Brandon Allen: After a big power season in Triple-A, 25 HR in 371 AB, Allen is showing some pop during his September audition with the D’Backs, 1 HR and 3 doubles in 27 AB. His power and plate patience, 18% BB in Triple-A, look ready for the major leagues, but his contact skills, 74% Ct% in the minors and 10 K’s in 30 PA with the D’Backs, could be the one thing that holds him back. He turns 25 years of age in February, so his shot should come next year. If he does get a starting job in 2011, he projects as a power-hitter who could hurt a fantasy team in the BA category.
Matt Belisle: The 30-year-old Belisle has turned in a strong season in the Rockies pen, 7-5 with a 2.69 ERA in 87 innings, fully supported by outstanding skills, 8.9 K/9, 1.7 BB/9, and a 47% GB%. After failing as a SP with the Reds, the shorter appearances seem to agree with Belisle. With his skills in the bullpen, Belisle has the goods to be a closer if given the chance.
Melky Cabrera: It doesn’t look like the power is coming for the 26-year-old Cabrera, 4 HR, 26 doubles, 50% GB%, 7% HR/FB% in 439 AB. Without much power, you are left with a hitter who has a good approach at the plate, 8% BB% and an 86% Ct%, which gives him some BA upside next year, .255 BA and a .231 BHIP%. However he would need to run more, as he clearly has speed, 3 triples and 7 for 8 in SB, for him to have fantasy value in mixed leagues.
Ike Davis: It has been a good rookie season for Davis, 18/69/.262 with 31 doubles in 484 AB. Despite going homerless for the month of August, his power has held up well during the second-half of the year, 9 HR and 17 doubles in 247 AB. At just 23 years of age and with a 12% HR/FB%, as his body matures, we should see more growth from Davis, as he is a couple of seasons away from entering his power prime years. 30 HR for Davis next year is not an unrealistic goal.
John Ely: Despite a 4-8 and a 5.00 ERA, there is a lot to like about Ely’s debut season, 6.6 K/9 and a 46% GB%. If he can cut back on the walks, 3.1 BB/9, the 24-year-old Ely could be solid SP next year that you can get at a discount. Keep an eye on is walks during spring training.
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