No trickery involved...

For instance, I can't see putting McPherson ahead of Chad Tracy if I have a need now or a future need for a 3B - both the same age, both LH - only one guy actually has 300+ quality PAs and the other doesn't. Since I have no way of knowing for sure who will be the better player down the road, why not take the guy who could actually help you this season? Gives you a lot more options - if he busts in year two, a contender might take him if you don't need him as a rent a player upgrade - conversely if you are in it he could be a good bench guy regardless of the future - if you are out of it and his 2nd season numbers look solid, maybe you can trade the 3B you currently have to a contender without a drop-off and help build for the future with an extra pisk or two.

Anyway, my top 3 are Mauer, Reed, Wright. Upton, Grienke, Madritsch I like as well...

But I wouldn't be upset with either of the Asian relievers who K about a batter an inning with Whips around 1.00, and if I needed a platoon option at 2B or SS Matsui could help plus give me a guy who could get better.

Fred "Always play for this year if you can" Cline