2009 Fantasy Baseball Sleeper - Miguel Montero, C, ARI (For Now)

In a surprising turn of events, Chris Snyder successfully wrestled the starting catcher's job in Arizona away from Miguel Montero. He cemented the role further in 2008 earning a three year extension likely spelling the end of Montero's tenure with the Diamondbacks.

There's a reason the Red Sox have targeted Montero to fill their catching void. The truth of the matter is he's pretty damn good. At 25, the former top 100 prospect is now a post hype sleeper whose fantasy value skyrockets if and when he is dealt.

What's his upside? With fifteen home runs in 414 at bats, Montero may be a twenty home run catcher right now. Even more impressive is his sixteen doubles in just 184 2008 at bats which also stands as a strong sign of future power projection.

Surprisingly, all Montero comps are nearly identical and point to a .255/.325/.425 which would rank him just a notch below Bengie Molina who is considered a solid twelve team fantasy catcher. Not bad for a catcher owned in 0.3% of ESPN fantasy leagues.

Of course his value is almost entirely based on the assumption of his being dealt. Should a deal to Boston materialize, he's an immediate add in both A.L. only and deep dynasty formats. In shallow leagues, he's not an add yet, but his projected slugging percentage indicates he could become an asset quickly.

Bookmark this post with:

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
•