Tampa Bay

The Rays, in their first playoff appearance, are making a name for themselves and fast. They are leading the Central Division Champs two games to none in a short 5-game ALDS.

Here are a few things to take note of for the 2009 Fantasy Season.

Evan Longoria is showing he is not just a regular season performer but a post season hero as well. He is currently batting .571 with 4hits which includes 2HRs. Look for his value to sky-rocket next year if he continues his successful post-season. If the Rays make the ALCS or even the World Series other fantasy owners will start to recognize his Longoria's ability to crush the ball.

Rocco Baldelli is back and has quietly put himself back on some hardcore fantasy player's radars. After another setback in spring training from a mitocondrial disorder that landed him on the 60-Day DL he has come back to provide the Rays with some pop off the bench. Owners should make sure his name is on your draft sheets, if he continues to stay healthy, because Baldelli might be that sleeper that can bring you some hitting stats (.275-.285AVG, 15-25HRs, 75-100RBIs, and throw a hand full of steals in as well). The only thing holding him back is his injuries. If he can stay healthy most owners can grab him near the end of the 2009 fantasy draft as a 4th/5th outfielder.

Rookie Sensation

Highly touted 3B Evan Longoria of the Rays has not completely lived up to his hype just like Alex Gordon of the Royals from last year. So far, Longoria is hitting .231, 4HR's, 17RBI's, and 2SB's. For owners, don't jump off the bandwagon just yet but if you have a chance to unload Longoria and you are in a non-keeper, then go right ahead. This is why I don't get too wrapped in highly touted prospects in my leagues. I focus on guys who have done it year in and year out to make the core of my team. Sprinkling in highly touted prospects into my lineup works but basing your team around these prospects just makes you a 2nd tier fantasy team almost every year.

Longoria

Highly touted Evan Longoria a 3B for the Rays was called up to the big team. All the owners who drafted Longoria and for some who took him a few rounds too early should be extremely happy with this turn of events. Even though Longoria wasn't hitting well in the minors to start the year, .200AVG, he was still called up.

Owners should put him into your lineups ASAP. This kid can hit just as long as he starts to get comfortable in his new surroundings in Tampa.