In the ever-evolving landscape of fantasy baseball, the waiver wire is a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. As we navigate the final stretch of the season, it's crucial to identify players who can provide a boost to your roster and potentially propel your team to victory. This week, we delve into the waiver wire, focusing on players who are likely to be available in most leagues and some deep league options. We'll also explore the most-added players across major sites and provide insights on which players to add and which to leave on the wire.
Top Priority Players to Add
Joshua Baez (STL) – OF
Joshua Baez is a player who demands attention due to his high-variance potential. With a terrifying 67.7% contact rate in Triple-A, Baez has shown an impressive ability to make contact, despite a relatively low swing rate. However, it's his power and speed that truly stand out. In 103 games, he's hit 34 homers and stolen 21 bases, showcasing a well-rounded skill set. While his major league debut may be challenging, the potential for significant playing time in the remaining 40 games makes him an attractive option. Personally, I think Baez is a must-add for those seeking high-variance prospects, but it's essential to manage expectations, especially against tough matchups.
Brandon Pfaadt (ARI) – SP
Brandon Pfaadt has been a revelation since returning to the Diamondbacks' rotation. In 9 starts, he boasts a 1.15 ERA and 0.88 WHIP, with 7 wins. While his performance may not be sustainable, his FIP and xERA suggest a sub-3.00 ERA. The catch? Pfaadt struggles to generate whiffs, resulting in a poor swinging strike rate. However, his refusal to issue free passes keeps his K-BB rate respectable. In my opinion, Pfaadt is a solid streaming option, especially in leagues where ratios are valued, despite the potential for a few more strikeouts.
Abimelec Ortiz (WSN) – 1B
Abimelec Ortiz is a power bat with a solid approach. With a .286/.306/.657 start to life in the majors, he averages a 91.3 mph exit velocity and barrels nearly 15% of his batted balls. What sets Ortiz apart is his contact rate, which has been consistently high in Triple-A. He's making contact on 82.4% of his swings, an excellent number for someone with his swing speed. While he's not walking much, his chase rate is very good, and as he continues to punish hittable pitches, the walks will come. Personally, I think Ortiz is a lower-variance option compared to Baez, offering a higher floor and lower ceiling.
Yahoo and ESPN Most Added Players
Ian Seymour (RAY)
Ian Seymour has been a pleasant surprise in the Rays' rotation. Despite a 4.08 ERA, his ERA estimators suggest a mid-3.00s ERA. Seymour has been much better as a starter, with a 26.5% K-BB rate compared to 15.3% in relief. He's averaging over 5 innings in his last 10 appearances, making him a solid streaming option. In my opinion, Seymour is a must-add for those seeking reliable starters, especially with his favorable matchup against the Orioles.
Sean Manaea (NYM)
Sean Manaea has been on a heater, with 25 innings of 2.16 ERA/1.20 WHIP baseball in his last four starts. While the Nationals' offense is formidable, Manaea's recent performance makes him a streaming option worth considering. Personally, I think Manaea is a great choice for those seeking a reliable streamer, especially with his favorable matchup against the Nationals.
Reid Detmers (LAA)
Reid Detmers has a favorable matchup against the Royals, hosting them in LA. With a 20.4% K-BB rate and estimators better than his 4.00 ERA, Detmers is a solid streaming option. The main concern is the supporting cast, but the Royals aren't exactly a powerhouse either. In my opinion, Detmers is a safe choice for those seeking a streaming option.
Deep League Players to Watch
Brett Bateman (TOR) – OF
Brett Bateman is the primary beneficiary of the Daulton Varsho trade in Toronto. He's playing nearly every day, primarily in center field but also in each corner outfield position. Bateman is a slap-and-run outfielder with a history of stealing bases in the minors. While he's chasing everything he sees, his minor league chase rate was just 20.7% in Triple-A. If you're missing the glory days of 2015 Ben Revere, Bateman could be a sneaky steals play down the stretch. Personally, I think Bateman is a hidden gem for those seeking steals potential.
