The top tier of fantasy aces is conspicuously thin this year, as various injuries (whether it be Clayton Kershaw's ailing back, Max Scherzer's troublesome knuckle, or David Price balky elbow) and performances uncertainties (Chris Sale's move to Fenway, Jake Arrieta's possible decline) make shopping in that elite tier a little less glamorous than it has been in recent years.

Fortunately, the middle rounds are reliably rich with upside and ace potential. Here are five starters available outside of the early rounds of drafts who carry the upside to anchor a strong fantasy rotation.