MLS Fantasyland: Defender Preview

This is where you can really steal some good fantasy points in MLS Fantasy Manager. Defenders are MUCH cheaper than their other outfield counterparts, and with some of the upper echelon defenders scoring big amounts of fantasy points, you'll be wise to spend some money on stud defenders.

THE STUDS

Aurelien Collin/Matt Besler ($6m). No, you don't get both of them. However, the tandem TIED for the most fantasy points by a defender last year with 179. There's a lot that comes into play, but it's mostly their amazing quality, their ability to stay healthy and on the field, and the outstanding chemistry with keeper Jimmy Nielsen. Don't even think about not putting one of these two on your team in 2013.

Bobby Boswell ($6m). Only one point shy of the SKC duo last year, Bobby Boswell had a great year for Houston. His strength, health, and stellar defending all came together in a breakout fantasy year. While Geoff Cameron no longer dons the orange kit, Boswell will continue to stand out and produce.

Jay DeMerit/Lee Young-Pyo ($6m). Both Vancouver defensive stalwarts eclipsed the 150-point barrier in fantasy last year, and with the Whitecaps continuing to improve it's hard to see them not duplicating the feat in 2013. Lee also will add a few assists (he had 4 last year) to give you a few extra points, which is always a nice boost. While DeMerit has his share of injury issues, there's no denying that he's more than capable of putting up huge fantasy efforts when healthy.

THE NEXT TIER

Seth Sinovic ($6m). Can he do it again? Sinovic had a monster year last year in fantasy for a left back racking up 159 points which was good enough for fifth among defenders in 2012. With Sporting Kansas City getting even stronger in 2013, it's a really good possibility all four regular defenders will eclipse the 150 point mark in fantasy soccer.

Drew Moor ($5.5m). Just as steady as you can be from the Colorado veteran defender. Moor was top 8 in fantasy last year among defenders with 154 points, and it's his ability to score the odd goal (he had 3 in 2012) as well as staying healthy (he played in all 34 games) that keeps him among the top defenders in fantasy. Remember, finishing games is a big way to score points, even if you're not contributing on the score sheet.

Brandon McDonald ($5.5m). Last year's #4 defender with 167 points, McDonald showed he could not only perform as the team's defensive backbone (played in 33 of 34 games), he proved he could add a little going forward too. His 2 goals and 4 assists make him a very attractive option in fantasy for a little bit less money.

THE SLEEPERS

Andrew Farrell/A.J. Soares ($5.0m). Two Revs, valued the same, but good options for different reasons. A.J. Soares is poised to have his breakout year after faltering slightly in 2012. His game has looked strong in preseason, and it's slowly becoming HIS team. Expect a higher total than his 136 in 2013. Farrell is an interesting option as well. The #1 overall draft pick has shown strong defensive skills, but it's his ability to create from the back that has raised eyebrows. With the possibility of earning you some assists or maybe even a goal or two, Farrell is one to watch.

Josh Williams ($5m). Williams led the team in fantasy points by a defender in 2012, and with Columbus becoming such a defensive stalwart, it's possible that he will improve on his performance in 2013. While teammate Chad Marshall will certainly get more attention, for $1m less you can have a player who will be close in production.

Jeff Parke ($5m). New team, no problem for the veteran Parke. Joining Philadelphia from Seattle after his 149 point performance in 2012, Parke will be joining an improving Union defense, and should contribute at the same level he did in Seattle.

TOMORROW! We kick it into high gear, and get you all ready to go with the midfielders AND strikers in 2013! Check back tomorrow to make sure YOUR team is ready to go on Saturday afternoon!