Fantasy Baseball 2008 Catcher Sleepers

The catcher position in fantasy baseball is often the most overlooked, for several reasons. First, there are only so many top catching options out there, as most catchers are not known for top notch batting skills. The top catchers in fantasy baseball in 2008 are expected to be the Dodgers' Russell Martin and the Indians' Victor Martinez.

Where should I draft my catcher?

In fantasy baseball, many owners believe that solidifying your catcher position early on in your draft is a strategic way to go. Most of the time, this is pretty solid thinking. However, fantasy baseball owners will inflate Martin's and Martinez's draft positions so much that they will not be worth the price you pay. For this reason, it is important to look for another option to fill the catcher position on your roster.

Who are the best values at catcher for fantasy baseball this season?

The catcher position is among the deepest positions in 2008, and the fantasy baseball owner simply needs to pick the right catcher for his/her needs. Speed is not common from catchers, so do not expect to receive many, if any, stolen bases from your backstop.

Joe Mauer, Minnesota Twins

Just one year ago, Joe Mauer was regarded as the best catcher in fantasy baseball, and for good reason. He is an absolutely incredible batter, as his contact skills are unparalleled by anyone else at the position. He has the ability to run, as well, and should be expected to steal anywhere between 6 and 15 stolen bases this season. Mauer possesses decent power, but his real value comes from his ability to get on base, as well as his prime position in the Minnesota lineup (currently projected to bat third). Mauer should be among the middle-tier of catchers drafted, but if his health holds up, he could end up being a fantastic value and a top-tier player.

Jarrod Saltalamacchia, Texas Rangers

If you are looking for a catcher who is not only able to fill up the stat sheet, but also the name box, you've found your backstop in Jarrod Saltalamacchia. Acquired in a mid-season trade for Mark Teixeira, Saltalamacchia hit an impressive 11 home runs in his short time in the majors.

Saltalamacchia has a decent batting eye and should put up a decent batting average. His ability to find at-bats in Texas is superb, and he should turn into a great power source for anyone who drafts him. Take a chance on "Salty" near the end of your draft, and watch the home runs roll in!

Other Catcher Values: Bengie Molina (SF), Ramon Hernandez (BAL), Paul Lo Duca (WAS)