We know catcher is a weak position in fantasy baseball, and the middle infield slots aren't exactly deep. That's commonly known as position scarcity, and sometimes the order of who goes where in a fantasy draft is dictated by this. I admit, if two players of equal statistical stature are available, and one plays shortstop and the other outfield, it's pretty obvious the direction I'll go.
But at the other end of position scarcity is a perceived bias against those who play no position at all. They are the designated hitters, and in most drafts these guys fill only the utility slot on your team. In some leagues, a position is assigned, the one they'd most likely play, and it's generally first base. Not everyone wants to fill that utility spot so early. If you're in a 23-round draft, and you've filled every slot, it's nice to have the flexibility to choose any hitter you like, from catcher to outfielder.
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Eric Karabell
