7 Exceptional Underrated MLB Players to Draft for the Ultimate Fantasy Baseball Lineup

April 22, 2023 –

Howdy, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Z baseball buffs! Put on your rally caps and get ready for a wicked fantasy baseball draft season that will leave your pals green with envy. To help you flex your baseball knowledge and inject a bit of light-hearted flair into your league, we’ve handpicked a list of 7 underrated MLB players to draft this year. These unsung heroes are your secret weapons for a jaw-dropping lineup, so let’s crack open the treasure trove!

1. Joc Pederson – San Francisco Giants

Leading off our list of underrated MLB players is Joc Pederson, the ideal pick to turbocharge your fantasy baseball squad. Though his rollercoaster journey with the Dodgers may have left some folks with lingering doubts, this power-hitting machine consistently rakes in points for fantasy aficionados. So, go ahead and draft Joc, then sit back and watch him blossom into a priceless gem in your lineup.

2. Gio Urshela – Los Angeles Angels

Gio Urshela may not enjoy the limelight like some of his contemporaries, but he’s been a rock-solid performer for the Yankees in recent seasons. Armed with a trusty bat and Gold Glove-caliber defense at the hot corner, Urshela is a shrewd investment for your fantasy roster. And with the formidable Angels lineup providing support, expect his stats to skyrocket this season.

3. Brandon Crawford – San Francisco Giants

Brandon Crawford is the unsung hero of shortstops, maintaining a reputation as one of the premier offensive players in his position since 2016. Throw in his stellar defensive prowess, and you’ve got yourself a perfect pick to bolster your infield depth. Don’t let last season’s underwhelming performance deceive you; this MLB player deserves a spot on your radar.

4. Framber Valdez – Houston Astros

In the realm of underrated MLB hurlers, Framber Valdez is a name you’d be wise not to overlook. Despite a remarkable 2020 campaign, Valdez remains criminally underappreciated by many fantasy owners. With his devastating sinker-slider tandem, Valdez is primed to be the ace up your sleeve in your pitching rotation.

5. Andrew Benintendi – Chicago White Sox

While Andrew Benintendi might have endured a rough 2019 season, he rebounded with aplomb in 2020 and is raring to make a splash on your fantasy baseball team. Snagging Benintendi in the draft could be a masterstroke, as he’s poised to evolve into an indispensable asset in your lineup.

6. Shohei Ohtani – Los Angeles Angels

Shohei Ohtani is a bona fide MLB enigma, often criminally underrated by fantasy baseball pundits. This dual-threat sensation has the chops to excel both on the hill and in the batter’s box, flaunting a jaw-dropping 1.86 ERA with 149 punchouts and a .286 average with 18 big flies in 2020. Don’t sleep on this phenomenal talent.

7. Francisco Lindor – New York Mets

Ex-Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor tends to fly under the radar in fantasy baseball circles, but that’s a mistake you shouldn’t make. Boasting an admirable .288 career batting average and a slew of All-Star selections, Lindor has the makings of a rock-solid addition to any fantasy squad. Be sure to keep tabs on him during the draft.

To wrap things up, unearthing underrated MLB talent is the secret sauce to constructing a championship-caliber fantasy baseball team. Use our list as a launchpad, do your homework, and don’t forget to enjoy the thrill of piecing together your ultimate roster. Keep a close eye on those online casino betting odds, and remember, fortune favors the bold! So, go forth, happy drafting, and may the best team reign supreme!

But wait, there’s more! Just to make sure you’re truly prepared for your fantasy baseball draft, here are a few extra tips and strategies to help you dominate your league:

1. Stay Updated on Player News

To stay ahead of the curve, be sure to keep up with the latest MLB player news, including injuries, trades, and call-ups. Being well-informed will help you make savvy moves throughout the season, giving you the edge over your competition.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Take Risks

While it’s essential to draft reliable, proven players, don’t shy away from taking a gamble on potential breakout stars or bounce-back candidates. Sometimes, these high-risk, high-reward players can propel your team to unexpected heights.

3. Play the Matchups

When setting your lineup, be sure to consider the matchups your players will face each week. Look for favorable pitching matchups or hot streaks that could lead to increased production from your hitters.

4. Monitor the Waiver Wire

The waiver wire can be a goldmine of hidden gems during the season. Be vigilant in monitoring available players, as picking up the right free agent at the right time can make all the difference in your championship run.

5. Master the Art of Trading

Developing strong trading skills is crucial for long-term success in fantasy baseball. Always be on the lookout for opportunities to improve your team through trades, but remember to be fair and strategic in your negotiations. A well-timed, mutually beneficial trade can be the catalyst that propels your team to the top of the standings.

So, there you have it! With these tips and strategies in your arsenal, coupled with our list of underrated MLB players, you’re ready to crush your fantasy baseball draft and take your league by storm. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor!\

Related Article:

Top 5 Baseball’s Greatest Rivalries: A History of Intense Matchups