Brian Roberts isn’t expected to do much this year but if he stays healthy he should put up solid numbers.
Analysis: Brian Roberts hit over .300 this spring and is hitting ninth in the Baltimore batting order. Hitting ninth isn’t that bad of a spot for Roberts. Nick Markakis, Manny Machado and Adam Jones are hitting “behind” him which means his run total could be more than respectable. Roberts is thirty-five years old but over his last 115 games he has stolen 19 bags and was only caught 4 times. Unfortunately those 115 games have taken place over the past three years due to various injuries. Roberts is a career .280 hitter so the only negatives will be his power numbers.
Roberts was 2 for 4 in the opener in Tampa which is always a good sign. He could be leading off and bump Markakis to the two spot if Manny Machado’s walk rate isn’t remotely decent. Either way, Brian Roberts should put up good numbers this year if he stays healthy. He’s available in well over ninety percent of fantasy leagues which is understandable. Monitor his health and especially his batting average/BABIP going forward because he may be a valuable asset at second base in the near future.