Here's the first look at the 2014 Lester's Legends' First Base Rankings for NL-only fantasy baseball leagues.
1. Paul Goldschmidt, Arizona Diamondbacks
All Paul Goldschmidt did last year was hit .302 with 103 runs, 36 home runs, 125 RBI and 15 stolen bases. His success should come as no surprise, as he posted a .286-82-20-82-18 line in 2012. Goldschmidt was a highly touted prospect who has gradually become a star. At 26, he has solidified himself as the premiere first baseman in baseball.
2. Joey Votto, Cincinnati Reds
Joey Votto was a little disappointing, posting a .305-101-24-73-6 line last year, but he managed to play a full season after managing just 111 games in 2012. He’s a .314 hitter and has scored at least 100 runs in three different years. He won't overwhelm you with his power, but he’s steady.
3. Freddie Freeman, Atlanta Braves
Freddie Freeman posted a stellar .319-89-23-109-1 line. The Braves took care of him with a huge contract extension. He’s just 24, but he already has three seasons with at least 20 home runs. He should continue to grow.
4. Mark Trumbo, Arizona Diamondbacks
Trumbo will transition to the outfield for the D’backs. He has averaged 31.7 home runs and 94 RBI over the past three seasons. His eligibility at outfield gives him added versatility.
5. Adrian Gonzalez, Los Angeles Dodgers
Adrian Gonzalez’s power has dipped since leaving Boston, but he continues to provide a healthy batting average and plenty of RBI. Last year, he posted a .293-69-22-100-1 line. The Dodgers should have a potent lineup, which should put A-Gone in line for another stellar year.
6. Allen Craig, St. Louis Cardinals
Allen Craig hit .315 with 71 runs, 13 home runs and 97 RBI. He doesn't provide much power for the position, but he's hit .311 with 94.5 RBI per season over the past two years.
7. Anthony Rizzo, Chicago Cubs
Anthony Rizzo hit just .233, but he mashed 23 home runs with 80 RBI. He hit .285 in 337 at-bats in 2012, so he could turn things around—particularly if he can improve on his .258 BABIP.
8. Brandon Belt, San Francisco Giants
Brandon Belt hit .289 with 76 runs, 17 home runs, 67 RBI and five stolen bases. He'll give you a nice average and a little pop.
9. Justin Morneau, Colorado Rockies
Justin Morneau's 152 games played were his most since 2008. He finished with 17 home runs and 77 RBI. He had 19 home runs and 77 RBI in 2012. Going to Colorado should help improve Morneau's numbers.
10. Adam LaRoche, Washington Nationals
Adam LaRoche has quietly hit at had at least 20 home runs and 75 RBI in seven of the last nine seasons. He's not flashy, but he's consistent.
This article can also be read at LestersLegends.com here. Also check out:
- 2014 Fantasy Baseball Second Base Rankings
- 2014 Fantasy Baseball Third Base Rankings
- 2014 Fantasy Baseball Shortstop Rankings
- 2014 Fantasy Baseball Catcher Rankings
- 2014 Fantasy Baseball Outfielder Rankings
Read more MLB news on BleacherReport.com
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