MLS Fantasy, Week One: Velasquez, Findley, Watson-Siriboe top RSL picks

Top three picks

Sebastian Velasquez ... $7.0 ... he's unsurprisingly bumped in price since 2012, but he also represents good value considering he is likely to see significant minutes in the first few weeks of the season. Javier Morales is nearly certain to be out after a recent surgery and Luis Gil has missed most of preseason, leaving Velasquez with an opportunity for real time.

Robbie Findley ... $7.5 ... perhaps undervalued at $7.5, Findley will be looking to show that he's not lost his ability during a two-year stint at Nottingham Forest in England. He also represents great value: He's cheaper than some low-performing forwards (ex: Findley costs as much as Brian Ching). This pick could provide value while leaving cap space open for more glamorous picks elsewhere. However, there's a slight concern that he might not be 90-minutes fit — but he could be that impact player RSL has desperately needed.

Kwame Watson-Siriboe ... $5.0 ... a fine value as a defender, he'll be likely to start alongside Chris Schuler to start the season as Nat Borchers is absent through injury. There is a slight risk in selecting a defender, because if last season's woes against San Jose Earthquakes continue, it'll undoubtedly lead to few points.

Outside picks

Khari Stephenson ... $6.5 ... If Khari's to start against his old side, San Jose Earthquakes, there's always a chance he'll exact some sort of revenge on his ex-teammates — or something like that. Long shots galore, Stephenson. If Velasquez doesn't start, I suspect Stephenson will.

Chris Schuler ... $5.5 ... a fine defender and an undoubted starter for Sunday, he's not expensive (like most defenders) and, should RSL perform well, would garner good points.

Remember: Defenders receive extra points for "good defending" - clearances, blocks and interceptions (as a set), and recovered balls - while attackers receive extra points for "positive play" - crosses, key passes and big chances created.

Dangerous picks

Don't pick Nat Borchers, Chris Wingert or Javier Morales, as none of the three are set to play in the opener. You'll also want to avoid selecting players very unlikely to play. You know who these players are — and that includes Olmes Garcia for now.

New additions

Khari Stephenson ... $6.5

Josh Saunders ... $5.5

Olmes Garcia ... $7.5

Carlos Salcedo ... $4.0

Join and Discuss

If you haven't already joined the RSL Soapbox fantasy league on MLSSoccer.com, why not? Have at it. The code, if you'd rather use that than a link, is 193-1687.

As always, you're encouraged to discuss your team in the comments. Who have you selected for week one?

Remember, changes to your team must be made by 1:45 p.m. MST on Saturday.