As the season rolls around, let’s examine the recent Salvador Perez injury, Miguel Sano’s foot wound, and a few forgotten players who may bring value in ’19.

Salvador Perez, C, KC (elbow)

Perez’ value really hinged on accruing more at-bats than other catchers each of the last six seasons. Perez will be 29 years old on opening day in 2020 and will turn 30 a few months into the season in May. Dynasty owners are left wondering what to do with Perez and what his future value will be?

In shallow formats, 12-teams or fewer, I’d advise you to cut bait and make use of every roster spot you have available. If deeper formats, I’d bite the bullet and hold onto him. I think Perez will contribute similarly to ’20 & ’21. He is scheduled to be a free agent in ’22. Even if he remains with Kansas City, something that is not a lock with MJ Melendez developing, it is doubtful he’ll get as many reps as he has in the past. 30-year-olds don’t heal up as nicely as young men. He’ll require more days off, and like it or not, the elbow may bother him from time to time.

Miguel Sano, 3B, MIN (heel)

Has there been a better time to buy Miguel Sano? The wound on his foot is pretty severe, so expect owners to be even lower on his value in the next few weeks. He recently received a surgical procedure known as debridement to his wound, which is cutting off the dead/bad tissue. Debridement is only done when the wound is reasonably large and failing to heal well. He will be out until at least May, but I’d suspect it will be closer to early to mid-June before he returns. If you believe in the bat, buy now. He’s only 25, and the potential remains for him to be an elite hitter. I’m buying.

Johnny Cueto, SP, SF (elbow)

Yes, he’s out for ’19, but his poor performance all came during his injury-plagued pitching performances. Cueto could rebound to be a valuable fantasy asset in ’20. Keep him on your radar as a possible mid to late season addition in formats that keep more than 35 players.

Jharel Cotton, SP, Oak (elbow)

Remember him and his devastating cambio? He’s due to return in the summer, and while it may take him a while to refine his command, he’s worth a look in deeper formats. Oakland certainly has openings in their staff this year. I’ll be monitoring his minor league numbers closely when returns.

Clint Frazier, OF, NYY (head)

Once a top prospect, Frazier has had a very productive offseason. Only a few aging veterans only impede his path to playing time. I was surprised to see that Clint Fraizer was available in a few of my first-year player drafts in 12-15 team leagues. While concussions do carry long-term concerns, the Yankees played it slow with him, and I’m hopeful he can be a productive force this season.