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Fantasy Baseball 2015: David Ortiz Is Still A Top 50 Player

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By @BPiv_Sports

David Ortiz

Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

Fantasy baseball owners have a limited amount of roster spots for the 25 players drafted. Luckily, there is a utility spot to start another outfielder or infielder. But in today’s baseball, there are certain players who play solely as the designated hitter and should be used in the utility position. The best DH in the league today is David Ortiz and should be drafted as a top 50 player.

The DH/utility position has been used to start your sixth outfielder or backup third baseman. Things have changed. With half the teams in the league using an everyday designated hitter, those players provide just as much value as a fielder. Players like Ortiz or Chris Carter provide owners with the most important stats in baseball, home runs and RBIs.

In 2014, Ortiz had one of his best seasons. He hit .263 with 35 home runs and 104 RBIs. His home runs and RBI totals were the most since 2007, when he hit 35 and 117. He also played 142 games, most since 2011. Because Ortiz doesn’t play the field and has fewer at-bats than his teammates, he remains healthy for most of the season.

Despite being 39 years old, Ortiz can still put up those big numbers. He could hit .270 with 30 home runs and 95 RBIs. Now, would you rather have those numbers over 140 games or a player putting up a .300 average with just 10 home runs and 45 RBIs? Good choice.

Ortiz has an average draft position of 83.5 (ninth round). He can provide much value than those drafted around him, like a Joey Votto or Matt Holliday. Age is just a number for Ortiz as he will continue to dominate and help you win a fantasy championship.

Bill Pivetz is a fantasy sports blogger for Rant Sports. He also contributes to the MLB, NFL and Pro Wrestling sections. Follow him on Twitter @BPiv_Sports.

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