Ike Davis of the New York Mets is undervalued in fantasy drafts

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The New York Mets are in a terrible financial situation, but one of there players gives Met's fans at least a little hope. When Ike Davis was promoted to the majors last year, he did not disappoint. In 147 games, Davis hit .264 with 19 home runs and 71 RBI.

His current average draft position on ESPN is 211.7 and he should be going a lot higher (my first base rankings have him as the 15th first basemen). He is a nice sleeper first basemen to grab late in your draft.

This was his rookie season. At worst, I project him to hit .270 with 20-25 home runs. At best, Ike Davis could hit .290 with 28-32 home runs.

Many of Davis' splits show promise. In the first half of the year, Davis hit .258 with 11 home runs in 75 games. In the second half, Ike Davis' power regressed a bit and he only hit 8 homers, but his average was .270. At home, Ike Davis also did not disappoint. In the pitcher-friendly Citi Field, Ike Davis swatted 8 home runs and hit .271. On the Road, Davis hit 11 home runs and .257.

Ike Davis also finished the season strong for the New York Mets. He hit .330 with 4 home runs in September.

In his rookie season, Ike Davis also demonstrated more fantasy value than most first basemen in his willingness to run. He stole 3 bases in 5 attempts. Although this seems insignificant, most first basemen don't steal any bases.

The strategy I am using in a few leagues is drafting Justin Morneau of the Minnesota Twins as my starting first basemen in the 5th or 6th round. Then, as insurance for the injury-plagued Morneau, I pick Ike Davis late in the draft. Using this strategy, it gives you a solid backup first basemen. Also, if Morneau stays healthy, then Davis can be used in your utility slot.

Don't pass up the chance to get one of the most underrated sleepers.