James Loney 2010 Fantasy Ranking

Earlier today I was discussing a leaner and meaner James Loney, and what we might expect from him in 2010. Now it's time to take a look at what fantasy owners should be able to expect from him in 2010. Rotoauthority.com currently ranks James Loney as the 22nd overall first baseman. He is also projected to be drafted around the twentieth round, which means he could go undrafted in some leagues. Loney is definitely worth a bench spot, as this could be the year that Loney breaks out for a huge year.

James Loney seems to think this will be his year. He was recently quoted saying on this subject, "I feel this is the year." I think Loney is capable of hitting near .300 all season, putting up 90 RBI's, 70 runs, and 20 home runs. These numbers would escalate Loney closer to the top 15 first basemen rankings.  Loney has managed to be consistent in two back to back seasons. There is no reason to think he can't put up the same numbers, or improve upon them in 2010. For this reason if you can get him in the late rounds and stash him on your bench, do it! You know what you are going to get with Loney, and if he is able to improve upon those numbers, you are going to be so glad you read this. 


Don't pay for stats that haven't been put up yet. What I mean by this is, Loney hasn't hit 20 home runs so don't try and draft him early and waste a valuable draft pick. For example in so many mock drafts I am seeing people take Billy Butler (1B from Royals) taken in the eighth round, that to me is fairly early pick for a player who has not been able to prove to be consistent. You probably won't regret the pick, but you are going to be paying for stats and performance that have never been reached before.  Garrett Jones, Chris Davis, and Michael Cuddyer, are all players taken fairly early in drafts this year. Wait until the later rounds and grab a guy like Loney.  Low risk with tons of upside in 2010 fantasy baseball.