Editor’s Note: www.waiversharks.com The Oakland A’s Fox Trot Jake is already eligible at First Base, Third Base and the Outfield. Add to the fact that word out of the Athletics camp says Crazy like A's Fox showed up this spring with no less than eight baseball gloves – including a first basemen’s glove, and yes – even a catcher’s mitt! He's not about to unseat the talented Kurt Suzuki as the A’s primary backstop – but saying this Fantasy Baseball Swiss army knife couldn’t add the coveted ‘C’ eligibility to his repertoire during 2010 would be short sighted to say the least!

After a tremendous start in limited opportunity in the Windy City , this multi-tooled product of the University of Michigan slid down and lost some steam finishing the season with some ho-hum numbers.

However, if you were fortunate to have jumped on board early in the season, Fox provided some pop and didn’t dip below the .300 mark for good until August 23 in his somewhat limited Cubs use. However, Fox final line of .259-11-44 (along with the fact that he doesn’t walk much) many may wonder why we would even pay him any mind? Ah yes, making Jake Fox a true 2010 Fantasy Sleepers - unlike say Carlos Beltran...no offence Roto___.

Our optimistic side encourages all to take a deeper look at his 2009 season to understand that the raw power is in fact there. After popping 10 long balls in his first 160 AB’s, along with 39 of those 44 RBI’s, it’s more than clear that the final month and a half was nothing but forgettable for the 27-year old rookie.

With that being said a change of scenery may be just what the doctor ordered and a breakout type season could be on the cusp. www.waiversharks.com Fox could see close to regular at-bats, and may even be able to wrestle an everyday starting spot on what will more than likely be another edition of a lethargic Oakland offense.

We expect him to battle in spring training and make the roster more as a “toolsy” type bench player that will need to rise to the occasion when the opportunity permits itself. It’s hard to say a switch from Wrigley to the ol’ Oakland Coliseum will improve his power numbers; although, the extra space in the outfield may help his peripherals by allowing him to spread the ball around more. And so perhaps, finally - the former Chicago Cubs cast off will net some respect? Heck maybe a Jake Fox Bobblehead will even be in store in the near future?...Not so subtle hint to A's marketing and promotions department.

Add Jake Fox to a growing list of Beanies Babies who www.waiversharks.com is turning onto this pre-season or at the very least - add the A's Fox to your 2010 Fantasy Sleepers utility radar, and perhaps take a chance with one of your ever so fun final round (or two!) picks!

2010 Sleeper: Logan Morrison

Editor’s Note: Some websites have already rolled out their entire 2010 Sleeper suggestions before Manny even had his first controversial comment of spring, or Johnny Damon took the Tigers for a cool 8 million! We are taking a bit more patient approach to our 2010 Sleeper picks than in 2009. But as we fast approach the first crack of Spring Training game bats we promise to kick things up!

Last week we recommended Fantasy Managers take a closer look at one American and one National League sophomore - Orioles Nolan Reimold, and the Padres Kyle Blanks. This week we point our 2010 Sleeper compass needle towards those miserly Florida Marlins, where if your name doesn’t start with ‘Hanley’ – you ain’t gettin’ paid!

 Logan Morrison – First Base

With Gaby Sanchez currently holding onto the pre-season title of starting first baseman for the Fish, it’s hard to understand if Logan Morrison fits into the 2010 plans of the Marlins. Here at WaiverSharks.com, we’re going to be a bit mo’ savvy in suggesting that the leash on Sanchez may be tighter than even he may understand.

Rumor has it, ownership may be getting a little impatient with the lack of progress being shown by the 27-year old Sanchez and may be leaning towards a sooner as opposed to later approach in giving this 22-year old Kansas City the chance to take an everyday at-bat.

A patient bat allows Morrison to be more subjected to the long term plans (well…as long as they can be in Florida anyhow) making him an attractive middle of the line-up type.

While the smooth swinging left-handed hitter was projected to have more pop - it hasn’t exactly translated to this point of his development. Although it can be safely stated that he has become a much better hitter while plying his trade within the Marlins system. This is clearly indicated by his .411 OBP last season, and continued upward trending BA.

The touch of speed (9 SB’s in 79 GP) helps, as this is a nice compliment and make up point to the power number hit that you would take and is not always a part of typical big-time first sackers.

We’re well aware that 2010 may not yield breakthrough type numbers, but expect 2010 Sleeper Logan Morrison to be in the mix at various points of the season.

Dynasty and keeper leaguers take notes and have him on your short list, as he may be a steal for someone looking for a balanced corner infield position over the course of 2010’s 162 game schedule.

By Scott Woodall

Ahhh yes – Chicks do dig the long ball…and some even like Padres camoas well.

But with fewer and fewer post roid era sluggers coming up these days, 2010 Fantasy Baseball owners are forced to dig a little deeper to find their round trippers.

In 2009 the San Diego Padreswere treated to a nice “jug” of coffee from young Kyle Blanks before his season was prematurely halted by a foot injury. The 10 dingers in 148 abs even included a most fun to watch inside the park home run!

According to Wikipedia - at 6'6", 285 lbs. Kyle Blanks was the largest player in Major League Baseball history to achieve this!

Heading into 2010 - hopefully Blanks trainers will work diligently with Blanks tootsies, so the man some refer to as “Gigantor” will be able to extrapolate a full baseball season into an impressive line of sophomore stats. Maybe we should send them the link to our article: "Note to Kyle Blanks Trainers: Fit “Gigantor” with Freeway FitFlops!"
With A-Gone still not gone from San Diego, Blanks is blocked from perhaps a more appropriate first baseman’s job. But the big man showed surprising athletism patrolling left field at PETCO last year.

Lots of trade rumors have swirled involving Adrian Gonzales, and the consensus is A-gone could be heading elsewhere by trade deadline. But whether Kyle Blanks is the Padres future first baseman, or not – his stick will eventually do much of his talking -regardless of the position he takes on the field.

Now that Frank Thomas has officially retired – it’s time Major League Baseball fans be made aware of the NEXT BIG HURT. The 6’6” Blanks actually showed up to camp this season a leaner 270 pounds. (And no, it’ not ‘cause the Oscar Gamble afro imitation is now a thing of the past)

Although PETCO Field can sometimes play a dubious part in slimming down a Friars player’s offensive numbers, if Blanks 2009 shortened rookie season was an early indication this mammoth of a man is plenty strong enough to tame the PETCO beast.

Kyle Blanks is still a baby however at only 23 years of age – so we should expect some batting average risks that could approach Adam Dunn like lows if the K’s pile up too much, or if the vast outfield of PETCO begins to wear him down.

Having said that, Adrian Gonzales does still remain in the Pads line-up (for now) so expect the behemoth baseball player’s RBI opportunities to be available on many nights. A-gone may even help prevent “Blanks the Tank” from shooting blanks if he can pass along his keen batters eye, and tremendous, yet still some how underrated skills to the copious Padre star of the future.

Keeper League owners need to cross their fingers a bit when talking such lofty comparisons as the Phillies Ryan Howard – but rest assured Kyle Blanks won’t be able to hide from the Fantasy Baseball limelight much longer – camo uniform, or not!

FANTALYTICS – VOLUME 11

AN EARLYBIRDS PEAK AT FOUR OF BASEBALLS HOTTEST FIRST BASE PROSPECTS FOR 2010!!!

The Rangers Justin Smoak vs. Oakland A's Chris Carter vs. Cincinnati Reds Yonder Alonso vs. The Indians Matt LaPorta

As the season dies down and the fantasy playoff push is in full swing, most leagues trade deadlines have come and gone. The waiver wire is either shut down for the year or as thin as Alexei Ramirez after losing five pounds of water weight during a day/night doubleheader. We here at Waiversharks.com can only think of what the next season will bring and if I can be so frank as to say, we can’t wait for 2010 to come.

It isn’t due to anything other than pure geeked out excitement over the potential that the 2010 rookie crop has to offer and that we love to provide our readers with the early insight to get your mouth dripping with excitement, just like ours…

Dripping with anticipation as if you were sitting in front of a luscious Steak ‘n Shake Pepper Melt sandwich (sorry for the reference; however, I experienced this for the first time last week on a road trip through Ohio and can only pray that Canada can get their act together to bring this quality and cost-friendly burger joint north of the border…I digress) ready to pounce.

It’s hard to accept the end of another great fantasy season; so we don’t want to go down easy. Four heavy hitting first base prospects are under review in this edition of FANTALYTICS in which we will hopefully not let you down.

In honor of the recent cancer diagnosis of long-time Detroit Tiger radio play-by-play Hall of Famer Ernie Harwell, we are going with four guys that can easily earn the call, “That ball is loooooong gone”.

So dig in, get your pencils sharp, and by the way…wipe off the drool left on the table. It’s FANTALYTICS TIME!

Read the cases for Justin Smoak vs. Chris Carter vs. Yonder Alonso vs. Matt LaPorta on Fantalytics Now!

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The Deep

Ryan Roberts – 2B/3B/OF (LF)

A flaming hot August has allowed this tattooed wonder to thrust his name into fantasy significance.

With the dealing of Felipe Lopez opening up a nightly roster spot, Roberts has used his “toolsy” abilities and timely hitting to grab a large quantity of available at-bats. While getting the opportunity is one thing, it’s what the product of Fort Worth, Texas has done with the opportunity that has impressed fantasy guru’s world-wide. We pause a moment to note our friend sites: If you are interested in sports betting,  to make more money.

After going .352 with four homers and 12 RBI, (along with a .443 OBP & 1.004 OPS) for the month of August, Roberts is putting in a bid for consideration in making next year’s starting roster out of spring training. After minimal exposure through three seasons, (bouncing from Toronto to Texas to ‘Zona) the former 18th round pick finally seems to have found a home.

Still a deep option, Double-R has a touch of speed and the multi-position eligibility is always a blessing for weeks when you need to shift around due to roster expansion. The D-Backs offense has survived on hot bats all season, why should using this situation be considered anything different?

The DYNASTY

Brandon Allen – 1B (poss. OF)

This recently acquired bulky left-handed hitting former prep linebacker was once considered as the heir apparent to Paul Konerko in the Windy City .

Times change, and with that so does Kenny Williams plans as the future was dealt for the present to bring in some bullpen help in Chi-Town as this 23-year old prospect was dealt for Tony Pena. Since the deal, Allen accelerated his value and has worked his way up to getting a share of the first base duties since arriving in the desert.

Plugging away since the age of 18 in the White Sox system with limited success (.264-84-347 in over 2100 AB’s), the move to the Diamondbacks top affiliate in Reno of the Pacific Coast League has seemed to give him the fresh start that may have been the medicine needed.

Chad Tracy was rumored to be dealt all season long has been awful enough not to garner enough interest for a deal; however, with him not in the long term plans of the snakes, it’s probable that Allen is getting a taste of the everyday life in hopes that he will be prepared for a 2010 starting gig.

The former 5th rounder has worked on his eye at the dish, lowering his K totals to a respectable 1.7K/BB ratio and become a greater contact hitter. He has great extra-base power and could settle in as a 25+ HR type that could also swing for 40+ doubles with regularity. He’s got a great situation unfolding for him in the hot desert, keep him on the radar as 2010 could be his breakout.

By Scott Woodall

The Deep

Chris Davis - First base/Third Base

We suppose you knew Scott Feldman would have more value then Chris Davis going into 2009!? As I look back on another zany year of Fantasy Baseball I felt a fitting final recommendation on 2009 from yours truly would be the Rangers Chris Davis.

The Texas left hander has been one of the biggest let downs of the 2009 fantasy season (Guilty! We even had him picked for a bigger, better breakout year then our Canadian friend Joey Votto!) But, alas - with a month left of baseball, there is perhaps still hopes of redemption from the towering Texan.

Sure, maybe not to those of us who snapped him up in early rounds back in March drafts. (Uggg!) But to a wise owner who understands that forward thinking is often required in this game…if Crash Davis was fired to the wire when demoted earlier this summer, and still is available, it’s time for forgiveness grasshopper.

I won’t make any concrete predictions on what he’ll accomplish this September (fool me once…) but suffice to say that at this juncture of the season you won’t find better power potential lurking on any waiver wire.

Yep, I believe that despite Davis being the embodiment of failed hype in 2009…a sense of optimism should ALWAYS be in the back of one’s mind – particularly when it comes to young, healthy 6’4 sluggers who play baseball in a tremendous lineup in small, heat infested ballparks!

Those who refuse to take an occasional leap of faith in fantasy baseball – are often left with nothing to play for in the end. Provided Davis doesn’t windmill his way out of our hearts once again as he takes hold of the everyday first baseman’s job from here on out; the big man could reward gambling owners with some very sweet numbers down the stretch.

The Texas Rangers are still very much in the hunt for a AL Wild Card – and so Ron Washington will tread carefully if another Rob Deer impersonation rears it’s ugly head beyond Labor Day. But we reiterate, a better 1B/3B potential won’t be found at this point, so act swift if you’re like me, and you believe in second chances! Mark Reynolds owners are certainly glad they did!

The Dynasty

Eric Young Jr. – Second Base/OF (Soon)

I’ve been stalking Eric Young all season!

Okay, stalking is too creepy a word, but prior to Ben Zobrist attaining 2B eligibility, and a trade where I attained the speedy Chone Figgins I was starving for a 2B – and preferably one who could net some stolen bags.

I prayed the Rockies would call up Eric Young’s boy wonder Jr. Well, although he’s a tad late to the ball for my 2009 needs – I grabbed him in a keeper league anyways. Hopefully Clint Barmes, like former manager Clint Hurdle – will go away…far far away, so Eric Young can attain enough games to gain 2B eligibility in 2010.

His value for the remainder of this season is extremely difficult to predict. Certainly, the Dexter Fowler injury helped jump start his big league debut and Carlos Gonzalez poorly executed Ginsu knife demonstration has allowed us a sneak peek of the speedster – but playing time may still remain an issue this September.

If you still find yourself like I did back in early May…starving for steals, and Julio Borbon is gone – he may be worth the add, otherwise lets enjoy this Road Runners cup of coffee, and draft him in 2010 based on whether or not he cracks the starting lineup, plays second base, and is awarded the lead off spot in Colorado.

The Shallow

Carlos Guillen – 1B/3B/Outfield (LF)

Thankfully, hitting left-handed has always been the stronger suit for this aging Tiger, as an ailing shoulder will limit, if not end his days of switch-hitting, if only for the remainder of the season.

So after having much success, the multi-position eligible Guillen struggled out of the gates and has had injuries crawl up and suck the life out of his once prominent bat. So why then are we mentioning him here? Well, his versatility alone makes him a more valuable add in deep leagues, as he can shift into multiple positions upon a day off for an everyday bat.

Also, he is hitting slightly over .300 over the last month, while displaying a bit of power (4 HRs, 14 RBIs) while getting on base at a .383 clip. Not too shabby for a guy that many proclaimed his career was over after his struggles early on.

Another item that makes Guillen valuable, even with the addition of Aubrey Huff, is the fact that the Tigers could use as many bats as possible, especially left-handed bats.

Their offense is hit or miss and after going a big 0-16 with RISP on Sunday against the Royals, it’s apparent that they will continue to struggle if the hot hands don’t come around. Expect Guillen to compliment that surge as he will finish strong, salvaging something from the 2009 campaign.

By the way Tigers fans, September 13th is PAWS Bobbleheadday at Comerica Park! It’s the last Bobblehead Day of the year for the Detroit Tigers – and will be given out to ALL Kids 14 and under when the Tigers play host to the visiting Toronto Blue Jays.

The Deep

Justin Masterson – Starting Pitcher

Effective in a spot start, slash long reliever, Masterson finally has the opportunity to show his stuff in a starters’ role. While he seems to be on a pitch count, or at least has his innings pitched being watched like a hawk, this former 2nd round pick can look to throw his name into fantasy relevance in Cleveland where the re-build is obviously in full effect.

Blocked in development in Beantown, Cleveland will give Masterson the opportunity to develop into a top-end rotation arm, and while he faltered a bit, (alright, alright, he got hammered in Minnesota ) he should still be able to give fantasy owners a bit of what they need against favorable opposition.

This 24-year old has shown fairly decent control to this point, improving on his career 1.7K/BB ratio by upping to a more healthy 2.44 total. However, he did look nervous against the Twins, and while we all know how intimidating playing in the Metrodome can be, should he struggle with his control (5BB in 3.1 IP) a return to a bullpen role, at least for the remainder of the season, could be in order.

One way or the other, as a DEEP shark, Masterson is finally in the long term plans of a major league organization as a starting pitcher, so expect him to prove the rest of the way this season, where he will fall in the pecking order come 2010.

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By Adam Forsyth

Editors Note: Bud “The Spud” Norris may not follow the illustrious career path of former Astro Curt Schilling (Yep, he played there one year back in 1991) But at least unlike poor Mr. Schilling – he won’t ever be caught during a post game interview in such a “lovely and colorful” home jersey – well, unless the ‘Stros want to be cruel & host a retro uni night?

The Deep

Bud Norris – Starting Pitcher

While his minor league stats weren’t necessarily overwhelming, this sixth-rounder out of Cal Poly University shone in his first major league start by two-hitting a St. Louis Cardinals team that looked flustered with his every pitch. He racked up five big K’s, but also showed signs of nerves by giving four free passes as well.

If there is a knock on the kid, it would be his erratic side, indicated by a 3.7BB/9IP ratio through his four years of minor league seasoning. The benefit though, would be a K/IP that he maintained (9.6K/9IP) keeping an ideal 2.59K/BB ratio which makes his situation somewhat acceptable.

It appears that he is going to be given the opportunity to keep that rotation spot for the time being and with favorable match-ups in the near future (MIL, 2 vs. FLA, ARI) this hard-throwing righty may be a nice plus to those in need of some help in the back end of their rotation.

Deep leaguers feel free to toss him in there for the first half of August without concern, all the while watching his development and performance. Named after one of Americans favorite suds - it may be time to grab yourself an ice cold "Bud"

The Shallow

Nick Johnson – First Base

Chubby and now baring a goatee, what more do you need? This recently acquired jumbo fish has a few new reasons to add him to your fantasy roster.

Hitting in the top third of the Marlins line-up, in front of Hanley Ramirez and company, this lefty should continue to roll in what is turning out to be a very successful season that could get even better down the stretch now that he’s playing in games with meaning.

Opportunity to play every day; hence, fixing the Marlins line-up (allowing Jorge Cantu to return to the hot-corner and use speedster Emilio Benefacio in more of a utility role) Johnson will provide fantasy owners with a BA boost, and great OBP as well as run-driving abilities.

WaiverSharks editor Scott Woodall is convinced Nick Johnson had been moonlighting as Billy the Marlin for years.

Minus the power, this former third-round pick can assist in most stat categories. Not dominant, just a contribution. While his ownership has slowly crept its’ way up to 42 percent, many are still hesitant to add the pudgy producer, as he doesn’t suit the role of the prototypical “fantasy first baseman”.

To that, I say “nay” and should your roster allow it, an add may be in order, as his stats will slightly bulge the remainder of the season in Florida .

By Adam Forsyth

Today we bring you the 2009 fantasy baseball waiver wire equivalents of  the biggest hairy monster Muppet - “Sweetums”,  and the legendary, Uncle Miltie!

Yes Sir! A couple of Texas sized, walking tall gentlemen who are available for hire off many a waiver wire. These two giants in their own right,  just may give you the extra inches you need down the stretch. *heh heh*

The Shallow

Tommy Hunter – Starting Pitcher

Listed at 6-foot-3 and a generous 255 pounds, Tommy Hunter has been pitching very well in his six game stint with the Rangers rotation.

As a matter of fact the entire Rangers rotation (yes, even confirmed Swine Flu subject Vincente Padilla included) has been part of the reason that the Texas squad is playing with purpose into August.

Yet to give up more than three runs in a start, the portly righty has continued to impress the Rangers and has placed a temporary six-man rotation into effect, with Ron Washington requiring to make a decision sometime soon on how to move forward.

Though not overly gifted with a dazzling repertoire, nor a powerful pitcher, the former Frisco Rough Rider has controlled his way to effectiveness while handling some tough major league line-ups. With wins against Detroit , Tampa and Boston under his belt, Hunter hasn’t been wracked when placed into the fire. WaiverSharks has a soft spot for the big guys, so if you share our appreciation for cowboys who look like they could polish off a 72 oz steak at The Big Texan, don’t fear adding the Alabama native to the back end of your roster.

The Deep

Kyle Blanks – (1b/LF/RF)

“Gigantor”, as he is also affectionately known, has been slowly easing himself into better fantasy positioning with the increased playing time in the vast outfield at Petco Park . Don’t be afraid if you have yet to notice, with the exception of a measly four-percent ownership in YAHOO! Leagues, Blanks has hit safely five of his last seven games after bottoming out his BA at an embarrassing .160.

Fear not loyal Pads’ fans (HELLO…is there anybody there???) as Blanks is also adjusting to life in the OF as well. Drafted and groomed as a first baseman; the big 6-foot 6-inch, 285 pounder is also playing decent defense and has even recently amassed his first big league stolen base.

It’s rare to find such a big, athletic body; Blanks is definitely an intimidating presence at the dish as well as on the base paths. While he is still hitting a shade under the Mendoza line, he’s got power to burn, so expect an improvement for the remainder of the season as he gets more acquainted with the big league pitching. Keeper league and dynasty leaguers also take note, as his value is surely boosted by the exposure he is getting this season and moving forward for 2010 the potential 3-position eligibility is only considered a major plus.

By Adam Forsyth

The Shallow

Franklin Gutierrez – (LF/CF/RF)

“Hey it’s Franklin. Coming over to play!”

No longer able to be ignored, this former hot Cleveland Indians prospect has succeeded in Starbucks Central. The Tribe could certainly use the multi category contributions of this right-handed hitting Venezuelan these days couldn’t they? *Cue the collective sigh from thousands living in/near Ohio *

Already with double digit homeruns, only one short of his career high, the 26-year old looks as if he is comfortable hitting out of the five slot with the Seattle Mariners behind future Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr.

Gutierrez has a touch of speed (Seven steals thus far in 2009) and gets on base enough to score a legitimate amount of runs. It’s not a guarantee that he will continue to hit at the near .300 pace; however, if he is available and you need an OF spot filled with a player that has some upside, don’t be afraid to add “El Guti” to your squad.

The Deep

Garrett Jones – 1B/ (LF/RF)

What do you figure Vegas odds makers would have put on Garrett Jones (huh?) making a splash in 2009?

About 1000 to 1?

Garrett Jones fantasy value could end up being short lived; however, in mashing his way through AAA pitching this season, (.307-12-49 w/14 SB’s) this potential late bloomer may be given the remainder of the season to prove that he finally belongs in the bigs.

The eye-popping 8 home runs in 60 at bats is what should really attract anyone looking for a potential power bat off of the waiver wire.

Alright, I won’t go mentioning names like Chris Shelton or anything, as I realize that sometimes players are seeing the ball really well, and they just fly out of the park in bunches…

So, let’s enjoy the ride - but plan a possible slide. For Pirates fans sake, we hope it’s not a total freefall come August, as Jones is the best thing to happen to the Buccos in 2009, outside of the arrival of Andrew McCutchen.

Lets see if Mr. Jones continues to launch dingers at a Barry Bonds on steroids like pace…or settles down to a more normal Barry Bonds during his Pirates days pace from here on out.

The first four series of the second half the Pirates face off against some pretty tough arms, (SF twice, MIL and ARI) so we may get a better idea if we are witnessing a Ryan Ludwick fall from the sky, or are we being “Shelton Punched” yet again?