Can you even doubt Brian McCann at this point? He’s been one of the most consistent players at the position over the last six seasons and had it not been for an injury, McCann would’ve had a career high in home runs. Sure his RBI totals were down a bit from previous seasons, but we can attribute that batters around him (Dan Uggla, Jason Heyward) slumping for most of 2012. It seems like McCann has been around forever so many will be surprised to learn that he is only 28 and entering the prime of his career. McCann is one of those “set and forget” players.
Best case scenario:Â Starts to hit more home runs
Similar players: Matt Wieters (BAL), Miguel Montero (ARI), Carlos Santana (CLE)
Worst case scenario: Alex Avila (DET)
Strengths
Consistency, lineup, power, age. On paper, the Braves have quite the lineup and with McCann slotted in the fifth slot, he should have plenty of RBI opportunities. He hit 24 home runs, which was tied for most in his career, in his fewest games in any season. There wasn’t a significant bump in his HR/FB percentages, but McCann is hitting more fly balls which could lead to a big power year.
Weaknesses
Injury. There’s virtually nothing wrong with McCann as a catcher as he is consistently among the leaders at the position in every offensive category. He missed time with an oblique injury last season, but that doesn’t seem to be an issue that will bother him in 2012.
ADP Report (50.8)
I can’t quibble with this ADP as McCann is as sure of a fantasy asset you are going to get in the sixth round. He’s currently going behind Mike Napoli and Carlos Santana, but that’s mostly because those two have eligibility at first base where McCann is strictly a catcher. Draft with confidence.
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