The Top Baseball Sleepers In 2013 For All Positions

The 2013 MLB season is fast approaching, with pitchers and catchers reporting to their clubs in a matter of weeks. There have been many exciting trades, and this season is surely going to be an interesting one. For those that play weekly fantasy sports on multiple fantasy sports websites here's the projections to help get you ahead. Salvador Perez, Catcher for Kansas City. He's out of the spotlight playing in KC but take him soon; his ability to rack up the power numbers quickly will make him a steal. Anthony Rizzo, 1^st Base for the Chicago Cubs. Rizzo is a big, strong kid that turned some heads last season who'll learn to add some lift to his swing in 2013.

Another name to watch for is 2^nd Baseman, Jason Kipnis of the Cleveland Indians. Extremely consistent low strikeout rate as well as the capability to hit a very solid .280 average every year. His pop isn't anything to overlook either (14 home runs in '12). Shortstop, Ian Desmond of the Washington Nationals should also get his due. Ian was a monster in 2012 and though there will probably be some kind of drop off, his projected 18 jacks, 70+ RBIs and 20+ SBs aren’t too shabby. Another infielder, 3^rd Baseman, Will Middlebrooks of the Boston Redsox has some big shoes to fill. Middlebrooks is replacing former fan favorite Kevin Youkilis. Fast hands and a short compact stroke allow him to drive the ball to left which is a huge asset to have at Fenway Park. I look for him to be in the 30 homer - 110 RBI range.

Onto the outfield now, where Left fielder, Norichika Aoki of the Milwaukee Brewers steals the show. One of the most underrated signings of 2012; Aoki doesn't strike out, hits for high average, steals bases and scores runs. What's not to like? Next up is Center fielder Ben Revere of the Phillies: Great pickup if he can consistently get on base. His speed is dangerous on the base paths, which should make him a guaranteed 35+ SB and 80+ run guy. And Jay Bruce of the Cincinnati reds rounds out the outfield. As good as he's been over the years, particularly in the power game; I still feel that he is overlooked. I don't see any reason why not to expect another 25+ HR and 90 RBI season especially with a healthy Joey Votto returning to aid his numbers.

Onto the pitching now, where starter Jeff Samardzija of the Cubs comes to mind. Breakout year for Jeff as he learns to control the walks; his high level gas will get him over 200 strikeouts. Then it’s Andrew Bailey, Boston’s closer. He's got too much talent not to bounce back this year for the Red Sox and regain some of the success he had in Oakland; hopefully the only way to go is up after a forgettable season. Lastly, Tim Collins from the Royals is a relief pitcher to look out for. Definitely underrated, Tim quietly racks up the strikeouts and innings in the Royals bullpen. He'll be a sneaky All-Star in 2013.