FanNation - The Republic of Sport

Starting pitcher Phil Hughes had a good pitching line against the Twins on Sunday, but he didn't pitch all that well. He needs at least six more starts to work out his throwing issues. Hard throwers need more time, and although Hughes throws a heavy ball, his fastest pitch was only 91. The good news is that he was able to compete without his good stuff - a key to being a good major league pitcher. The bad news is that his pitching mechanics haven't improved from last year, and we still categorize him as being at moderate risk for arm/shoulder surgery in the next five years. Because he's on the Yankees, though, he has access to great coaching and support processes, so hopefully he'll be able to improve those mechanics. Fantasy advice: He's a prime target in keeper leagues. Someone is going to draft him early, probably too early. If he drops down to that 13 or 14 round range, grab him for the upside.

Second baseman Robinson Cano looks good early. His swing has some minor glitches, but overall he's ahead of where he was last spring. He is happy and looks like he's settling into a nice comfort zone. That could be dangerous for the rest of the AL East. Cano still has some growth in the power department. He is learning the opposing pitchers as fast as he's learning his swing. He also represents the Yankees with class. Robby is young kid and a classy pro. He reminds me of a young Torii Hunter. Fantasy advice: Another great keeper option. He's only 25 and already has 3 full seasons under his belt. His percentages dropped in 2007, but that hides the fact that his second half numbers were superb: .343/.396/.557, with 13 home runs and 57 RBIs. Draft early and except .325/.380/.535, with 24 home runs and 110 RBIs.

Kei Igawa has had a difficult time throwing strikes. He wasn't able to consistently repeat his arm-slot. Fantasy advice: Danger, Will Robinson. Stay away.

Alan Horne has shown he has a good arm. The 25-year-old starter threw his fastball between 91-93 mph and has good movement. The problem was that he couldn't get the ball down in the zone. More importantly, he looked young with bad body language. Fantasy advice: No need to draft, but if Moose and/or one of the rookies (Ian Kennedy or Phil Hughes) start to struggle, check to see how Horne is doing in the minors.

Jeff Marquez is another big, right-handed starting pitcher. He also had a good arm, featuring a hard fastball and curve - and he also has issues with his mechanics. The 23-year-old maxed out last year in AA, and he needs another year or two of development before he's ready for the big leagues. Fantasy advice: Check in next year.

It's not uncommon during Spring Training to hear players' voice concerns about playing time. The Angels have a somewhat different issue in that they have two star players wanting to play defense. Garret Anderson and Vladimir Guerrero both want to play defense and don't want to DH. Throw in the fact that the Angels have an abundance of outfielders in camp, and you have the early signs of discontent. Fantasy advice: Guerrero will get his at bats, so there's no impact upon him. Anderson is no longer a good starter for your fantasy team. It's better to fill your bench with high-potential players such as Joey Votto than steady, average performers such as Anderson.

By Mike Pagliarulo of www.DugoutCentral.com