With the first half of the 2012 season behind us, we’ve seen a lot of disappointments, a few surprises, and a lot of surprises when it comes to fantasy baseball. Let’s look at some receivers that have caught the attention of Fantasy owners in the first half and what we can expect for the rest of the season.

Carlos Santana (CLE)–

The Indians catcher topped many preseason charts at the position. However, he has sadly underperformed so far this season. He has much higher offensive potential than most receivers at the position and his combination of power and patience made him a good pick to start the season. With only 5 home runs in the first half, he will have to improve a bit to begin to justify his position in the draft. With at-bats at first base and designated hitter, as well as behind the plate, it’s a good bet for racking up plate appearances (and potential for good counting stats). Expect a great second half.

Carlos Ruiz (PHI)–

Sometimes you can predict a breakup season, sometimes you get caught off guard. Few (read: no one) expected Ruiz to be the best-hitting catcher in fantasy at the All-Star break. We’ve come to expect a decent average from him since 2010, but the counting stats are a real bonus. With Chase Utley and Ryan Howard back in the Phillies’ lineup, you should expect Ruiz to complete his career year. Add in the fact that he traditionally excels in the second half and Ruiz may very well stay in first place among fantasy receivers in 2012.

Jonathan Lucroy (MIL)–

The Brewers backstop was the best hitting catcher in the majors when he fell with a rare off-field injury in late May. He should be on a minor league rehab assignment in late July with a view to returning in early August. Keep saving it and return it to your row when you return. He has taken the next step in his career progression this season and is able to add some real value to fantasy.

JP Arencibia (TOR)–

Arencibia has certainly emerged as a consistent offensive player. Low batting average, many strikeouts and a home run every 5.2 games. There were some rumors earlier in the season that rookie catching phenom Travis D’Arnaud could get the call sometime this season and challenge Arencibia for playing time. However, with D’Arnaud likely out of season with a serious knee injury, both playing time and consistent power can be expected from JP for the remainder of 2012.

Kurt Suzuki (OAK)–

At the start of the year, Suzuki was a fairly consistent player who could be relied upon for a mediocre batting average (around 250) but with a decent 15-homer ability and the opportunity to generate RBIs when he was in the middle of the field. order. With Josh Willingham and Hideki Matsui out of the offseason, Suzuki had the opportunity to return to playing a race producer role with the Athletics. It has not happened. He’s been brutal offensively and recently lost his starting job to rookie Derek Norris. Even though Norris has had his troubles at the plate recently, expect Suzuki to go through the pines for most of the second half. Avoid it.

Catcher is always a difficult position to fill effectively for Fantasy owners. The second half of 2012 should be no different. But there are some players worth pointing out for sure. Good luck!