BATTERS: Early 2017 bench targets
Apr 2 2017
As is the case with starting pitchers, owners often overvalue Opening Day starting lineups. Guys who start the season on the bench often can be rostered at a nice discount. Especially those with hidden or emerging skills, since they are likely to carve out a full-time role once an opportunity arises.
In fact, José Ramírez (3B/LF, CLE) was on the CLE bench at this time last year before producing a $30 season.
Here are a bunch of bench bats whose values could increase as the season moves along.
AMERICAN LEAGUE
Chris Carter (1B, NYY) has become an after-thought after being dumped by MIL and being overshadowed by the fantastic spring of Greg Bird (1B, NYY). That said, Carter has proven elite power over multiple seasons, and Bird needs...
Almost!
You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!
Already a subscriber? Sign in here
More From Batters
Two of the best hitters in the AL Central, Maikel Garcia and Riley Greene, have had very different developments in their approaches to hitting in 2025.
Aug 5 2025 3:06am
Aug 5 2025 3:06am
Andrew Vaughn's resurgence with the Brewers in July came with strong underlying support.
Aug 4 2025 3:05am
Aug 4 2025 3:05am
Nick Kurtz's historical game earlier this week reinforced his significant second-half gains.
Jul 28 2025 3:10am
Jul 28 2025 3:10am
Drake Baldwin and Nick Kurtz are not only producing as rookies, they are moving into prime spots in the batting order.
Jul 25 2025 3:06am
Jul 25 2025 3:06am
José Fermín is one of several intriguing targets in deep leagues heading into the second half.
Jul 21 2025 3:05am
Jul 21 2025 3:05am
