Fantasy source. (TSNumber .129).

Opponents' batting average against Derek Lowe, the lowest among starters in the majors. Lowe, who threw a no-hitter last Saturday against Tampa Bay, has allowed only 15 hits while facing 116 batters in 35 1/3 innings.

Even the most talented prospects sometimes take a few years to realize their potential. In some cases the key is regular playing time, and in others it's a matter of maturity--physical as well as mental. Padres first baseman Phil Nevin emerged as a star in 2000 after years of failed chances and poor choices, and Expos shortstop Orlando Cabrera excelled last year after a slow start to his career. Now, a new crop of players is ready to take the big step this year.

Juan Encarnacion, OF, Reds: He's adapting nicely to Cincinnati after his career went stagnant in Detroit. Though Encarnacion, 26, never will be known for plate discipline or on-base percentage, his power has re-emerged since leaving Comerica Park. He could have 15-20 steals.

Torii Hunter, OF, Twins: Now one of the Twins' best players, Hunter was on the outs in the organization just a few years ago, when he hit .231 at Class AA. Riding last year's breakthrough, he's using slightly improved on-base skills to complement his power-speed combination. Hunter, 26, won't hit .300, but 30 homers and 20 steals are likely.

Paul Konerko, 1B, White Sox: Entering this season, he was considered a bust in some circles because he hadn't become a top power hitter and run producer. But Konerko, 26, is emerging as one of the A.L.'s top sluggers in his fourth season as a regular. A major obstacle for Konerko will be his performance in May: He's a career .197 hitter in the month.

Junior Spivey, 2B, Diamondbacks: Taking advantage of Jay Bell's calf injury, Spivey, 27, appears to have locked up the second base job. Though he never was considered a top prospect, Spivey's offensive maturation has meant power (mainly doubles), production and stolen bases. He should keep his spot unless his defense becomes a liability. He had four errors in his first 22 games.

Brett Tomko, RHP, Padres: Tomko, 29, arrived at spring training in great shape and easily won a spot in the rotation. Now he finally is emerging as a front-line starter. A move to his hometown helped boost Tomko's confidence in his above-average stuff, which includes a 93-mph fastball. Don't be surprised if he gets 12 wins and 170 strikeouts and has a 3.25 ERA.