Sleeper Watch

Shawn Wooten? We’re kidding, right? Actually, no – check to see which positions Wooten qualifies for in your league: if catcher is among them (he played 27 at dh, 25 at c and 21 at 1b last year), he could make a nice bargain late in the draft, especially if you’re in a league that starts two catchers. He’ll again play in at least half of Anaheim’s games, probably more (possibly filling in at third as well on occasion). There are certainly worse things that could befall your team than another year of .312 average from the catcher’s slot. He’ll have to be a bit more patient at the plate to reach that mark again, but .295 seems like a reasonable guess for 2002.

Update: So much for this sleeper. Shawn Wooten (DH/C/1B, Anaheim Angels) will miss around four months following on surgery on a separated joint in his thumb. The injury occured when Wooten fell while attempting to chase down a popup. Keep him in mind this summer; he may still make a nice free agent pick-up, but don’t bother drafting him now.