Hoping To Rebound: Russell Martin's 2010 Fantasy Analysis

Russell Martin was arguably the biggest disappointment for the Dodgers in 2009. He was also a huge disappointment for fantasy owners across the world, including yours truly. I found myself in denial the entire season, as a huge Russell Martin fan, and a fantasy owner.

After back to back All-Star seasons, Russell Martin seemingly forgot how to be a major league baseball player. He still walked at a better-than-average rate and stole a handful of bases, but his power completely evaporated, and his seven homers and nineteen doubles were both career lows. So after a season of struggles from start to finish, and without any signs of resurgence during the season, drafting Russell Martin comes with one unanswered question, What the heck happened to this guy? Everybody joking or not blamed the "J" on the back of Martin's 2009 jersey. The Dodgers blame a lack of confidence over a lack of ability, which makes sense considering he's only 27, and just entering the prime years of his career. I personally think his struggles can be blamed on the yoga, and the great shape Martin got himself into last off-season. Last year he reported to camp significantly thinner. I think the weight loss attributed to his loss of power, and the rest of his troubles at the plate last season. 

Ready for some good news? On the day pitchers and catchers had to report to training camp, Russell Martin walked into the Dodgers’ clubhouse with added muscle that he said made him look “like a fullback.” Back when Martin had his near 20-20 season he weighed about 218-225 according to Dylan Hernandez. Martin said he weighed 206-207 pounds at the start of camp last year. He said he weighs 231 pounds now. So adding muscle and 24 pounds sounds good right? Well if there is any hope of Martin rebounding, some muscle and weight is a good start.

Obviously there is no significant evidence of an impending rebound.  Martin comes with a huge amount of uncertainty in this years draft. I am predicting right now that Martin rebounds, and maybe even earns himself a Comeback Player of the Year award. I honestly believe the weight loss, the death of his mother, and lack of focus were the keys to Martin's disaster season. While Martin has had a chance to regroup and refocus, and has taken the off-season to beef up and put on some weight, the loss of a loved one, especially your mother is something that is impossible to forget. I do think that Martin has properly dealt with the loss of his mother at this point, and is ready more than ever to play baseball.

2010 Mock drafts show Martin is projected to be drafted somewhere between rounds 10 and 13, so he is definitely worth a middle-round pick in case he does rebound. Tim Dierkes from RotoAuthority.com ranks Russell Martin as the number five overall catcher for 2010 fantasy baseball. I personally don't see any reason Martin shouldn't be in the top 5, and he should be a huge steal in the middle rounds if you can draft him. On draft day if Martin is still there in round 12, trust me when I say draft him.