Fantasy baseball fans rejoice! It’s finally Opening Day!
By Ryan Roach
The Shallow
Jeremy Hermida – Outfield (RF)
Overcoming a plethora of injuries throughout his young professional career, Hermida appears healthy and primed for a big campaign.
While he didn’t quite tag the ball during spring to the likes of players like Josh Hamilton (Not many did!), he brought about rather consistent numbers – including pounding five exhibition long balls.
With the hype of a breakout long in the past, I expect this future star fish to unleash some numbers that should pole-vault him into the top 50 OF’s in fantasy baseball.
2009 Production Prediction: 25 HRs, 85 RBIs, a .290 AVG, with 90 Runs, and 8 SBs.
The Deep
Chris Ray – Relief Pitcher
Mr. Ray did not yield a run in his 13 spring appearances, which has all but put to rest any doubt about him being able to return to his old form.
After a year’s hiatus, the former closer will look to steal his old job back from George Sherrill (Straight Beak) in Oriole-land. A peek at the Birdland’s treacherous April 2009 Schedule shows Sherrill will have his work cut out for him!
In his pre-Tommy John life, Ray was successful in the role, converting 49 of 62 saves over the course of three seasons.
Look for him to bounce back with a vengeance in 2009 - making many fantasy owners regret totally forgetting his name on draft day!
We want to wish everyone who partakes in what should be an amazing 2009 season, best of luck this year! Don’t fret if things don’t always go as you planned! They seldom do when it comes to the wacky world of fantasy baseball! But take heed - WaiverSharks is ALWAYS here to help when you need some suggestions on who might be worthy of your waiver wire attention.
