I realize that I have been focusing on deep leagues a lot lately, and kind of skipping over the standard leagues. To be honest, I really only play in two standard leagues anymore, and that is because I have been in them for a decade. I usually do deeper leagues. Deeper leagues do take more work, and a quicker trigger finger, so I find myself focusing on them more. Sometimes my standard league teams suffer for it. So since I am analyzing my standard team rosters, I figure it is a good time to do the add/drops for you standard league players out there.
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I will go position by position and give you players that can help your cause, and those that aren’t pulling their weight. All of the recommended adds are available in 30 percent or more of ESPN leagues.
This piece will focus on the shortstops. The catchers are here. The first basemen are here. The second basemen are here.
Drop/Trade:
Erick Aybar, Angels: He has struggled since the break, and is showing no signs of turning it around. He his hitting just .154 with one RBI in August. He has not stolen a base since July 23rd, and has not homered since June 29th. There is no reason to hang on to him right now.
Asdrubal Cabrera, Nationals: A change of scenery has not helped Cabrera. In fact, you could argue that the Nats were better off with Danny Espinosa. He is hitting .233 with no homers and no steals in his new home, and only one extra base hit. He is no longer suitable for standard leagues. Unless you are desperate after losing Hanley Ramirez.
Escobar can give you a boost in standard leagues. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Replacement Options:
Alcides Escobar, Royals: He is still swiping bases, and unlike some speedsters, has managed to sustain a .280 average over the course of the season. He won’t provide much power, but there is usually room in your lineup for a guy hitting .280 with 23 steals.
Chris Taylor, Mariners: His career is off to a fast start in Seattle. Taylor is hitting .375, but only has two RBI and no other counting stats. He has scored seven runs though, so you could get a slight boost there as well.
Jordy Mercer, Pirates: He is quietly on a tear since the end of July, hitting .340 with a homer, seven RBI, and six runs scored. His overall numbers of .264, seven homers, 40 RBI, and a pair of steals are good enough for a standard league slot as long as he keeps hitting.