Here’s a quick look at the early contenders for the National League and American League Rookie of the Year Candidates:

NL
My Pick: OF Bryce Harper (WAS) – The 19-year old has excelled in the No. 2 spot in the Nationals’ batting order and making some historic strides. He is batting .350 with four home runs, 13 RBI and three stolen bases in his last 21 games and he continues to impress.

Others to Consider:
SP Lance Lynn (STL) – Hard to argue with 9-2, 2.66 ERA and 74 K’s in 74 1/3 IP.
OF Kirk Nieuwenhuis (NYM) – Has been a savior to the Mets and is versatile in the field
SP Wade Miley (ARI) – Pleasant surprise it what has been a disappointing season in desert
SS Zack Cozart (CIN) – Been a big boost at the plate and in the field for first-place Reds
1B Yonder Alonso (SD) – After a rough start, Alonso is getting his feet playing in Petco

AL
My Pick: OF Mike Trout (LAA) – A year older than Harper, the 20-year old Trout has game-changing speed and is even displaying a bit of power. After multiple-hit efforts in 8 of his last 10 games, Trout has his average up to .354 to along with 6 HR, 26 RBI and 15 SB.

Others to Consider:
SP Yu Darvish (TEX) – A rough patch of late has hurt his numbers, but still 5-0 at home
C Jesus Montero (SEA) – The best is yet to come, but he’s one of many young M’s sluggers
RP Ryan Cook (OAK) – With troubles at the back end of the bullpen, Cook has saved the A’s
SP Wein-Yin Chen (BAL) – One of the reasons for the Orioles’ early success
SP Felix Doubront (BOS) – Been as good as any starter has for Boston this season
3B Will Middlebrooks (BOS) – Has quickly become a Beantown favorite as a blue collar kid
SP Tommy Milone (OAK) – Hasn’t been eye-popping, but has been steady, especially at home

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TOP TEN
1. Ryan Braun (MLW)
2. Matt Kemp (LA)
3. Jose Bautista (TOR)
4. Carlos Gonzalez (COL)
5. Curtis Granderson (NYY)
6. Jacoby Ellsbury (BOS)
7. Justin Upton (ARZ)
8. Matt Holliday (STL)
9. Andrew McCutchen (PIT)
10. Josh Hamilton (TEX)

UP CLOSE
Jay Bruce (CIN) - His averaged dropped 25 points in 2011 as he finished with a .256 mark. However, his career-high 32 HR and 97 RBI were welcomed by fantasy owners. Bruce should be drafted as a top 20 outfielder and possesses great upside at 24 years of age.

BREAKOUT AHEAD
Desmond Jennings (TB) - After getting a call up in July last season, Jennings quickly made an impact for the Rays and fantasy owners alike. He managed to collect 10 home runs, 25 RBI, 20 stolen bases and 44 runs scored in just 63 games. With a full season ahead the youngster could easily top the 100-run plateau while swiping 40-plus bags.

BUST CANDIDATE
Melky Cabrera (SF) - After being a journeyman most of his career, Cabrera posted career numbers in Kansas City last season. The Royals responded by selling high and dealing him to the Giants. While he produced as a top 50 fantasy performer last year in mixed formats, he'll likely revert back to something closer of the player we watched the previous five seasons.

FUTURE STAR
Bryce Harper (WAS) - The 19-year old phenom is a five-tool player with huge upside, but he's a long shot to make the Opening Day roster. The top-rated prospect in the game in a fantasy commodity though in keeper leagues and owners should watch his performance this spring in year-to-year formats.

FANTASY 101
Knowing your roster requirements is a must, but in most leagues a roster will consist of at least five outfielders. It is important to get statistical balance in the catagory. While there are some big names atop the position's rankings, plenty of value can be had late. Using tiers to predetermine players' values is more important at this position than any other.

COMPLETE RANKINGS | LATEST ADP

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