a hamstring pull sidelined him in  August.  That was a big injury for Casilla in that his biggest contribution to your fantasy baseball team is his stolen base totals.  Casilla hit .260 with 15 stolen bases and just 2 homers in 323 AB’s last year.  Australian Luke Hughes, who has considerably more pop, will push Casilla for starting time at second base.

5.  Daniel Murphy, New York Mets — Daniel Murphy was on his way to a career year before a torn MCL ended his season in early August.  Murphy ended up hitting .320 with six homers, five steals, 49 RBIs and 49 runs scored in 391 at-bats.  Murphy missed the entire 2010 season so he remains an injury risk and while we don’t think he’ll be able to duplicate another .300 season, it’s nice to have a second baseman on your team who will actually help your team batting average.  Moving the fences in at Citi Field will also help Murphy exceed the 12 homers he hit in 2009.

ROYALTY: The future is bright for Johnny Giavotella

6.  Johnny Giovotella, Kansas City Royals — Johnny Giovatello, the Royal’s minor league hitter of the year, batted .338 in the minors with 34 doubles, nine homers and 72 RBIs. He blazed his way to Kansas City on Aug. 5 by hitting .391 in June and July and was named a Topps Triple-A all-star. For the Royals, in 178 at bats, he hit .247 while enduring some growing pains at the Big League level.  Giovotella projects to be a .270 hitter with 10 homers this year for the Royals.  He had 5 stolen bases in his short stint in the Bigs, but he’s not projected to be much more than a 10 stolen base guy while playing the entire season.

7.  Jemile Weeks, Oakland Athletics — Weeks put up big numbers in his rookie season, but given that he had only 406 AB’s, we listed him as a sleeper.  Weeks hit .303 with a pair of homers, 22 steals, 36 RBIs and 50 runs scored.  With his ability to get on base, the speedy youngster could exceed 30 steals next season.  He’s a fun player to watch.

8.  Dustin Ackley, Seattle Mariners — He came up with a lot of hype and proved that he belonged in the Majors in 2011.  Dustin Ackley hit .273 with six homers, six swipes, 36 RBIs and 29 runs scored in 333 at bats in his inaugural Major League season.  At age 23, fantasy owners can expect him to improve in both areas in the coming seasons.

9.  Omar Infante, Miami Marlins — Rather than test the free agent market, Omar Infante decided to stay in Miami.  Infante got off to a slow start in his first season with the Marlins but turned it on in the second half, hitting .314 with six long balls.  He won’t do much for your stolen base or power numbers, but if your league counts runs scored, the singles he hits and an improved Marlins lineup, could give you a lift.

10.  Brian Roberts, Baltimore Orioles — The veteran Brian Roberts, husband of 2011 Baseball’s Hottest Wife Diana Roberts (see photo gallery here), has been hampered by back and head injuries each of the past two seasons and appeared in just 39 games in 2011, never returning after sliding headfirst into the first-base bag at Boston in mid-May. If the O’s don’t have Roberts healthy at the start of next season, utility man Robert Andino and new acquisition Matt Antonelli figure to be the two top candidates to step in at second, but since the Orioles didn’t shop for a new keystoner in the off-season, we think Roberts will be back.  That being said, this is one to watch closely in Spring Training for Roberts has been a solid contributor, especially in the stolen base category in years past.

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The Leagues Best 2nd Baseman

The second base position is evolving. You have to be able to hit for power, average, you need a strong arm and you must have range. Who in the league has all those attributes??*(all based on the 2011 season and projection for 2012 season.)

1. Robinson Cano, New York Yankees

BRONX CHEER: Robinson Cano is baseball's best second baseman.

2011 Season: .302AVG/ 28HR/ 118RBI/ 104RUNS/ 8SB?Summary:

He has the sweetest swing in the major leagues right now, definitely, top 5 of all time. He knows how to hit and he has the smoothest fielding ability in the league. Why is he #1 over Kinsler? Not because he is a Yankee, everyone knows he would be just as good on any other team, but because he gets big hits and big RBIs in big games. He has a knack for getting on base an a knack for scoring runs. Definitely top 5 hitters in the league right now.?2012

Projection: .310AVG/ 25HR/ 110RBI/ 95RUNS/ 20SB

2. Ian Kinsler, Texas Rangers

2011 Season: .255AVG/ 32HR/ 77RBI/ 121RUNS/ 30SB?Summary:

Definitely the safest bet for second place. He is a very good fielder with a very strong arm. He’s got a good eye at the plate but seems to be in a pitchers count every at bat because of his aggressiveness. He’s got great power, more power than Cano, but still lacks the average. Great speed and seems like he scores every time he gets on base. Look for a strong season in 2012 because he might need to carry the team.?2012

Projection: .260AVG/ 28HR/ 90RBI/ 115RUNS/ 25SB

3. Dustin Pedroia, Boston Red Sox

2011 Season: .307AVG/ 21HR/ 91RBI/ 103RUNS/ 26SB

Summary: Five feet, nine inches. I bet you have heard that so many times, but it’s true. His small stature packs a pretty huge punch. A great fielder, a great player, a great hitter and a great teammate.?2012

Projection: .300AVG/ 18HR/ 87RBI/ 95RUNS/ 20SB

4. Brandon Phillips, Cincinnati Reds

2011 Season: .300AVG/ 18HR/ 82RBI/ 94RUNS/ 14SB

Summary: Multiple Gold Gloves, and many more to come. He’s got power to all fields and he flies around the bases. He’s got one of the funkiest stances I have ever seen, but it works. He’s got a passion for the game and a passion for playing hard. He is the leader of that team and he will let everyone knows what he thinks. He plays like Orlando Hudson, and being a big fan of Orlando makes me a big fan of this guy. Look for a big big year from Brandon.

2012 Projection: .310AVG/ 25HR/ 90RBI/ 100RUNS/ 27SB

5. Chase Utley, Philadelphia Phillies

JACKS: Chase Utley and wife Jen are very active supporters of the Pennsylvania ASPCA.

2011 Season: (103 Games) .259AVG/ 11HR/ 44RBI/ 54RUNS/ 14SB

Summary: You gotta love this guy. Utley is a professional, he is the definition of the term. He plays hard and he plays well whenever he gets in. Though I am a Mets fan, I do Respect this guy. You got to! He has earned it. Let’s hope he stays healthy in 2012. 

2012 Projection: (150 Games) .270AVG/ 28HR/ 86RBI/ 110RUNS/ 10SB

6. Neil Walker, Pittsburgh Pirates

2011 Season: .273AVG/ 12HR/ 83RBI/ 76RUNS/ 9SB

Summary: Simply put, he had a fantastic season last year. It was a very nice season to watch. He has got a great glove and the fans of Pittsburgh love that young nucleus they have growing. With players like Andrew McCutchen, James McDonald, Garrett Jones, and their closer Joel Hanrahan, look for above .500 seasons for the next few seasons.

2012 Projection: .280/ 19HR/ 86RBI/ 90RUNS/ 18SB

T7. Rickie Weeks, Milwaukee Brewers

2011 Season: (118 Games) .269AVG/ 20HR/ 49RBI/ 77RUNS/ 9SB

Summary: Hurt for part of last year, and really got nothing to work in the playoffs. He was 6 for 41 in the two playoff series against the Cardinals and the Diamondbacks. Definitely has raw power but the glove and the average need to get a tad it better. Look for the same type of season this year, and likely without Prince Fielder he will have a little bit more pressure on him to produce.

2012 Projection:(145 Games) .260AVG/ 25HR/ 80RBI/ 75RUNS/ 15SB

T7. Ben Zobrist, Tampa Bay Rays

2011 Season: .269AVG/ 20HR/ 91RBI/ 99RUNS/ 19SB

Summary: In my opinion, one of the most valuable players on any team in the league. He can play at every single position and he switch hits. He hits for power, average, he can field and he can throw. Definitely one of those players you want on your team.

2012 Projection: .280AVG/ 18HR/ 95RBI/ 106RUNS/ 27SB

8. Dan Uggla, Atlanta Braves

2011 Season: .233AVG/ 36HR/ 82RBI/ 88RUNS/ 1SB

Summary: If I made a list of the biggest arms in the league, He would be number 1. He has got so much raw power, but he really needs to get that average up and he needs to be better with the glove. He was under the Mendoza line for the beginning of last season. That rampage he went on brought a) the Braves to the playoff hunt, and b) his average up a lot. Though he ended the season at a .233 average, look for more quality at-bats and a higher average in 2012.

2012 Projection: .250AVG/ 28HR/ 86RBI/ 90RUNS/ 5SB

9. Howie Kendrick, Los Angeles Angels

2011 Season: .285AVG/ 18HR/ 63RBI/ 86RUNS/ 14SB

Summary: One of the most under-rated guys in the league. He goes out there and plays the game hard. In 2012 look for a big season because of the acquisition of Albert Pujols. In that entire lineup, Kendrick might benefit the most.

2012 Projection: .300AVG/ 20HR/ 70RBI/ 106RUNS/ 16SB

10. Danny Espinosa, Washington Nationals

2011 Season: .236AVG/ 21HR/ 66RBI/ 72RUNS/ 17SB

Summary: Plainly put, what an incredible rookie year. He got his name out there as a potentially great player. Though the average was low, he had big hits in big spots. Look for plenty more big hits and big home runs for many years to come.

2012 Projection: .250AVG/ 23HR/ 70RBI/ 82HR/ 12SB

BallparkBob reviews the fantasy baseball projections for Yu Darvish and posts him as the 15th best starting pitcher in your fantasy baseball draft in 2012. Bob also reviews his projections for 2012 fantasy baseball sleepers at the first base position.

SAFE: Paul Goldschmidt barely exceeded the at bats to be considered a Rookie of the Year candidate in 2012, but he's a safe sleeper bet to have a big year for the Diamondbacks.

1.  Ike Davis, New York Mets – Mets first baseman Ike Davis finished an injury plagued 2011 season with seven homers, 25 RBIs, 20 runs scored and .302 batting average in just 149 at bats.  That’s coming off of a rookie season in 2010 where he smacked 19 homers and 71 RBI.  Davis didn’t play after May 10 last year due to an ankle injury and then a series of unfortunate medical mistakes by his doctors.  The Mets are moving in the fences at Citi Field.  That can only help a 6′ 4″, 230 pound power hitter like Davis.

2.  Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks — Paul Goldschmidt was mashing in the minors with 30 homers in 108 games so the Diamondbacks brought him up earlier than anticipated.  Goldschmidt hit .250 in his inaugural season, with eight homers, four steals, 26 RBIs and 28 runs scored in 156 at-bats.  He’s a big strikeout guy, but can add some pop to your lineup.  He’ll be pushed by newly acquired Lyle Overbay.  Goldschmidt is projected by Bill James at .266/32/99/9.

3.  Mat Gamel, Milwaukee Brewers — Mat Gamel has been stuck behind Prince Fielder for 4 seasons and is tired of being labeled as a prospect.  His 2011 season in the minors should turn heads: .310/28/96/2.  The only rap against Gamel is himself.  He reported to camp last year 30 pounds overweight and his Triple-A manager Don Money said: ”He’s hard-headed. He doesn’t carry himself well. You have to carry yourself like a professional, and he doesn’t do it and I’ve said it to him.”

4.  Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs — Anthony Rizzo got in 93 games last year at Triple-A before getting the call to the Padres.  His minor league numbers were .331/26/101/7.  Rizzo really struggled in the Bigs, however, as he barely hit half his weight at .141 in 153 plate appearances.  It’s hard to imagine that the Padres would give up on him so quickly given his minor league numbers.  He’ll battle Brian LaHair for the first base job unless the Cubs decided to pick up a veteran like Pena or Trumbo.

5.  Mike Carp, Seattle Mariners — No, Carp is not going to start in front of Justin Smoak, but he does qualify at first base.  Carp finished the 2011 season with 12 homers, 46 RBIs, 27 runs scored and a .276 batting average in just 290 at-bats.  On a team that is desperate for offense, expect Carp to be a regular outfielder in 2012.

FISHING: Carp's 2012 statistics won't need exaggerating.

6.  Kendrys Morales, Los Angeles Angels — It’s hard to imagine a more freak injury than the one that Kendrys Morales suffered on May 29, 2010 when he suffered an injury while jumping on home plate after a walk off grand slam.  Morales finished fifth in the MVP voting in 2009 and would be the ideal hitter to offer protection for Albert Pujols if he can prove that he can play.  This is a must watch fantasy baseball situation for Spring Training as the Angels are loaded at the corner infield positions and at DH.  Morales, 28, was just signed to a one year deal that may pave the way for the Angels to trade Mark Trumbo or Bobby Abreu.

7.  Yonder Alonso, San Diego Padres — Jesus Guzman brings a .312 average in from last season so he’s the #1 guy to start the season, but we think Alonso will earn the starting role by mid-season given his bigger power potential.  Alonso hit 5 home runs in just 88 at bats last year.  He was acquired from the Reds in the Mat Latos deal and should pick up 60% of the first base at bats in 2012.  That should put the Havana-born big man at a .275 average and 15 homers, even in spacious Petco.

8.  Adam LaRoche, Washington Nationals — Adam LaRoche suffered both a torn labrum and a torn rotator cuff in 2011 that limited him to just 151 at bats.  This is a guy, however, who is only 32 and hit exactly 25 homers for three consecutive seasons with the Diamondbacks and Pirates from 2008-2010.  And, with backup Chris Marrero on the shelf with an injury suffered while playing winter ball, the job is all LaRoche’s.  Manager Davey Johnson said that LaRoche is “100% now.”

9.  Adam Dunn, Chicago White Sox — I can’t recall a regular player who had a higher strike out total than batting average.  Dunn had 177 strikeouts while hitting .159 with 11 homers, 42 RBIs and 36 runs scored.  He can’t possibly be that bad again in 2012, can he?

10.  Brandon Belt, San Francisco Giants — Yes, Belt was on our sleeper list as well last year, but things didn’t quite work out for Belt who started the season as the starter, then got demoted.  His replacement, Aubrey Huff, was not able to duplicate his 2010 season, however, thus opening the door again for Belt.  Belt struggled to hit for average throughout the season but flashed some power, hitting seven homers after August 1.  Perhaps that’s an indication of his 2012 potential.

11.  Brandon Allen, Oakland Athletics — The Athletics got frustrated with Daric Barton’s lack of power last year (0 homers) and sent him to the minors.  Brandon Allen has home run power capable of 20 in 2012, but the big man will likely punish your team batting average; he’s a lifetime .210 hitter.

12.  Lucas Duda, New York Mets — Lucas Duda will be an outfielder this year for the Mets, but he’s qualified at first base as well.  Duda hit .292 with 10 homers, one base swipe, 50 RBIs and 38 runs scored in 301 at-bats during the 2011 season and is another one that should benefit from moving the outfield fences in at Citi Field.

13.  Brett Wallace, Houston Astros — I’m guessing that 35-year-old Carlos Lee doesn’t fit with the Astros youth movement.  That could open the door for Brett Wallace to earn the starting job in Houston.  The big problem is that Wallace is not a good fielder, but if you play in a keeper league, Wallace is a strong consideration since he can move to DH in 2013.

Did Prince Fielder make a New Year's Resolution to lose weight?

Whether you run a major league franchise or a fantasy baseball team, Prince Fielder represents a risk to your team’s long term success. There has been much ado in the sports media recently about Prince Fielder perhaps joining a new team (or re-signing with his old club) as a free agent for the 2012 season. Armed with a professional athlete’s ego and uber-agent Scott Boras in tow, Fielder has made it clear he is looking for a long-term contract. Upon first glance, this looks like a no-brainer. He is a 27-year old slugger coming off a season which saw him hit 38 HR (good for 2nd in the National League) and 120 RBI (also 2nd in the N.L.). Based upon his age and his stats alone, Fielder looks like the kind of player that a major league team (or fantasy baseball owner) would fight tooth-and-nail to place on their roster. However, that might not be the wisest of moves.

Fielder has been remarkably consistent over his career. He has played in 157, 158, 159, 162, 161 and 162 games since 2006. Consistency like that is pretty rare this side of Cal Ripken, Jr. However, past consistency is only one aspect to consider when evaluating a player’s potential. Heading into the 2011 season, fantasy baseball owners were electrified with the prospect of owning a certain player coming off a run of steady home run totals from 2005 through 2010. This particular slugger’s home run totals through that time frame read as follows: 40, 40, 40, 40, 38, 38. You would be hard pressed to beat consistency such as this. This player was sure to deliver another clockwork season of offensive production, right? Not if you drafted Adam Dunn, who both boasted those aforementioned HR totals as well as one of the worst offensive seasons in history in 2011.

Fielder has also been remarkably durable for a big man. He has only missed a total of 13 games since the start of the 2006 season. However, this doesn’t mean he is a viable option for the next decade, and no mistake about it, Fielder will be looking for a contract that runs approximately 10 years. Big bodies tend to break down faster than their slimmer counterparts. One needs to look no further than the career declines experienced by players such as Mo Vaughn, Kent Hrbek or his father, Cecil Fielder for proof of this. The question is not whether he has been durable in the past. He has. The question is how durable he will continue to be as his large frame endures the constant wear and tear of lumbering through 6 full major league seasons.

Another issue that affects his on-field major league team but not the majority of fantasy leagues is the issue of his defense. His last name may be “Fielder” but this is not reflective in his defensive play. His UZR has been a negative statistic in 5 of his 6 full seasons with 2 seasons (2006 and 2008) almost reaching double digits (-9.4 and -9.2, respectively). Although most fantasy leagues do not consider defensive metrics in their scoring systems, it is something to consider when evaluating the overall strengths and weaknesses of a baseball player.

Although his short-term prospects for success look promising, if you have an eye for the future (especially in dynasty fantasy baseball leagues), this Prince may end up performing more like a Court Jester before his contract expires.

SALE: Padres Latos jerseys are now half off.

Well, Latos leaves a Padres team that has struggled to score runs to a Cincinnati team that has considerably more pop.  According to Park Factors at ESPN, Petco was the 28th friendliest ballpark to score runs.  In fact, in its 8 years of existance, Petco has been in the top 5 of pitchers’ parks.

Latos has enjoyed pitching at Petco as much as the other guy.  In 2011, Latos was 5-7/3.24/1.15 at home and 4-7/3.68/1.22 on the road.  In 2010, Latos’ ERA was 2.59 at home and 3.14 on the road.

He won’t benefit from cavernous Petco in 2012, however.  Petco, remember, has a 400 feet deep right-center and measures 382 feet to right field. Great American, by comparison, measures 370 to right-center and 325 to right field, substantially smaller dimensions.

2012 Fantasy Baseball Projection: Mat Latos — Mat Latos will likely see some drop off in his ERA and WHIP with the move to Cincinnati, just as any pitcher would when leaving Petco.  He should, however, benefit from the Reds’ stronger hitting: Cincinnati was 7th in runs scored last year versus San Diego’s 28th.  As a high strikeout pitcher, the effect of the ballpark move will be lessened.  We project Latos to win 15 games with the Reds while sporting a 3.60 ERA and 1.25 WHIP, thus with a fantasy baseball value that is neutral versus 2011.

Yonder Alonso: Slugger Gets His Chance

Acquired in the multi-player deal for the Padres is first baseman Yonder Alonso who was born in Cuba.  Alonso was blocked at first base by Joey Votto and will now get his chance to play in San Diego.

The Reds gave up a lot to get the 24-year-old Latos from San Diego.  Yonder Alonso, Yasmani Grandal, Edinson Volquez and Brad Boxberger were all sent to sunny San Diego. You don’t give away a 24-year-old front line starter without getting a lot in return.  And, Yonder Alonso is the biggest piece of the trade.

Alonso was the 8th overall pick in the 2008 draft.  And, he looked great in his late season call-up last year before a foul ball off his foot on September 19 move him permanently into a pinch hitting role.  In 47 games, Alonso hit .330 and had 5 home runs and 15 RBI in just 88 at bats.  Coupled with some strong minor league stats, Alonso will be a consideration for San Diego in 2012.

He will battle Jesus Guzman for the first base job, but at this point, you’d have to think that Guzman is the favorite based on his solid .307/5/44/9 numbers of last season.  The Padres are actually stacked at the first base position with Kyle Blanks and Anthony Rizzo as well so perhaps Alonso could make the move to the outfield.

2012 Fantasy Baseball Projection: Yonder Alonso — It’s too early to know what Alonso’s role with the Padres will be in 2012.  We are taking a wait and see approach to Alonso, but if he earns even a part-time starting role, Yonder Alonso could be a solid sleeper for the 2012 season.

WILD BLUE YONDER: Alonso may slot into the Padres lineup.

SOX SWAP: Jed Lowrie and Mark Melancon swap laundry.

The Houston Astros and Boston Red Sox made a trade last week that sent Astros’ closer Mark Melancon to the Red Sox in exchange for infielder Jed Lowrie and Kyle Weiland.

Who Will Nab Red Sox Closer Role?

Mark Melancon had 20 saves for Houston this year, going 8-4 with a 2.78 ERA and 1.22 WHIP in 71 relief outings during his first full major league season.  He was the Astros closer for the final five months of the season.  Melancon is not your typical high heat closer as his best pitch is his curve ball.

It remains to be seen as to where Melancon fits in the Boston plans.  He could be a setup man or he could be an insurance policy if the Sox don’t pick up the A’s Andrew Bailey in a trade or sign free agent Ryan Madson from the Phillies.  If Madson signs with the Red Sox, it will simply be a closer swap between Philadelphia and Boston as Jonathan Papelbon is now in that role with the Phillies.  Depending on what happens with the closer role, the Red Sox may choose to move Daniel Bard into a starting role.

If Melancon is going to be the closer, Red Sox GM Ben Cherrington is certainly not letting on.  “We believe he’s definitely capable of closing and capable of pitching in the ninth inning for us,” Cherington said. “But those are questions for Bobby [Valentine], with help from his pitching coach, during spring training to answer and figure out the right roles for everyone.”

Fantasy Baseball Projection 2012: Mark Melancon — Obviously, Melancon’s value depends on whether he is indeed going to be the closer in Boston or not.  Set up guys get no respect in fantasy baseball so we’ll wait and see what Melancon’s ultimate value is.

Jed Lowrie – Sleeper Pick for 2012

HIGH FIVE: Jed Lowrie is our first fantasy baseball sleeper for 2012.

Lowrie, 27, has been plagued with a series of injuries that have put him on the DL at least once over each of the last three seasons.  A healthy Lowrie that is given the chance to play every day in 2012 would make him a solid infield sleeper product, especially since Lowrie played all four infield positions last year.

He’s a switch hitter, but does not hit well from the left side.  Over the past three years, he’s at .209 versus righties and .322 versus lefties.  Makes you wonder if he should be going both ways at all.

“For me it’s about playing, and that’s always what I’ve wanted,” Lowrie said. “Hopefully, I get that opportunity in Houston.”

On a team that is struggling for veteran leadership, the career .252 hitter Lowrie will likely get that chance.

Fantasy Baseball Projection 2012: Jed Lowrie — Jed Lowrie could have a breakout year in 2012.  For a young guy, he’s had his share of injuries already.  He’ll be given the chance to play every day in Houston for the first time in his career and will be tutored on how to hit better from the port side.  Lowrie is our first sleeper named for the 2012 season.  With less pressure to produce in Houston, we think Lowrie will be a .265 hitter with 12 home runs.  He’s not much a base stealing threat at all, but his ability to play all four infield positions make him a late round pick in deep mixed leagues or National League only leagues.

Kyle Weiland Role with Astros

Kyle Weiland appears to be the throw-in to the deal.  Weiland spent most of last year in the minors, but did get called up and got shelled to the tune of a 03 record and 7.66 ERA.  He will be given a chance to earn a spot in the Astros’ starting rotation for 2012.

Fantasy Baseball Projection 2012: Kyle Weiland — Kyle Weiland is currently a long shot to participate on any fantasy baseball roster for 2012.

Astros Closer Role

With Melancon gone, the Astros do not have a clear cut closer for the 2012 season.  Brandon Lyon was their guy, but lost the job in May after an injury and struggling mightily.  Lyon has experience as a closer, but he’ll be in the last year of his contract in 2012 so it would likely follow the formula that any coveted experienced player would be traded for stockpiling two young players in return as the Astros did in this deal.

The closer role for Houston last year was nothing short of a disaster.  The Astros had 25 blown saves, third largest in the MLB, in 50 games!

If Lyon is not the guy or he is dealt for prospects, Wilton Lopez is a guy who could step into that role for 2012.  Another possibility is converted catcher, David Carpenter who can hit 95 MPH.

Another possibility is right-hander Juan Abreu, acquired from the Braves in last summer’s Michael Bourn trade.  He struck out 12 batters in 6 2/3 innings in his Major League debut last season and has been clocked at 99 MPH.

A final possibility is hard-throwing Rhiner Cruz who was acquired in the Rule 5 Draft earlier this month. He hit 98 mph last spring, but has struggled to control his pitches. He walked 39 batters and struck out 51 in 58 2/3 innings last year at Double-A Binghamton for the Mets.

Fantasy Baseball Projection 2012:  Brandon Lyon — It’s a wait and see game for Brandon Lyon as the Astros’ closer.  It is likely that Lyon will open the season as the Astros closer, but be dealt by June.

Fantasy Baseball Dugout takes a look at the winners and losers thus far in the 2011 free agent market.  Which players will perform better in their new homes and which players will struggle.  We take a look.

Philly Phans will love Papelbon's energy on the mound.

Albert Pujols:  Cardinals –> Angels  Value: Slightly Up

With the PED charge looming against Ryan Braun, Albert Pujols at age 32 just may be the #1 pick again in the 2012 fantasy baseball draft.  Pujols has fared well in his career as both a DH (.360) and against the American League (.348) so we don’t expect any decline.  The only slight concern is that Pujols is coming off of his worst season ever, although worst season for Albert Pujols means .299/37/99/9.  By being fully healthy and able to take a day off as the DH occasionally, Pujols’ hitting should improve over his 2011 season.

Joe Nathan: Twins –> Rangers  Value: Up

No matter where Joe Nathan went, his value over his 2010 and 2011 seasons was bound to be up.  That’s because Nathan spent all of 2010 on the shelf after having Tommy John surgery and he sat out most of the 2011 season.  Nathan was baseball’s save leader from 2004 through 2009 and had a combined 1.87 ERA which was better than Mariano Rivera’s 1.90.  Nathan, age 37, is healthy for 2012 and he’s on a great team, but you have to question his durability given the past two seasons so that will cause his fantasy value to drop despite being the closer on the team that has been to two consecutive World Series.

Jonathan Papelbon:  Red Sox –> Phillies  Fantasy Value: Neutral

Jonathan Papelbon moves from one very good team to another.  He’ll surely get his share of saves in Philadelphia, at least on the days that Roy Halladay doesn’t pitch.  Papelbon has blown just 14 saves in the past 3 seasons in Boston, despite struggling a bit in the 2010 season when many fans were calling for fireballing Daniel Bard to take his spot.  There won’t be such competition in Philadelphia where his job is secure with set up men Daniel Bastardo and Jose Contreras.

More Homeruns are in the cards for Cuddyer in 2012.

Heath Bell: Padres –> Marlins  Fantasy Value: Neutral

Heath Bell is the clear closer in Miami now that Leo Nunez’s true identity has been discovered as Juan Carlos Oviedo.  Nunez, or Oviedo, is currently on the restricted list from MLB, thus giving Bell the clear access to the closer position.  Over the past three years, Bell’s 132 have been as consistent as a warm San Diego day.  Bell is moving from one of the best pitcher’s parks in the Majors to another pitchers’ park in Miami.  He will have another 40+ save season for the new look Marlins.

Jose Reyes: Mets –> Marlins  Fantasy Value: Neutral to Up

A 6 year, $106 million contract lured Reyes to Miami.  Reyes is coming off of a great 2011 season in which he put up some big numbers, despite missing 36 games.  He will be moving to the leadoff spot with a revived Hanley Ramirez in the 3 hole and Mike Stanton hitting cleanup.  If your league counts runs scored, Reyes value is up.

Huston Street: Rockies –> Padres  Fantasy Value: Up

Anytime an already good pitcher can move from Coors Field to Petco Park, you have to think that his value is going up, way up.  Coors Field was #1 in runs scored in 2011 and Petco Park was # 28.  Pitchers’ ERA’s at Coors was 4.89 and at Petco it was 2.91.  As for Street, he was 5.59/1.41 at Coors and 2.51/1.02 on the road.  I have a feelign Street is happy to be in San Diego.

Mark Buehrle: White Sox –> Marlins  Fantasy Value: Up

Mark Buehrle has pitched a perfect game and a no hitter in his career.  He’s also started an all-star game.  That being said, he’s never had an ERA below 3.00 in his 12 seasons with the White Sox.  Buehrle has all the makings of improved stats in 2012.  First of all, he moves from the park that is easiest in the league to hit a homerun, US Cellular Field, to the new Marlins Ballpark.  Second, he moves to the National League where ERA’s are always improved.  Third, his history shows a lifetime 3.32 ERA in inter-league play and a 24-6 record against the NL.  That compares to 3.89 and 137-113 against AL opponents.  In the past 7 seasons, Buehrle is 16-2 and 2.29 against the National League in 25 starts.

Josh Willingham:  A’s –> Twins  Fantasy Value: Down

Willingham is coming off a great year with Oakland in 2011 where he set career marks in homeruns (29), RBI (98), and runs (69).  Willingham has hit in pitchers’ parks for his entire career with Oakland, Washington, and Florida so he’s no stranger to hitting in the caverns of Target Field.  Willingham has never hit for much of an average and he strikes out a lot.  Don’t expect that to change, but we don’t see Willingham being able to match those 29 home runs in Minnesota.

C.J. Wilson: Rangers –> Angels  Fantasy Value: Up

Wilson is the biggest signing of the year not named Albert.  He’ll join Dan Haren and Jared Weaver on a starting pitching staff rivaled only by the Phillies.  A move from Texas to Los Angeles has got to help Wilson’s numbers.  He leaves the #1 hitters park according to Park Factor and moves to the #27 hitters park.  According to Baseball Reference, he leaves a home run index of 111 to 93 in Los Angeles.  Wilson loved pitching on the road where he’d been 2.56/1.18 versus 3.70/1.25 at home in Texas.

Aramis Ramirez: Cubs –> Brewers  Fantasy Value: Down

Ramirez joins a Brewers team that is likely going to be without Prince Fielder and Ryan Braun.  That won’t help Ramirez’s protection in the lineup.  Aramis Ramirez had a solid 2011 season at .306/26/93/1.  Ramirez liked Wrigley.  He won’t fare as well in Milwaukee in 2012 although the Brewers will like him a lot more than Casey McGehee.

Michael Cuddyer: Twins –> Rockies  Fantasy Value: Up Considerably

Every fantasy baseball manager should wish that his players moved to Colorado.  Cuddyer has always been a solid player but playing in Target Field kept him to being ranked as the 95th best fantasy player last year by ESPN.  He’ll like hitting in Colorado where he should surpass his 29 homerun season of 2009.  At Coors Field, 10.7% of all fly balls leave the park; in Target, it’s only 7.6%.  One of the added values of Cuddyer is that he actually qualifies as a second baseman having played 17 games at second in 2011.  That should help his draft position dramatically.  He’ll likely hit between Tulowitzki and Helton and is capable of a .300 season with 30+ home runs in Colorado.