With the first half of the 2012 season behind us, we’ve seen a lot of disappointment, a few surprises, and a lot of surprises when it comes to fantasy baseball. Let’s look at some receivers who have caught the attention of fantasy owners in the first half and what we can expect for the rest of the season.

Carlos Santana (CLE)–

The Indians catcher topped many preseason lists at the position. However, he has been woefully underperforming so far this season. He has much higher offensive potential than most receivers at the position, and his combination of power and patience made him a good pick early in the season. With just 5 homers in the first half, he’ll have to go one step further to start justifying his draft position. With at-bats at first base and designated hitter, as well as behind the plate, he’s a good bet to rack up plate appearances (and potential for good counting stats). He expects a great second half.

Carlos Ruiz (PHI)–

Sometimes you can predict a breakout season, sometimes you’re caught off guard. Very few (read: nobody) expected Ruiz to be the best-hitting catcher in Fantasy at the All-Star break. We’ve come to expect a decent average from him since 2010, but the counting stats are a real plus. With Chase Utley and Ryan Howard back in the Phillies’ lineup, you should expect Ruiz to complete the year of his career. Add in the fact that he traditionally excels in the second half and Ruiz could very well hold onto the top spot among fantasy receivers in 2012.

Jonathan Lucroy (MIL)–

The Brewers backup was the best hitting catcher in the majors when he suffered a freak injury off the field in late May. He should be on a minor league rehab assignment at the end of July with a view to returning in early August. He continues to hide it and bring it back to your line when he returns. He has taken the next step in his career progression this season and is capable of adding some real value in fantasy.

JP Arencibia (TOR)–

Arencibia has certainly developed into a consistent offensive player. Low batting average, lots of strikeouts and a home run every 5.2 games. There were some rumors earlier in the season that rookie receiving phenom Travis D’Arnaud might be called up at some point this season and challenge Arencibia for playing time. However, with D’Arnaud likely out for the season with a serious knee injury, both playing time and consistent power can be expected from JP throughout the remainder of 2012.

Kurt Suzuki (oak)–

Coming into the year, Suzuki was a fairly consistent player who could be relied on for a mediocre batting average (around .250) but with decent 15-homer ability and the opportunity to rack up RBIs when slotted in the middle. of the order. With Josh Willingham and Hideki Matsui out for the season, Suzuki was given the opportunity to return to a run producing role with the A’s. It hasn’t happened. He has been brutal offensively and recently lost his starting job to rookie Derek Norris. Even though Norris has had trouble with him at the plate recently, he expects Suzuki to go through the pins for most of the second half. Avoid it.

Catcher is always a tough position for fantasy owners to fill effectively. The second half of 2012 should be no different. But there are some players worth highlighting for sure. Good luck!