Garret Anderson

Anderson showed signs of wearing down early in 2007, but he's played exceptionally well since the All-Star break of that year. His stats have been remarkably consistent the past few seasons with decent power and a batting average that helps fantasy teams despite taking few walks. He'll turn 37 next season, so the risk is to the downside despite that consistency.

Anderson experienced a small career revival following the All-Star break last season, hitting 13 home runs and recording 65 RBI. Numbers like that would make a younger player a breakout candidate, but Anderson is already 35 years old. Anderson will open the season as either the Angels' left fielder or designated hitter and could put up some decent power numbers early in the season, but be wary of taking him too high in the draft as his age and injury history are already catching up to him.

If you get enough at-bats in the middle of the lineup, you will pick up RBI. Anderson has 96 and 85 the past two seasons while being a below-average hitter--not just for a left fielder, but for any position. He's lost batting average and power, and should be in line to lose playing time in 2007, contract and experience notwithstanding.

Anderson returns as the main protection for Vlad Guerrero in the Angels order, unfortunately his skills are declining. His numbers dropped off significantly after the All-Star break, and his OPS declined for the second straight season. There have been whispers that Anderson's nagging injuries in 2004 and 2005 were much worse than let on by the Angels. The question is whether or not they will persist going forward. Watch his status carefully this spring.

Anderson's career flashed before his eyes in 2004 when chronic arthritis hobbled him for an extended period. The injury sapped his power and made fielding an impossibility. Thus, the veteran has strong bargain potential in 2005. If he's able to remain healthy, he should be able to post strong numbers across the board hitting behind Vlad Guerrero. Following the acquisition of Steve Finley, he'll move back to left field, which should preserve his durability.

You can't be the most underrated player in baseball forever. Anderson, 31, had yet another fine season in 2003, hitting .315 (.541 slugging) with 29 HR and 116 RBI. Anderson has been assembling a very Steve Garvey -esque career. He is mild-mannered and confident without being cocky. He should put up another respectable season in 2004, even if he can't take a walk to save his life.

Anderson had been a proven fantasy commodity offensively in his previous two seasons, but playing for the Angels kept him in virtual obscurity. A career-best .306 batting average, as well as a team-leading 29 homers and 123 RBI (tied a career high) made him one of the best fantasy sleepers last season. He has recorded at least 28 HR, 117 RBI and a .286 batting average in each his last three seasons, numbers that he should reach or surpass. In 2002, he also helped out in the doubles category, tying for the AL lead with 56. Injuries are rarely a problem as he has missed only seven games in the last three years.