Thursday, March 28, 2013

Change of Scenery

By: Anthony Mulvihill

“This is a new year. A new beginning. And things will change.” ― Taylor Swift

Yup, I just used a Taylor Swift quote to start out a fantasy baseball article. What does Taylor Swift know about fantasy baseball? Well, maybe more than we think. In recent years we have seen many instances where a player has rejuvenated, thrived, or even saved their careers with a minor change in scenery. And now that I have captured my 13 year old female audience, lets take a look at how we can use her theory to help us win your league.

Jose Bautista made a minor alteration to his swing and led the league in HRs. AJ Burnett is a good example of how a change can help and hurt a player, from completely crashing and burning in New York and then saving his stock with a good season in small market Pittsburgh. Since it is impossible to find a constant trend when it comes to players switching teams, I have taken the liberty of breaking down the top 3 changes and how it should effect your rankings.

Justin and BJ Upton, Atlanta Braves - The brothers Upton were the topic of many conversations during this jam packed offseason. First, BJ signed an Atlanta franchise record for a free agent contract at 5 years, $75 million. Shortly after, Justin chose the Braves as one of the few teams he would waive his no trade clause for in order to play in the OF with his brother and Jason Heyward (Up, Up and JHey). There is surely something to be said about both players choosing to come to Atlanta and joining one of the most potent lineups in the National League. With both players scheduled to bat in the middle of the order, expect each to improve their RBI and HR totals of a year ago unless Andrelton Simmons struggles and BJ is moved to the leadoff spot, which will result in more runs and SBs. Either way, I see a major win-win for the Uptons and anyone who drafts them this spring.


RA Dickey, Toronto Blue Jays - Dickey has been a tremendous success story, going from career journeyman to Cy Young winner at the ripe young age of 38. Unfortunately, this is where the story takes a Vernon Wells-esque turn for the worse. The aging Dickey moves from the NL to the AL to one of the best hitters parks in the league and will be facing the lineups of a much stronger AL East division. In the words of fantasy analyst Taylor Swift, “It's hard to fight when the fight ain't fair.” Well there you have it folks, let somebody else overpay for his inevitable downfall.

Josh Hamilton, Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim - We all know how talented Josh Hamilton can be. Between injuries, addictions and relapses, its scary to think about how much potential Josh has wasted. Hamilton reported to camp in the best shape of his life, 25 pounds lighter and consuming less caffeine than usual. His new diet has led to a much cleaner lifestyle and will be key in maintaining his health throughout the course of the year. You are what you eat, which makes Josh fresh, healthy and...chicken? Hmmm...draft him safely in the first round and reap the benefits of a top 3 player.


Here are some other changes that will prove to be successful:
Jose Reyes, TOR - Batting at the top of the order for a very dangerous lineup
James Shields, KC - Workhorse with high K rate. Disclaimer: he is a much better second half pitcher.
Joel Hanrahan, BOS - Better team  = more save opportunities
Shin-Soo Choo, CIN - Moving to a hitters ballpark

Downgrade these offseason movers:
Zack Greinke, LAD - Injuries, inconsistency and social disorder... all bad for a big market team.
Melky Cabrera, TOR - Was nothing more than a 4th OF before PED scandal.
Michael Bourn, CLE - Speed has already begun to decline, leaving him with not much to work with.


By: Anthony Mulvihill