Second base is becoming a deep position with the breakouts had by Kelly Johnson and Martin Prado last year. Finding a player at the keystone who will develop into a top 10 talent is a difficult task. Here are a few who could join the game's top fantasy second sackers.
Gordon Beckham - Probably the best bet to make the leap up the ranks, Beckham has shown flashes of what he can do but has yet to put it together for a full season. His sparkling rookie season enticed us but he flopped early in 2010 before catching fire in the second half. He has 20 HR power with an AVG in the .290 range a possibility with 10 SB tossed in for good measure.
Sean Rodriguez - Playing time is no certainty for the young Rays second baseman but if given the chance he could put up some nice stats. His power is plus and he is a smart if not fast baserunner. His biggest flaw is the lack of contact and that will put a cap on his AVG. If given a full time role in 2011 he could provide 25 HR, .265 AVG and 10-15 SB
Danny Espinosa - The Nationals have a future 20-20 man in Espinosa. One of the better power/speed combo youngsters in the game he could make an impact as soon as this year. Contact is also a problem for Espinosa so don't expect a high AVG. With little competition in the Nationals organization he should see plenty of at bats. Espinosa probably won't blow any minds this year but he looks like a nice bet for 15-15 with a chance for more.
Ryan Raburn - Raburn may not play everyday at second in 2011 but he should have eligibility and should be playing somewhere everyday. If given a starting role he will provide heaps of upside at the position. Raburn could hit 25 HR in 500 AB with a .270 AVG.
Eric Young Jr. - The Rockies seem hell bent on keeping Young from getting everyday at bats. Young is one of the fastest players in the minors and has the plate discipline to be a great lead off hitter in the majors. He has some pop so hitting in Coors means 15 HR is within reach along with 15 triples. If the Rockies come to their senses and start Young we could have our next fantasy stud at second.
Tsuyoshi Nishioka - Whether he will play SS or 2B is still up in the air but wherever he lands he could be an immediate fantasy impact. A batting champ in Japan, Nishioka should hit for a decent AVG in America. Like most Japanese players he won't hit for power but should steal a few bases to make up for it. Projecting Japanese players in the majors is difficult until seeing them play on a regular basis. He could end up a late round bargain but who knows.
Mike Aviles - Hampered by injuries Aviles has been unable to show us what he is truly capable of. He should provide an AVG in the .300 range and has enough pop to send 15 balls over the wall. He adds in enough speed that a healthy season could mean a top 10 ranking in next year's position charts.