This Kid is a Keeper

Written by Dr Furious on September 30, 2005

Well folks the Matrix is winding down to its conclusion, and the half point lead has now become a five and a half point bulge. There is still plenty of time for pitchers to get blown up like the World Trade Towers, and bats to go as cold as an icicle in Poland. Since the Matrix is a keeper league (four players are protected each year), Furious will take a look at some young players who might receive some keeper consideration. So strap on your seatbelts, place your seat in an upright position, and take a short ride with me on the information highway. Let’s get this party started with …

(Big) Willy Taveras (Center Field)

Taveras has done a pretty good job setting the table for the Astros all season long. He is currently batting .290 and adds a good amount of stolen bases with 34 on the season. Most would like to see leadoff hitters score more than 80 runs, but the Astros were definitely not crushing the ball this year. Considering this was Taveras’ first full season, anyone protecting him hopes that this is the tip of the iceberg. If your options are not great, Taveras might be a guy you consider keeping.

Zach Duke (Starting Pitcher)

There was and is a whole lot of hype surrounding this lefty, and for good reason. Furious is not sure if he is moving Zach Duke up on his draft card for next season, but Duke has put up some keeper-quality numbers. He has posted a 1.85 ERA with a 1.20 WHIP, while winning seven games in thirteen starts. Duke does play for the Pirates and stikeouts per inning could be a little higher, so those two factors alone may make owners wary about protecting him. Owners in salary cap or deep leagues might want to think long and hard about protecting the young Pirate next season … providing you have faith that he is the nasty.

Chase (Cooperstown) Utley (second baseman)

Cooperstown, or Coop if you prefer, has proved that he deserves to be an everyday player. He is putting up ridiculous numbers for a second baseman and is a five category stud. His numbers this season come in at .288/26/106 with a few games to go. Add in the 88 runs and 15 stolen bases, and it becomes very clear why Utley should receive keeper consideration. In case you were wondering, Furious does own Coop and he will be one of my keepers. You would be hard pressed to find that kind of production out of the second base slot from any other player not named Jeff Kent or Brian Roberts.

Chone Figgins (everywhere)

Normally I do not support keeping a guy for one particular category, but this may be the exception. With 58 stolen bases on the season, Figgins can hold a fantasy owner down in that category. Another valuable aspect that Chone brings to the table: he plays everywhere. Coming into this season, Figgins was eligible at 2B, 3B, SS, LF, CF, and RF. While it looks like he has not played enough games at short or right field to qualify for those positions next season, his versatility makes the Angel a keeper consideration. Chone is currently batting .289 and has 8 homers, so he does not kill you in other categories. Injuries are easier to manage with a player like Figgins on your fantasy squad.

Well people, I hope you enjoyed what you read. Furious has to go hire a cleaner to eliminate some detritus at the humble abode of William Bennett. Apparently he thinks that black people should abort all their babies as an effective crime-reducing strategy. I know it is Friday and Furious is not supposed to hate, but allow me some leeway. I did just get through an entire article sans hate. If you know of any cleaners that are reasonably priced, shoot me an email. I will entertain all offers. Have a good one folks.

Spew some hate, love, or cleaning quotes in Doc’s direction via email at docfury@rotogods.com

-- Written by Dr Furious on September 30, 2005