Although most fantasy baseball owners look to first base and the outfield when drafting players to provide offensive punch to their rosters, there are some very viable options in the middle of the infield as well. A common strategy in regard to second base is for owners to forgo the position until the later rounds and hope to draft a serviceable player to fill the position. However, if you are able to get one of the top players at second base, not only will you help your overall fantasy baseball performance, you will also help shore up a position at which other owners may be weak. In other words, there are lots of good outfielders and first basemen available in the later rounds. Whether considering fantasy keepers or draft picks, keep these top ten fantasy baseball second basemen in mind:

1)     Robinson Cano (NYY) –

Hitting in the middle of an always potent line up, Cano is as close to money in the bank as you’ll find in fantasy baseball. His splits show he is a consistent performer regardless of the situation. If the Yankees add any other offensive pieces in the off season, it will only increase Cano’s value.

2)     Dustin Pedroia (BOS) –

Putting the injury-plagued 2010 season behind him went a long way to quelling critics who were wary of his rambunctious playing style. He delivered an MVP-worthy season in 2011 and is a leader on a perennial contender. He also increased his power and patience this season which is a great sign moving forward.

3)     Ian Kinsler (TEX) –

Kinsler’s blend of skills at the position sets him apart. If he could ever hit for average away from Arlington, he would be atop the list. That being said, there is nothing wrong with a .255 BA when it comes with a 30-30 season attached to it.

4)     Rickie Weeks (MIL) –

An All-Star at mid-season, Weeks once again fell victim to his injury-prone ways in the second half. It’s all about staying healthy for Weeks. Draft him hoping for 20 HR and 50 RBI. Anything else you get is gravy.

5)     Dan Uggla (ATL) –

What a year. After a first half which saw him hit well below the Mendoza line, Uggla rebounded with a 33 game hit streak and finished with his customary 30 HR season. For power (and little else), “Ugly Dan” is your man.

6)     Brandon Phillips (CIN) –

Few second basemen can match Phillips’ 5X5 best but he always seems to leave you wanting more. With his stolen bases on the decline and his HR totals steady (expect 20), he is a solid, if unspectacular pick.

7)     Ben Zobrist (TB) –

‘Zorilla’ rebounded this past season (albeit not quite to his 2009 level). Poor offensive stats at home held him back from having an even better season. After 3 seasons, we kind of know what to expect from him: .275/20/80. You could do worse.

8)     Howie Kendrick (LAA) –

After getting on base consistently in the first half (.302/.360/.462), Kendrick regressed after the break (.263/.310/.466). Maybe he will never be the future batting champion everyone thought he may become but he did increase his power in 2011 (18 HR), so all is not lost.

9)     Chase Utley (PHI) –

Utley’s lack of power (11 HR) this season was blamed on his inability to condition his leg muscles due to his recurring knee issues. Injuries (47 games missed in 2011) and poor production have knocked Utley down the list. There is still no better second baseman in the game but Utley simply cannot be counted upon to provide a healthy and productive season at this point of his career.

10) Jemile Weeks (OAK) –

Weeks showed some productivity with a .303 BA and 22 SB. His steal rate is a little concerning (11 CS) but with a full year at the top of the Athletics’ line up, Weeks is a nice option for fantasy owners. Just don’t expect the late season pop he showed in his bat to translate into big power numbers in 2011.

When considering fantasy baseball second basemen for 2012, these ten players should definitely be taken into account. Consider them “second to none” for your fantasy team.