Benny Sieu – USA Today Sports
Sometimes a simple change of scenery and a starting nod is all a guy needs to go from an afterthought to an impact fantasy baseball option; and that’s exactly what has happened with Milwaukee Brewers 1B/3B Juan Francisco.
Francisco started the season with the Atlanta Braves and played sparingly, but still displayed some power with five home runs and 16 RBI in 35 games. Unfortunately in a loaded lineup there wasn’t much room for Francisco and he was shipped at the start of June to the Brew Crew for minor league pitcher Tom Keeling.
With Aramis Ramirez now healthy, Francisco has hit his way into the everyday lineup over Yuniesky Betancourt. Since coming to the Brewers he is hitting .256 with a .341 OBP, six home runs and 15 RBI in just 25 games. Francisco has been especially hot of late with five home runs and nine RBI in his last nine games played.
With a spot in the everyday lineup, Francisco has gotten into a groove without a doubt. The big man has true power and has shown that throughout his short career, so this is no fluke.
He has eligibility at both first and third base, which boosts his value, and he is currently owned in only 17 percent of ESPN leagues. Those that need a power boost at either of the corner positions should have no hesitations adding Francisco to their lineup. If he isn’t available in your league, he should be able to be acquired on the cheap, so see what you have to give up for him, because he could help your team in the long term.
Rich Arleo is a fantasy sports expert with Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @Rarleo, ‘Like’ him on Facebook and add him to your networks on Google.
