If the creature would enter the battlefield with no +1/+1 counters on it, it enters with one +1/+1 counter on it
This is a serious threat to decks that like to gain, and then hide behind, crazy amounts of health, and if Alpharael is buffed, the actual attack can be a game-winner in the right conditions
Merlin Crab Merlin Goat Merlin Mouse or Rabbit (The only animals he was that fit here alphabetically) Merlin Shapeshifter (Confimed in the deck) Merlin Squirrel (Fits sleeved booster image)
Yep, more expensive, not less
If you want a constructed deck with some good tramplers, check out the Witherbloom Witchcraft Commander deck (Amazon link)
6th Place from 18,000.00 Euro (Poor) And here we are at what most people think is the most expensive MTG card: The Alpha Black Lotus