10 Spring Training Position Battles With Major Fantasy Baseball Implications

Milwaukee Brewers' Outfield and First Base

It's largely the same story with the Milwaukee Brewers' outfield. The only difference is that the costs tied to these guys are much steeper, making it a more difficult balancing act.

With Christian Yelich and Lorenzo Cain now in town, playing time just became a bit more shaky for Ryan Braun and Domingo Santana. The ripple effect may wind up harming the value of Eric Thames, as well.

The most obvious (and potentially quite likely) outcome could be a trade for Santana, who is entering his age-25 season and coming off of a monster season in which he posted a .278/.371/.505 slash. The Brewers still need pitching, and he can help fill that slot. But if Santana's still hanging around at the end of March, then we've got a problem.

Unfortunately, Santana's also the one with the most at risk. He's the 21st outfielder off the board while Braun is 27th and Thames is 47th (and 23rd at first base). Santana will play no matter what, but with all three jockeying for two spots, will he play enough to justify a fairly steep cost?

The Brewers should have a sick offense this year, and they play in a great park. We want exposure to their pieces. It's fine to invest in Santana because he can contribute both speed and power. But just know you're taking on some major risk by doing so.

And as for the others, it may be time to pump the brakes on Braun. He has offered to play first base, but he'd be on the short side of a platoon with Thames there, and Jesus Aguilar is no slouch as a hitter, either. Add on the injury risk, and the immense volume concerns around Braun make him a player whose stock may be too high until Santana gets dealt.