2009 MLB Team Preview: Colorado

The crafty veteran is fading fast. He will never again put huge numbers, but is a solid (if he is healthy) 18 HRs and 75 RBI guy. That said, he could have a big season in him. A sleeper.

Good offensive numbers (.290 with 11 homers in 2008) mask his inability to get on base consistently. He is a very consistent defender with range and agility. Barmes should improve his numbers this season.

The 2007 Rookie of the Year struggled in 2008 but a strong finish could signal a productive 2009. The first half of '08 was marred with a torn left quadriceps and a cut right hand. In the 2nd half of eight, Tulo hit .327 and he has the potential for a 20 homer season in '09 if he can stay healthy.

He'll need a strong start to keep starting job and remains an injury risk. He shows flashes as he hit .343 over the first two months of the 2008. The Rockies are likely to platoon him at 2B/SS unless he can show some level of consistency.

Must improve road numbers and his plate discipline to be starter worthy for fantasy teams in 2009. In 2006, he hit .329 with 29 home runs but in 2008 the regression continued as he hit .286 with 21 HRs. Atkins struck out more than twice as much as he walked in 2008. He moved to first base to make room for rookie Ian Stewart at the end of 2008, so does have dual eligibility for 2009. A rebound is very questionable so draft accordingly.

If he qualifies at 2B his value takes a dramatic increase (played less than 20 games in '08). In the 2nd half of 2008, the prized Rockies prospect hit 10 home runs in 266 at-bats with an average around .300 until a dreadful September slump brought his average down to.259. Unless the Rockies trade Helton or Garrett Atkins, his playing time may be limited but the potential for an injury to Helton is likely so I'd recommend you roll the dice on Stewart because the payoff could be huge.

A breakout season is very possible in '09. He has .300/20+ potential in Coors, but doesn't get the same RBI chances hitting in the 8-hole. The guy has rare patience for a catcher and had the 2nd best OPS (McCann #1) among catchers in 2008. With more regular at bats in 2009, the sky's the limit for the unproven 26 year old backstop.

He is an outfielder who hits in Colorado. If Colorado would but him higher up in the order this 29 year old could be a fantasy monster

He is another outfielder. Who hits in Colorado. Many teams tried to deal for Smith after the World Series a couple years ago. We now find out what he can do

This guy proved he could get on base with the best leadoff hitters in the game last year. If he can add some Coors inspired power he could be a steal

If Colorado's new starting outfielders don't pan out, Fowler could be next up and after adjusting his swing in the minor leagues, could be a force

The only thing holding back this 172 strikeout fireballer is the ballpark he plays in. Start Ubaldo in all road games this year.

16 wins in Colorado puts Cook up this high on this list. Only 96 K's and a 1.34 WHIP is why he does not rank any higher.

This is how desperate the Rockies were for a closer. Far removed from his best (2006) season, Street could struggle at Colorado