BaseballNewsOnline.com

The outfield has always been a primary source of fantasy baseball points and this year in the American league that should not change. The outfield position is the best position for flexible point building, and you can always find a source of whatever category you are missing. This season, the American League has a number of outstanding choices in the outfield, and here are the five best:

1. Grady Sizemore – Sizemore finally stepped up and had the type of fantasy baseball season everyone had been projecting for him in 2008. The speedy Sizemore is capable of giving you points in every category, and tends to give them to you in large bunches. Streaky at times, the overall picture is still exactly what any fantasy owner would be looking for. Grab Sizemore right away if you get the chance.

2. Josh Hamilton – Hamilton was easily the feel good story of the year both on a personal level and on a fantasy level. Those that took a chance with Hamilton last season were rewarded in a big way with one of the best statistical seasons they could ever have hoped for. Hamilton is no flash in the pan. He is multitalented, and the the ceiling has not been reached yet.

3. Carlos Quentin – Quentin also seemed to come out of nowhere last season, and his power numbers were absolutely insane. The former Diamondback really came into his own in the Windy City, and fantasy owners everywhere were scrambling to try to acquire him. He will not come as cheaply this season, however, as the word is out in fantasy circles. Quentin is a fantastic fantasy outfielder.

4. Matt Holliday – Holliday being signed by the Oakland A’s was one of the more important signings in the offseason. The A’s struggled to score runs at times last season, and Holliday should help a ton. The RBI opportunities may not be quite as good in Oakland, however, so that is why Holliday slides in at number four and not higher. Still, you can expect the usual production from this young superstar.

5. Nick Markakis – Markakis was absolutely a fantasy beast in 08 and he is far from being done. The Orioles young star is going to be even better this season as he will get the chance to bat in a prime spot in the lineup. Also, I would bet that his power numbers will increase as well. Markakis is not going to win your fantasy league singlehandedly, but it will seem as though he is trying. He gives you fantasy points every single game. That is consistency.