Top 5 Overall San Diego Padres - Insider Fantasy Baseball Draft Guide 2009

Hidden out on the west coast where people don't get to see them too often on television, the San Diego Padres have some key players that could make the difference for your fantasy baseball team this season. Here is a look at the top five fantasy baseball players on the Padres this season.

1. Jake Peavy

2. Adrian Gonzalez

3. Kevin Kouzmanoff

4. Heath Bell

5. Edgar Gonzalez

#1 Overall San Diego Padre: Jake Peavy, Starting Pitcher

Peavy is a perfect example of why Win-Loss record is a meaningless stat for pitchers. He was one of the finest pitchers in the game last season, despite only having a record of 10-11. Expect more of the same from Peavy this year. He'll likely have an ERA under 3.00, but lose more games than he wins just because he doesn't get enough run support.

#2 Overall San Diego Padre: Adrian Gonzalez, First Base

Gonzalez should be near the top of anybody's fantasy list at the first base position. He's a prototypical first baseman that will hit over 30 home runs and over 100 RBIs. He'll put up great numbers, and should last a little later in the draft than more well-known 1Bs like Albert Pujols and Justin Mourneau.

#3 Overall San Diego Padre: Kevin Kouzmanoff, Third Base

Just behind Gonzalez is another heavy-hitting corner infielder in Kevin Kouzmanoff. Kouzmanoff isn't as valuable because he sometimes struggle to get on base. His on-base percentage is below .300 which isn't very good, but he has pretty good pop in his bat. In his third year, he should reach career highs with over 25 HRs and close to 100 RBIs.

#4 Overall San Diego Padre: Heath Bell, Relief Pitcher

It will be strange seeing someone besides Trevor Hoffman come in to save the game for the Padres in the 9th inning this year. But Bell will take over that role, and has pretty decent stuff. The Padres may hand too many leads over to him so save opportunities will be limited, but in a pinch, Bell should make an effective closer for a fantasy team.

#5 Overall San Diego Padre: Edgar Gonzalez, Second Base

Edgar doesn't hit as well as his brother Adrian, but for a second baseman, he puts up respectable stats. He's not going to be a key piece on your team, but in a very deep league, he'll provide a consistent contribution.