Second Half Hitters - The Hot Corners

We've done a lot with splits so far this year, but it always bears repeating. This is the time of year to unload certain players and target others in return - sell high and buy low, remember? It's going to be a lot easier to do this in the next week or so, because Matthew Berry at ESPN has already written about first and second half splits. Once the major fantasy analysts pick it up, the other owners in your league won't be nearly as willing to talk trades. So here a few names to start with:

First Basemen: Ryan Howard and Prince Fielder have already been documented as guys to buy for the second half. Kevin Youkilis and Justin Morneau are the two ultimate sell guys - both are notorious weak second-half hitters. But did you know that in 100 fewer games post-All-Star Break, Lance Berkman has 50 fewer HR and 165 fewer RBI? His average generally holds but the power slows down as the season drags on. And I know he's hurt, but last season, Carlos Pena hit 26 of his HR after the All-Star Break. Over his career, his OPS goes up over 100 points in the season's second half. He's been such a disappointment that he could be worth stashing and prove to be a valuable player for both Tampa and you.

Third Basemen: On the other side of the diamond, the underwhelming David Wright is probably worth buying. He had a .364 second half last season. More importantly, the Met schedule for July, August, and September includes a lot of Pittsburgh and Washington. I'm at a loss to explain Jorge Cantu or Ramon Vazquez, and really can't advocate keeping either one for a second half. Neither has a track record of success, and though both are on good teams, I just see too much risk in holding on to them. And Aramis Ramirez, who's been hot recently, has 118 homers before the All-Star Break, and another 118 after... in 150 fewer games. 

Check back for the middle infield and the rest of the diamond, and look for a second half pitchers report down the road. And of course, we'll continue to highlight individuals with Trendspottings. So good luck on your mid-season maneuvering!