Zach Sanders of Rotographs has an awesome method for distilling fantasy value down to one number. The method uses z-scores to determine how far players are above or below average in each fantasy category in terms of standard deviations. For example, a player with a z-score of 2.00 in steals is exactly two standard deviations above league average in that category. Once you calculate the z-score for each category, you add them all up to give you each player’s fantasy value above average (FVAAz). Below is a chart showing the 20 hitters from each league that would deserve a spot on the 5×5 All-Star team using production from the five standard roto categories this year. In addition to the starters, there is a backup from each position along with three additional hitters from each league to round out an even 20.

Who do you think is the most surprising name on this list? Charlie Blackmon being a starting outfielder is certainly something no one saw coming. Hell, Dee Gordon being a stud is also quite a shock. Anything else surprise you more?

What about snubs? Anyone that should be on the list that isn’t? The first name left off on the AL side was Brandon Moss, and it was Justin Morneau on the NL side.

This list also illustrates how weak catcher is as a position. It’s always one of, if not the most shallow position. And here we have just one catcher checking in as above average. That’s what happens when the five highest drafted catchers all tank.