Astros in Fantasy: Ranking draft-worthy position players

Sep 21, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) hits a single during the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Oakland Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kenny Karst-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 21, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve (27) hits a single during the sixth inning against the Oakland Athletics at Oakland Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kenny Karst-USA TODAY Sports /
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Clear-cut starters: Carlos Correa, George Springer, Alex Bregman

Sep 6, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Houston Astros right fielder George Springer (4) and shortstop Carlos Correa (1) celebrate a 4-3 win over the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 6, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Houston Astros right fielder George Springer (4) and shortstop Carlos Correa (1) celebrate a 4-3 win over the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

Correa finished 90th in ESPN’s 2016 player rater despite a great deal of hype coming into the season. The hype returns, however, as he’s ranked 17th overall and second at his position in 2017, behind only Manny Machado, who is also eligible at third base. Correa could be primed for a big year, and his draft position may reflect that. Picking him in the first round would be a reach, but he may go in Round Two. If he falls to the third round, he could be a bargain.

Springer was ranked 78th overall in ESPN’s 2016 rater, owing to strong power numbers and plenty of walks. He’s ranked 13th among outfielders for 2017, though if he can bump up his batting average and cut down on the strikeouts, he could be a steal. As of now, he’ll likely be drafted in the fourth or fifth round. If he falls any lower, grab him.

Bregman presents possibly the most interesting fantasy case among Astros players. His incredibly high ceiling, coupled with his lack of experience at the major league level, makes him difficult to value. ESPN has him ranked ninth among third basemen for the 2017 season. Picking him before the seventh round would be a reach, but beware of someone reaching for him anyway. He could have a huge season, or he could struggle. But I wouldn’t bet against him.