Let’s move over to second base, as our look at solid end-game picks continues. Don’t be afraid to take a chance on these guys:
RONNIE BELLIARD
Belliard is nothing special, and right now he doesn’t even have a starting job. He’s still a decent gamble in NL-only leagues, though.
It’s not hard to imagine Belliard landing plenty of playing time. The Nationals are starting Cristian Guzman at shortstop, but that might not last long due to Guzman’s bad shoulder and offensive ineptitude. If the Nationals stick Guzman on the bench at some point, Felipe Lopez will shift from second to short, opening up the second-base spot for Belliard.
Belliard has averaged 14 home runs over the last three years -- not too shabby for a cheap second baseman. He’ll provide plenty of value once he finds his way into the lineup.
ALBERTO CALLASPO
Callaspo is a backup in Arizona now, but if he winds up with some playing time, he’ll give you a HUGE profit on your $1 investment.
Why? Callaspo can steal bases, his batting eye is worthy of the O-Zone Hall of Fame (27/56 K/BB at Triple-A last year), and he’s still getting better at age 23. Great skill set, well worth a buck.
KEVIN FRANDSEN
Don’t forget about Frandsen on draft day. The Giants infield is ready for the nursing home, so there’s bound to be a spot or two or three where the 24-year-old can pick up some at-bats.
KAZ MATSUI
He’s been a bust for so long, it’s hard to have much hope. Nevertheless, Matsui can steal a few bases (10 last year in 70 games), and he should display some pop in Colorado’s thin air. He’s got the starting second base job all but wrapped up, too.
