Fantasy Baseball 2008 Third Base Sleepers

The corner infielder position has developed into the strongest and deepest fantasy baseball positions, and owners not able to wrap up a top first basemen can simply look across the diamond for their stud player. There are an incredible number of talented young batters at the third base position. Expect to get some nice power numbers and RBIs out of this position. Many of the players will also deliver a rock solid batting average, which should help your overall numbers rise.

Who are the top third basemen, and where should I draft my starter?

Think major talent when you think third base, as you have the Yankee's Alex Rodriguez leading the pack of available third base talent. Without a doubt, he is the best third baseman in the game, and some could even consider him the top player available. Just a notch below A-Rod, you have to love the Mets' David Wright, Detroit's Miguel Cabrera, and Milwaukee's Ryan Braun. All three of these players are young stars who will flourish in each of their respective cities.

Though the position is deep, wrapping up a top third baseman could be the key to winning your fantasy league. Get any of the top four, and you're well on your way. If you do not draft a sure-fire starter, pick up two or three quality third basemen for some nice production, especially if you have a utility spot available.

Who are the best values at third base for fantasy baseball owners this season?

Adrian Beltre, Seattle Mariners

Many owners underrate Adrian Beltre year after year, and he could be considered a fairly undervalued player this season. Here's my reasoning: the guy is about to hit his peak (he is 29), he has no fewer than 595 at bats in a season over the past four seasons, and swings a power bat, with 25 and 26 home runs in the previous two seasons. The knock on Beltre has always been his batting average: in the first to second half change last season, his batting average jumped an incredible 30 points.

If Beltre slips in your draft, he could be quite a value pick.

Hank Blalock, Texas Rangers

I've always been a big fan of Hank Blalock, and coming off an injury-plagued season, his value has never been lower. If you draft Blalock, know that you are taking on a great amount of risk that could turn a franchise-clinching profit. He could be the cog you need to win your fantasy baseball league in 2008. He swings a nice power bat and will hit for a decent batting average (look for something around .275). In last year's second half, he hit .312, with 5 home runs and 17 RBI, in a mere 64 at bats.

Once again, pick up Blalock late in your draft and see if you can get some good value out of him.

Other Third Base Values: Alex Gordon (Kansas City Royals), Josh Fields (Chicago White Sox), Akinori Iwamura (Tampa Bay Rays)