This article is part of our The Daily Duel series.
This column will focus on players that are good "Values" in FanDuel's salary cap contests. Typically, I'll try to cover a player or two at each position every week throughout the season. Remember, a value here could be a minimum-priced player ($2,200) or a higher-priced option that is still undervalued based on expected production.
VALUES
Catcher
Brian McCann, $3,200 - McCann isn't very cheap at this price, but is still a solid value when you look at the price of Jonathan Lucroy ($4,700). While the Yankees' lineup isn't what it used to be, McCann typically hits in the middle of the batting order and he should take advantage of the short right field porch at Yankee Stadium. Use him when he's home (.729 OPS) and shy away from him on the road (.583 OPS).
First Base
Anthony Rizzo, $3,500 - Like McCann, Rizzo is not an overwhelming value considering his price. However, there are 10 other players at the position with a higher price tag. Rizzo has a 1.015 OPS over the last two weeks and it seems as though daily fantasy players don't choose him because he's on a bad offensive team. While the wind at Wrigley blows in as much as it blows out, Rizzo should always be a consideration, especially in the latter circumstances.
Second Base
Ryan Raburn, $2,500 - Jonny Gomes, Scott Hairston, Mike Olt, Derek Norris and Raburn are the answers. The question - Who are players you should consider when they're facing a lefty on any particular day? Raburn has been a little disappointing this season against southpaws but his 1.020 OPS last season suggests that he should be fine going forward. Again, only use him when he's up against a lefty, but the Indians' lineup has shown the ability to produce runs lately.
Third Base
Manny Machado, $2,300 - I have to admit, it was a little odd to check out this position and see that Lonnie Chisenhall ($4,100) was the highest priced player. Machado hasn't matched his 2013 production this season, but his injury is likely to blame. This price is likely the floor and his .703 OPS over the last week seems to indicate he's trending in the right direction. In his brief career, Machado has hit better at Camden Yards, something to keep in mind when thinking about using him.
Shortstop
Jimmy Rollins, $2,900 - It's easy to forget about Rollins in daily fantasy considering he's on the wrong side of 35 years old. Rollins is actually turning back the clock as his current OPS (.730) is better than last season's mark (.666). He already has eight home runs and with 11 stolen bases, is on pace to easily eclipse last year's mark (22). He's also hit safely in his last 13 games and typically hits better against right-handed pitching.
Outfield
Kevin Kiermaier, $2,500 - You're going to struggle to find an outfielder at this price that has an .984 OPS. Granted, it's only been 82 plate appearances for the youngster but his .823 OPS at Durham (an extreme pitcher's park) suggests that there's some legit upside here. He's got some speed and with his early success has been hitting towards the top of the Rays' anemic order. Plus, he's going to see good pitches, especially if he continues to hit in front of Evan Longoria.
NEWBIES
Catcher
Jesus Montero, $2,800 - If you had to pick a winner in the Montero-for-Pineda trade, who would it be? Montero is finally back up with the Mariners and hit a home run Tuesday, while batting cleanup for them. He had eight home runs and 40 RBI with Tacoma before his call-up but the .800 OPS in the PCL isn't overly impressive. Still, Montero is only 24 and he possesses a lot of upside, especially if he continues to hit in the heart of the Seattle lineup.
Outfield
Jake Marisnick, $2,200 - There are a few reasons to consider Marisnick in your lineup in the near future. First, he has a rock-bottom price, and considering some of the dominant pitching performances we've seen lately out of the high-priced pitchers, the outfield could be a good punting spot. Marisnick was in contention for a roster spot to start the season, but the Marlins likely wanted to get him everyday work and sent him down. He is one of those intriguing, potential power/speed players that will definitely provide more steals than home runs. As long as Christian Yelich is on the DL, look for him to be a regular in the Marlins' lineup with the possibility of him staying with the big club for the rest of the season.
