There are some outstanding proven commodities at first base not to mention some potential bargains that could surprise. Let’s take a look at our top MLB fantasy first basemen.
Paul Goldschmidt – Arizona Diamondbacks
Goldschmidt has the potential to be a franchise player and Most Valuable Player candidate with the capability of 40 home runs. Goldschmidt is one of the top power threats in the game and should be refreshed after missing 53 games due to injury in 2014. At the age of 27, Goldschmidt should be coming into his prime with plenty of upside. While Goldschmidt is an obvious choice he is also the right choice as the top first base prospect in the game.
Edwin Encarnacion – Toronto Blue Jays
Encarnacion is one of the major reasons for hopes of an American League pennant in Toronto. What is most frightening for Blue Jays opponents is the fact that he clobbered 34 home runs with 98 runs batted in despite missing 33 games due to injury. The improved Toronto lineup adds to the theory that more is possible from Encarnacion if only he can stay healthy.
Miguel Cabrera – Detroit Tigers
Cabrera may have taken a step back last year but that does not take away from the fact that he is still one of the top prospects at first base and is coming off five consecutive years of 100 runs scored and 100 runs batted in. The one concern about Cabrera is a stress fracture in his ankle. Still a first round level player, Cabrera will reach 30 home runs and 100 runs batted in if he can stay healthy. His strong production last September in the stretch run further adds to his appeal.
Joey Votto – Cincinnati Reds
With injuries hampering Votto in two out of the past three seasons there is a sense that he could rebound strongly in 2015. Count us in on expecting a big year by Votto and a potential comeback season for the Reds. We will side with Votto being near the 25 home run mark with 100 RBI’s as one of the top potential bargains on the board.
Eric Hosmer – Kansas City Royals
Another potential bargain, Hosmer came into his own as a player and leader in the Royals American League pennant run last year. Hosmer had a .983 OPS in the playoffs with a post season slugging percentage of .544 to go with an one base percentage of .439. We expect this to be the breakout season that all have been waiting for with Hosmer.
