The Pirates horrific start really isn't all that horrific from a fantasy perspective. A number of events have conspired to make them an interesting opportunity for NL-only players, particularly those in deep leagues.

First, the Pirates have a number of interesting young players, even if they aren't generally top level prospects. That provides a number of players who could be sleepers. Second, they've been beset by injuries to their veterans. Half of the veteran infield is on the disabled list, and a third veteran has missed time this week. Finally, they're losing regularly, which provides chances for young players.

All of those events have led to a situation where half of the position players on the team are different from the opening day starters. Already, the opening day catcher, top prospect Ryan Doumit, has been replaced, seemingly permanently, by another rookie, Ronny Paulino. Paulino's superior defense makes him an option in deep mixed leagues, because he should continue to play every day. He has taken a while to develop as a hitter in the minors, so don't expect too much.

At first base, the Pirates were rewarded for keeping Craig Wilson this winter by an injury to Sean Casey. Wilson remains a prime candidate for a trade, particularly now that he has shown that his hand injury isn't a permanent problem.

At third base, Freddy Sanchez has stepped forward in Joe Randa's absence. It appeared Sanchez was making an argument for permanently surpassing Randa, when Jack Wilson got hurt. Sanchez moved to short, and Jose Bautista did a good job at third. Sanchez already proved to be an adequate NL-only fantasy option at third last year, but Bautista is the better prospect of the two.

Bautista also may be in the mix in center field. Chris Duffy, the primary center fielder in April, was sent down this week. He didn't take the demotion well, which should buy some time for Bautista and Nate McLouth to make an impact. McLouth platooned with Duffy, with poor results for both, before coming on over the past couple of weeks. He will probably platoon with Bautista now, with McLouth getting the majority of the starts.

Providing additional opportunity for youngsters is the terrible start of Jeromy Burnitz. If Bautista and McLouth play well enough, they could push him to the bench.

Similarly, Jose Castillo is by no means a sure thing at second base, despite some pop. He could still give way to Sanchez, with Bautista or Randa taking over third.

All of the uncertainty is a troubling development for the Pirates, but it's an opportunity for fantasy owners.