Mariners Robinson Cano breaks hand: Fantasy Fallout

DETROIT, MI - MAY 13: Robinson Cano #22 of the Seattle Mariners sits on the bench with his right hand in a cast after getting hit on the hand and leaving the game against the Detroit Tigers during the third inning at Comerica Park on May 13, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - MAY 13: Robinson Cano #22 of the Seattle Mariners sits on the bench with his right hand in a cast after getting hit on the hand and leaving the game against the Detroit Tigers during the third inning at Comerica Park on May 13, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /
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Robinson Cano has suffered a broken hand, leaving the Mariners and fantasy owners reeling. What is the fantasy fallout?

The Mariners sit third in a stacked AL West, yet their playoff aspirations took a big hit when the news struck that Robinson Cano is hurt. Now that he is diagnosed with a broken hand, what is the next step for fantasy owners and the Mariners?

Robinson Cano is undoubtedly one of the best second basemen in baseball and continues to build a Hall of Fame resume. He was off to his regular solid start in 2018, posting a .289/4 HR/23 RBI/.827 OPS line over 38 games. He is still a force at the plate, and fantasy owners have banked on him as an insert and forget player in the lineup.

There are no players that cam match Cano’s production and durability, as Cano will miss significant time in his career for the first time ever. The Mariners in-house options are bleak. The two next second baseman in the system, Taylor Motter, and Gordon Beckham, are clearly not going to move the needle for fantasy owners.

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There is also the intriguing case of Dee Gordon. Gordon, a former All-Star second baseman, is making the smooth shift to center. The Mariners have yet to completely dismiss the idea, but he could make the move back to second if no internal options can step up.

The MI waiver wire pool is weak as usual. Cano is a stud and it is not as though replacements exist that can replicate him. In terms of power, options such as Brad Miller and Jedd Gyorko could help fill the power void.

For those looking to play the hot hand, we listed Alen Hanson as a potential waiver wire dart throw as the former prospect is off to a hot start. Another possible add could be the Rays’ Matt Duffy, whose solid AVG and counting stats would soften the blow.

Next: Fantasy Baseball 2018: Week 7 SP Waiver Wire Adds

Robinson Cano’s loss leaves a huge hole for the Mariners and fantasy owners. The broken bone is right under the pinky, so it is a tricky spot. Hopefully, the timeline can be shortened and he can get back soon.

Keep an eye on the waiver wire.