How High on Catchers?

[Smuckers]

I am in a 9 team AL-Only League. Each team is required to carry 2 Catchers. That means that 18 catchers from the American League need to be drafted. I have a couple of questions for everyone.

1. I already know that Mauer, Posada, Pierzynski, and Johjima are being protected. How high would you go for Catchers like Martinez and I-Rod. Right now one of my draft strategies is to spend 20-25 dollars on each of them. Is this the right move?

2. If spending that much on Catchers is wrong, who are the sleeper catchers I could get at a low price. Are there any catchers out there that have a good chance at producing a lot more than most of us think they will at this point? Right now I am intrigued by Mathis of the Angels. Should I target guys like him, and if so who are some others I should look for. What about J.R. House of Baltimore????

Thanks!

[CadensDad]

I'd say go for it on Victor he seems like a bargain if you have 2 catchers

[grammysboy]

Not knowing enough about your league, I might mention Mike Napoli of the Angels. He won't put up the numbers of Victor or I-Rod, but depending on your league, your $20-$25 price may not be enough. for those two. Napoli should go reasonably compared to those two front line back-stops. Jojima of Seattle might go overlooked as well. Either would give you adequate numbers at the position, though not spectacular. Just some thoughts

[Ender]

I'd take VMart in the 1st round in your league depending on who is being protected of course.

[Pedantic]

I wouldn't spend that much for a catcher. It's not going to be that shallow. Theoretically, only four teams will be stuck with a catcher that won't be starting. I would look for two bargain catchers rather than a spendy one and a crappy one. You could easily end up with a decent set of catchers on the cheap. Inflation could make getting a top catcher very unpleasant.

[The Jury]

First of all, do a little research and create some good catcher rankings!

Pudge is decent but the elite catchers are Mauer, Victor Martinez, and Brian McCann, and not necessarily in that order.

[sadlyajetsfan]

any love for kenji?

[George_Foreman]

I wouldn't spend more than $2 on any C in a league with that structure.

[Surfs up]

Thing is Pudge hit .300 and had 547 at bats and 8-10 steals last year. Kenji hit .290 and 16 hrs last year. These guys put up better numbers than many outfielders that cost more money.Why waste a spot if you can get two qality players? Fill a middle or shortstop spot a little cheaper or even a MR pitcher or two cheap to allow you to save some money for top catchers.In a small league no need to have any bums. Also don't forget Gerald Laird. Decent power and will steal a few bases.

[The Jury]

any love for kenji?

Apprently enough love to be protected by a team already