8 Geovany Soto, C

Rangers catcher Geovany Soto hit his first home run of the year Thursday, a three-run shot off Justin Verlander as part of a seven-run third inning. It was the only hit in four trips to the plate for Soto, who boosted his batting average to .176 in the Rangers win.

A power-hitting former All-Star catcher just got handed a bunch of playing time in a hitter's paradise.

This is the type of situation Fantasy owners love to stumble upon on the waiver wire, and it's taking place in Texas. Geovany Soto is about to take on the majority of the Rangers' playing time behind the plate with A. J. Pierzynski headed to the disabled list.

Should Fantasy owners pounce?

Even in Soto's terrible 2012 season, he still hit 11 home runs in 324 at bats. The power is obviously still there, even if he has no home runs yet this season. Hopefully, an everyday role can get him going, as this is a guy who slugged double-digit home runs five years in a row.

Soto's horrible batting average last season will scare Fantasy owners away, but that also was aided by an ugly .222 batting average on balls in play. If Soto can take advantage of a favorable offensive environment and get his batting average closer to his .248 career mark, he could provide a short-term boost while Pierzynski heals.

It's a risk, given his recent history, but Soto might be worth a look on the waiver wire over the next few weeks, especially if you're weak at the catcher position. 

Rangers catcher Geovany Soto is in the team's starting lineup Monday against the Cubs.

Soto will hit sixth against Cubs starter Scott Feldman. The start marks his first since May 1. A.J. Pierzynski is receiving a routine day off, and should return to the lineup Tuesday.