American League hitter projections
Here’s a closer look at the top AL players at each position, with 2021 projections from BaseballHQ.com. The dollar values are based on maximum league size and should be used for comparison purposes, rather than specific bid limits. Players are listed at all positions at which they qualify (10-game minimum required for eligibility.)
Catcher
Is there an equivalent to the Hippocratic oath for drafting catchers? “First, do no harm” is excellent advice at a position where playing time is often limited and batting averages are usually low. Salvador Perez is the safest option for across-the-board production. Perez, Christian Vazquez and maybe Wilson Ramos might be the only AL catchers who aren’t batting average drains.
Otherwise, get power from Mitch Garver or Gary Sanchez and hope the rest of your roster can balance them out. Sleeper: Toronto rookie Alejandro Kirk.
Team
AB
HR
RBI
R
SB
AVG
$
Second base
Whit Merrifield is 32, but he’s still one of the most reliable sources of stolen bases. With the Royals’ improved offense, he could top 100 runs as well. Just ignore Jose Altuve’s .219 average last year; he was his old self in October, hitting as many home runs in the playoffs (5) as he did during the regular season.
Brandon Lowe and Cavan Biggio are both entering their age-26 seasons and just hitting their prime. Wild-card picks at the keystone are a pair of recent trade acquisitions who should get ample playing time in their new homes. Andres Gimenez won’t make Cleveland fans forget Francisco Lindor, but he has decent pop and excellent speed. Ty France has been one of this spring’s best hitters and should play every day in Seattle.
Name
Team
AB
HR
RBI
R
SB
AVG $