Fantasy Baseball: Which Injured Players Should You Draft and Stash?

Matt Carpenter, INF, St. Louis Cardinals

Matt Carpenter is one of the most unique players in baseball, someone who can play virtually anywhere in the field with a knack for getting lots and lots of hits. This year, he's slated to be the team's everyday first baseman, but he is also fantasy eligible at second base and third base. He's a terrific fantasy option when healthy.

But there's the rub. Carpenter is currently dealing with back soreness that could reportedly keep him out of the Opening Day lineup. St. Louis Cardinals manager Mike Matheny said this week he was "worried" about Carpenter, and if the manager is worried, we should be, too.

Still, as of now, we project the lefty hitter to accumulate 601 plate appearances in 2018 and hit .254 with 23 bombs, 83 runs and 77 RBIs. He's currently the 22nd first baseman being taken in 12-team drafts, so the injury concerns are certainly something that has negatively affected his value. Back ailments are always tricky, and his injury timetable could push deeper into the regular season than originally thought. But at the 175th overall player, a lot of the risk is factored into his price.