Fantasy Fallout: Can Socrates Brito Fill the Gap Left By A.J. Pollock's Injury?

Here are the fantasy repercussions of Arizona Diamondbacks CF A.J. Pollock's fractured right elbow:

Season-Long Redraft Leagues

Pollock was typically going somewhere in the second round of most standard, 12-team drafts. Obviously, his injury will come as a huge blow to rosters in the early going as he was expected to be a prime fixture for stolen bases, batting average, and some power.

While a clear timeline is not yet available, his recovery from elbow surgery could easily keep him off the field for an extended amount of time. His statement that he plans on coming back "at some point this season" is disconcerting. This will force fantasy owners to scramble much earlier than expected, considering a single game hasn't been played.

Rookie OF Socrates Brito seemed likely to get the nod in Pollock's stead, and should be targeted by all Pollock-owners as a stopgap unless they already drafted extensive outfield depth. Brito had a solid spring batting .303, scoring seven runs and stealing three bases. He projects as a decent speed option if the playing time is indeed there.

Alternatively, middle-infielder Chris Owings was shuffled out into center field after Pollock was injured, which may lead some to suspect he could get the call with Brito either returning to a bench role. Owings was penciled into the starting lineup for Saturday's preseason game, so proceed with caution. Both players could get extended looks.

The other option is to deal from depth in pitching or another offensive position to replace Pollock, though other owners will be asking for a king's ransom in return.

Keeper Leagues

According to MLB.com, Brito is the fourth ranked prospect in Arizona's system. He projects to hit for a decent average with speed to boot, making him an ideal replacement for Pollock if he can sustain consistent production. Owners need to keep expectations in check, since it's unlikely he produces anywhere close to Pollock's 2015 numbers.

For keeper league owners who decided to take a flier and stash Brito, this is an excellent development as he could represent an added piece of depth to rosters. Since he likely came cheap in auctions, or fell very late - if at all - in standard drafts, he won't be a burden to hold onto. If he's available, he should definitely be rostered.

The best case scenario is he plays his way into a starting role even when Pollock returns making him a valuable keeper into next season. Worst case is he falters, the Diamondbacks run with Owings and Brito gets dumped back into drafts for 2017.

Waiver Wire Targets

• While Brito and Owings are the obvious adds, Diamondbacks OF Yasmany Tomas is another intriguing target in the wake of Pollock's injury. He should be available in most leagues and has the added benefit of multi-position eligibility at third base. Brito initially stood a chance at taking his spot, but Tomas hit very well in the spring to earn his place.

• Since Pollock was a healthy source of stolen bases, that might be the prime category to target. One option could be Tigers OF Anthony Gose, who projects to hold the fort in center field until Cameron Maybin is activated in mid-April. It's a band-aid fix, but Pollock's injury is not going to be mitigated easily or with one fell swoop.

• Rays OF Kevin Kiermaier brings a steadier, more long-term solution to the table. He has speed, though not at the level of Gose, and he has some power, though not as much as Tomas.