Sleeper Watch

After spending the last nine seasons toiling in relative obscurity in the minors, Ryan Freel is beginning to catch the eye of fantasy owners. That’s what happens when you lead all players in stolen bases during spring training…

Yet as all veterans of this game know, Grapefruit and Cactus League numbers aren’t the most reliable indicator of success in the season to come. How good is Ryan Freel really?

There’s quite a bit to like about Freel, who was originally drafted by Toronto all the way back in 1995 and never stopped fighting to reach the big show. For one thing, it looks like he’ll be playing regularly, both spelling Ken Griffey, Jr. in the outfield and seeing time at the hot corner. Freel also saw action at second after being called up from Louisville last year, but hoping for 2B-eligibility this season is probably too much to ask for unless your league has rather low games played requirements.

In his 43 games with the Reds last season, Freel seemed to adjust well to big league pitching, hitting .285, a mark in line with his minor league career average. Patience at the plate is also a strong suit; his minor league K/BB ratio is a solid 0.85.

When it comes right down to it, howver, stolen bases will be the single most important factor which determines Freel’s value. He probably won’t hurt you with his average, and he may score a decent number of runs in Cincinnati’s lineup, but if you pick up Ryan Freel, you’re looking for steals. And so far, it looks like the green light he was given in spring training is still shining bright. If you could use an infusion of speed in your fantasy roster, Freel may well be the best option available; he’s worth a look in NL-only formats as well as mixed leagues with twelve or more teams.