Sleeper of the Week

It’s no secret that the New York Mets are looking to improve their shortstop position by replacing Rey Ordonez, whose often stellar defense doesn’t compensate for his troubles at the plate. While the Mets may be on the lookout for immediate help (possibly by going after Japanese stud Kazuo Matsui), their long-term solution will be Jose Reyes. Reyes practically defines the phrase ‘five-tool prospect.” He hits for average and shows occasional power, has good speed and a great glove.

Jose Reyes still needs time in the minors, especially to learn the strike zone and improve his patience at the plate. In terms of pure skill, however, he already ranks among the best shortsop prospects in the minors. Don’t expect him to make an immediate impact on any fantasy teams, but stashing him on your minor league roster might pay nice dividends over the long run.

Ordonez has always been one of those players who are far more valuable in the real game than in fantasy baseball; in recent years, his name has been synonymous with fantasy futility. Perhaps when Reyes takes over at Shea having the Mets’ starting shortstop on your fantasy team will be a strength rather than a weakness…