Ryan Garko. Remember that name because you will soon be hearing a lot of the 23 year old Stanford University product.
After a storied career with the Cardinal, Garko, Cleveland's third round pick in the 2003 draft, spent the 2004 season blazing through the Indians farm system, starting the year in Kinston, getting midseason call up to Akron and finally ending the year in Buffalo.
In 2004, Garko hit a combined .330 with 22 Homers and 99 RBI's in just 430 at-bats.
For an encore Garko has dominated the Arizona Fall League thus far leading the league in Home Runs (4) and RBI's (16) while batting a robust .370 through the leagues first 15 games.
Despite his offensive prowess Garko may find it tough to crack the Cleveland lineup early on. Standing in his way are All-star catcher Victor Martinez and first baseman Travis Hafner who is coming off a career year.
If Garko has a hot spring I would expect the Indians to find a place for him in the lineup as a DH, but he may also be shuffled between Cleveland and Triple-A Buffalo during the early part of the season.
When he does earn an opportunity to play everyday in the majors, expect Garko to shine. All the kid does is hit, and he has the potential to be an all-star caliber player in the big leagues.
I would highly recommend taking Garko with a late round pick in all fantasy baseball leagues.
Fantasy Baseball Central You'll
find it at .... Fantasy Baseball Central. Fantasy & Rotisserie
Baseball strategy and advice. Plus over 750 links to information on
Fantasy Baseball." Visit Fantasy Baseball
Central!
TPA Hat Store
Choose from over 1000 MLB Hats
Choose from over 3600 College Hats from over 250 Schools