As mentioned before, we have a new writer, Joe. Here's his first article written for us. Look for his monthly article on this blog in 2008!


1. Andruw Jones- Jones only hit 26 home runs last year with a .222 batting average. A move to the Dodgers hit his already low value. He doesn't have nearly the same protection in the lineup as he did in Atlanta and playing half his games in that huge ballpark will cut down his power numbers. He will improve on last year's numbers but do not expect numbers like two or three years ago. I predict he'll have 30 home runs and a .240 batting average.
2. Mike Lowell- Lowell was one of if not the biggest fantasy surprise from last season. That being said, he is going to be 34 years old on Opening Day. That is right around the age most players begin to break down. Prior to last season he never had a season even close statistically. He was also in a contract year. Anyone remember Adrian Beltre? Expect the numbers he put up in '06. Do not fall into the trap and draft him early.
3. Aaron Rowand- Rowand is another player who had a career year in the final year of his contract. He did post similar numbers to '04. However, in '05 and '06 (before he got injured) his numbers were not nearly as impressive. Playing half his games at AT&T will hurt his numbers a bit. Add that to the fact that he has absolutely no protection in that lineup and I think it is safe to say he will not repeat his '07 numbers.
4. JJ Hardy- Hardy busted onto the fantasy scene last year with a blast. He hit 18 home runs before the All Star Break. He had owners frantically checking their waiver wires and overpaying in trades. However, after the All Star Break he only hit 8 home runs and was a huge disappointment. I predict he'll have around 20 home runs this year. Do not think that his second half was a "fluke" and he can really put up 36 homers.
5. Ian Kinsler- The first month of last season Kinsler looked like a 40 home run guy. As expected, he came down to Earth. Kinsler is a very solid player at a shallow position. He hit 14 home runs last year before the All Star Break and only 6 after. Expect him to be a 20/20 guy and nothing more. Otherwise you'll be disappointed

-Joe Cordi