With this investment, you better be getting what you paid for in fantasy baseball terms. That means runs, power, average, and maybe even some steals thrown in. One of this season’s first basemen, who will give you each of the previously mentioned, is Joey Votto, Cincinnati’s 27-year old star first basemen.

Votto had a breakout year in 2010, hitting .324 with 37 home runs, knocking in 113, scoring 106 runs, and swiping 16 bags. He was also one of only nine players in all of baseball to score 100 runs and record 100 RBI last year. 

In addition to his stellar 2010 season, Votto has had a steady progression in almost every statistic since 2008. Below are Votto’s lines from his 2008, 2009, and 2010 season.

Votto will certainly not continue at this pace, but he can definitely stay around his 2010 numbers. Most of the Reds’ last year supporting cast will be in the lineup in 2011, and with the emergence of Drew Stubbs and Jay Bruce as offensive threats in the outfield, Votto could potentially see an increase in runs and RBI this year.

To go along with his steadiness, Votto is a reliable fantasy stud year-round. His pre and post All-Star break numbers are chillingly consistent as you can see below: 

Votto exemplifies the top tier first baseman that is ideal for your fantasy lineup. Especially with the extra speed you get with him, Votto gives you consistency, confidence, and elite status with a first or second round selection.

Looking at Adrian Gonzalez, his move to Boston and Fenway Park is a great change. Basically, just getting out Petco Park is a plus for him. However, I like Votto significantly more than Adrian this year. Gonzalez is going within the first two rounds of drafts this year, but is less of an all-around player than Votto. Adrian has only reached the .300 AVG mark once in his career, and the .400 OBP mark once as well (Votto’s OBP in 2009 and 2010 were .414 and .424 respectively).

Gonzalez has also had minor shoulder discomfort coming off surgery. It is unlikely to impact him during the regular season, but a late start to spring training could mean a couple of more weeks than expected to settle into Boston’s lineup and get comfortable with his new surroundings and transition to the American league.

Votto has proved himself as a top three first baseman, and a sure thing top-10 player overall. Even if you see no increase in production from Votto this year, he is undoubtedly capable of putting up his 2010 numbers once again. 

I’m on “Team Votto” in 2011.