Each week I will throw out some random rants on five players at a particular position…

Joey Votto, CIN – Through the first two weeks of the season Joey Votto has been proven to be fantasy’s best first basemen. The reigning NL MVP has reached based in each of the Reds’ 13 games and has delivered seven multi-hit efforts. His .425 batting average is the second best in the National League. Votto is as consistent and solid as they come. Look for a big summer ahead.

Billy Butler, KC – If he didn’t play in Kansas City Butler could be more highly regarded. His numbers certainly justify some recognition. He delivered his sixth multi-hit game of the season in Friday’s win over Seattle and is now hitting .375. The Royals are playing some good baseball early on and have an underrated lineup and Butler is its centerpiece.  He has top-five potential at the position.

Adrian Gonzalez, BOS – The Red Sox locked up their new first basemen this week as they agreed to a seven-year, $154 million deal. Despite a slow start to his Red Sox career (.268, 1 HR, 7 RBI), you have to figure that Gonzalez, a career .284-hitter, is going to put up some monster numbers in that lineup and playing at Fenway Park. Expect big things to come as the summer wears on.

Justin Smoak, SEA – Smoak was a player that the Mariners highly coveted when they dealt Cliff Lee to the Rangers last summer and to this point of the season the youngster is showing some glimpses of why Seattle was so eager to acquire him.  The 24-year old has had six of his 12 hits go for extra bases, but doesn’t figure to provide much power. Worth a look in dynasty and AL-only formats.

Brandon Belt, SF – After making the big league club out of camp the rookie has experienced some growing pains.  He’s batting just .200 and struck out 10 times in 45 at bats.  The team is looking at getting some time in right field and with Cody Ross coming back it remains to be seen where a struggling Belt will fit in the pecking order. I love his upside, but he may not deliver upon it this year.

Fantasy Baseball fantasy 5, fantasy advice, first basemen, joey votto, billy butler, adrian gonzalez, justin smoak, brandon belt