Middle Infielders
Similar to corner infielders, each team selects a second baseman, a shortstop and a middle infielder who can play either position. For the first time since 2012, Mike Trout was not the most expensive player in the draft. That honor went to Jose Altuve, who was the first player off the board at a shocking $45.
Robinson Cano ($31) and Brian Dozier ($30) also crossed the $30 threshold at second base. Seattle’s Jean Segura, who qualifies at both second base and shortstop, went for $26 and was the priciest player among newcomers to the American League.
Shortstop had even more star power at the top. In addition to Manny Machado at $38, Carlos Correa ($37), Francisco Lindor ($30) and Xander Bogaerts ($29) all went for more than the third-highest outfielder. These four players, all younger than 25, will certainly be fascinating to watch as they continue to develop. Any one of them could be the most valuable at the position in 2017. I personally would bid the most for Correa, but Lindor has the best chance to exceed his LABR auction value.
As previously mentioned, Yoan Moncada went for $14 as a third baseman. While it won’t be long before he patrols second base in Chicago, the incumbent Tyler Saladino went for $6 and Yolmer Sanchez (formerly Carlos) was selected for $1. The Royals have a plethora of options at second base, none of them particularly intriguing. However, in a league that uses only AL players, a boring starter is still a starter nonetheless. Raul Mondesi was the favorite option here for his speed, going at $6. Whit Merrifield ($2), Cheslor Cuthbert ($1 as a third baseman) and Christian Colon (reserve round) did not generate much interest.