DOMONIC BROWN AND THE PREVIOUSLY HYPED ALL-STARS

With descriptions like “potential batting champion”, “unlimited upside” and “plus raw power” it is no wonder we expect the world from top minor league talent. Unfortunately, not every prospect who gets called up lights the majors on fire. In fact, RotoExpert Tom McFeeley puts into perspective just how rare the rookie seasons of Mike Trout and Bryce Harper were. Both players matched the hype and then some, but they also may go down as two of the best players of our generation. Most players need time to adjust, and major league teams do not always have the luxury of unlimited on-the-job training. As keeper and dynasty league owners, it is important to keep that in mind as you construct your team.

In any long-term league, you are making a significant commitment to players on your roster, especially young talent. You are invested in their careers because of their future potential and what they can do for your fantasy team for years to come. Owners tend to overvalue young players, particularly top prospects. When things do not go smoothly right out of the gate, they are the same owners that get frustrated. Doubts may start to creep into their head, making them think that perhaps this “can’t-miss prospect” may actually miss. That creates opportunity, one of the most important parts of success in any keeper or dynasty league. If another owner is not willing to be patient with a young player, chances are you may be able to acquire that talent for below market value in a keeper or dynasty league.

Carlos Gomez has long been a Fantasy tease. A former elite prospect, Gomez possesses electric speed and budding power potential.  He received a full complement of at-bats in 2008, hitting seven HRs and swiping 33 bags. It was a glimpse into his long-term upside, but it was just a tease. Since then, he has frustrated three major league clubs and countless Fantasy owners with his inconsistency at the plate. Then, almost out of nowhere, he broke out at age-26 with a career-high 19 HRs and 37 SBs. He will always be held back by mediocre plate discipline but Go-Go should remain a fantasy force as long as he can keep himself in the lineup