Forget The Name Value

The fantasy season is coming to a close with 70 games remaining in the 2008 season. Yes, I know 70 games is almost half the season but this is a very important time of the year for all owners who are in contention for a championship. Also, this is the time of year where some players who have slumped are at the point where it is going to be an off year in their careers. Owners need to really understand that some players are not worth holding on to just because they have name value.

One of the biggest names that comes to mind is Derek Jeter of the Yankees. He is having his worst season as a pro this season and is worth a trade to another team. These guys are great to trade because other owners place large value on name brand players. Even though Jeter is having a terrible season people will just forget about the numbers in front of them and think about all those years where he was a fantasy changer.

The moral of the story is you need to look at your roster now and realize which players are worth a drop or a trade (please lean towards the trade option) because these players are not worth a penny in your lineup dragging your fantasy points to the bottom. So, go out there and try to make some offers that will help you make your fantasy team better.

"Everyone is expendable, as long as they make your team better."

Here are a few players, who are not of brand name value, that you should really consider because they are putting up the numbers.

Fernando Tatis (Mets) - Yes, he hasn't played since 2006 but he's producing. Over the last month is hitting .394AVG, 6HRss, and 16RBIs.

Juan Rivera (Angles) - Over the last month .328AVG, 5HRs, and 12RBIs.

Gregor Blanco (Braves) - Last month he is hitting .292AVG, 9RBIs, with 4SBs.

Mike Aviles (Royals) - This guy should be owned in almost all formats right now. Last month he is hitting .301AVG, 2HRs, 12RBIs, and 1SB.

Aaron Miles (Phillies) - Last month, .338AVG, 2HRs, and 12RBIs.

Those are just a few players who have no name brand value but are producing like one. Go out and check your waiver wire to see who is producing and remember to cover the name so you don't get all bias with name value. Fantasy production at this time of year is all you are looking for. The brand name value glasses are now gone!