For the last few years, Alex Rodriguez or Hanley Ramirez have been the consensus No. 2 overall pick behind Albert Pujols. It’s time for a revolution.
It’s not that there is anything wrong with Hanley or A-Rod — both are fine picks. But there is a man entering his prime poised to put it all together. I submit Troy Tulowitzki.
Position scarcity
The golden age of shortstops has clearly come and gone. Rodriguez plays third base now. Derek Jeter and Miguel?Tejada are declining. Pure defensive/speed shortstops like Elvin Andrus and Starlin Castro are back in style.
What about health?
Tulowitzki has proven to be extremely injury prone in his young career, playing an average of 132.2 games over the last four years. But these injuries were not chronic — a cut on his palm and a broken wrist were the most severe. He is just as likely as the next guy to stay healthy this season.
Why not Hanley?
Tulowitzki is a better power hitter than Ramirez, has better protection in his lineup and plays in a more hitter-friendly park. With Ramirez’s steal numbers back around 30, Tulowitzki is the man with more upside.
Top NBA pickups
C.J. Miles, SF, Jazz
Utah is floundering and they have turned to their 3-point specialist to get it turned around.
Mario Chalmers, PG,?Heat
Now locked in as the unquestioned starter, Chalmers can help owners in 3-pointers and steals.
Tyler Hansbrough, PF, Pacers
Showing a surprisingly impressive midrange jumper, “Psycho?T” has a chance to secure the starting PF job.
