It would be easy to overlook Mike Aviles.
After all, he plays in Kansas City, who are down to two fantasy mainstays (Billy Butler and Joakim Soria) now that Zack Greinke is with the Brewers.
I urge you to show some love for Mike Aviles, and not just because it’s Valentine’s Day.
After having just one April at-bat, Aviles hit .305 or better in four of the next five months en route to a .304 final average. His overall numbers weren’t overly impressive as he posted a .304-63-8-32-14 line in 424 ABs, but they are adequate for a backup second basemen or middle infield position.
The most encouraging aspect is how strong he finished. Aviles came alive in September scoring 20 of his 63 runs and slugging six of his eight homers. He also combined for 11 stolen bases in August and September.
His first-half and second-half splits illustrate how consistent he truly was last year.
Pre-All-Star: 55 games, 210 ABs, .305, 29 runs, 2 HR, 14 RBI, 2 SB, .718 OPS
Post-All-Star: 55 games, 214 ABs, .304, 34 runs, 6 HR, 18 RBI, 12 SB, .777 OPS
While I don’t expect Aviles to continue his September slugging and smash 20 home runs this year, he does have a history of moderate power. He had 10 homers in 419 ABs for the Royals in 2008 and a combined 27 in 752 ABs for Triple-A Ohama in 2007 and 2008.
Aviles is going on average, according to Mock Draft Central, with the 157th pick, which puts him in the 14th round.
He has second base eligibility, could possibly have SS eligibility in your league and potentially 3B eligibility, as he’s the likely starter at the hot corner for the Royals in 2011.
That positional flexibility makes him more attractive.
If you’re looking to round out your bench or add a middle infielder, don’t forget about Mike Aviles.
What are your thoughts on Aviles for 2011?
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