Players Who Could Get Cheap Eligibility

Jason Heyward – RF/CF

Heyward has been seen in center field on a few occasions this year, and it is clear that the Braves would rather have Heyward as the backup centerfielder than carry a weak hitting bench bat. He plays top notch defense in right field, so he can likely handle the position in a pinch without any issues. In a league that accounts for outfield positions rather than outfield in general, Heyward could be very beneficial if he eventually does earn enough games to qualify in center. This is not a given, but it something to keep an eye on as the season progresses.

Eric Hosmer – 1B/OF

Ned Yost put Hosmer in right field for a game just a few days ago, in what could be Yost’s game plan when the Royals play in National League parks. One of the team’s best hitters, Billy Butler, will be forced to sit on the bench in NL parks otherwise, so Hosmer getting some work in the outfield makes a decent amount of sense as he is certainly athletic enough to handle a corner outfield spot. It will depend on the eligibility roles in your league, but Hosmer could end up with cheap OF eligibility which could really be beneficial as first base is consistently extremely deep. This, like Heyward’s situation, is not a given but is worth following to see if he does end up getting OF eligibility.

Chris Parmelee – 1B/OF

Parmelee is probably going to play first base more than anywhere else, but he should also get some games in right field. Having the added 1B/OF label should increase his value, as he is not expected to be too great of a performer. Having some extra flexibility should help him land on some more rosters and be used as a bench bat in deeper leagues. Parmelee is certainly not as talented as Heyward or Hosmer, but his eligibility should make him a bit more useful in fantasy formats.

Jeff Keppinger – 1B/2B/3B/SS

Keppinger has received time at every infield position this year, which could make him a decent bench player for a fantasy team. He’ll never be a guy you stick in every day at any position, as he’ll likely be a platoon player unless the Rays suffer a rash of injuries, but he has a chance to have eligibility at every position and he hits lefties very well. In AL only formats he is an even better target due to his extra eligibility.

If there is anyone I looked over that might end up getting some surprise eligibility, mention them in the comments section so we can discuss further about their potential value.