With just days left in the season, here's a focused look at the key players to add to your fantasy rosters and maximize points during pivotal matchups.
As the baseball season nears its end, fantasy managers are scrambling to optimize their rosters for the final games. With only a couple of matches left for several teams, selecting the right players can greatly impact your standings. This edition focuses on identifying players who not only have favorable matchups but also possess the potential for significant contributions. Let’s dive into the top waiver wire picks you need to target.
Top Priority Players to Add
With teams winding down their schedules, it's essential to prioritize players likely to see ample playing time. Some teams, including the Red Sox, Orioles, Yankees, and Cubs, are slated for just one game remaining this season. Consequently, now is the time to cut ties with marginal players from these teams for players actively competing. For instance, Pete Crow-Armstrong offers more value in a single appearance than lesser options from these squads.
Thirteen teams will face a mix of right and left-handed pitchers in their last two games, including Toronto, Cleveland, Kansas City, Minnesota, and Houston. For players on these teams, careful consideration of platoon matchups and performance splits is critical. Kansas City’s situation is particularly fluid, as they could encounter two right-handers if Parker Messick skips a start in anticipation of the playoffs.
White Sox Righties
The Chicago White Sox aim to make the most of their last two games against left-handed pitchers Jose Quintana and Kyle Freeland. A potential gem could be Randal Grichuk, who only appears in 1% of Yahoo leagues, showcasing a stellar 1.016 OPS against lefties this season. Meanwhile, Brenton Doyle (28% rostered) brings moderate potential with a 91 wRC+ against southpaws but offers an added dimension of speed, having already contributed to 72 steals this season.
Don’t overlook Braden Montgomery, rostered in just 6% of leagues, who has performed decently against lefties (119 wRC+) albeit struggling against right-handers.
Athletics and Astros Hitters
With their final games set in a hitter-friendly ballpark, players from the Athletics and Astros require serious consideration. The pitching matchups could favor hitters, especially against less dominant arms like Ronel Blanco or Brady Basso. Look for Joshua Kuroda-Grauer, only 2% rostered, who has shown versatility and just returned from the IL, making him a valuable pickup if he’s rewarded with playing time.
Don’t skip former standout Henry Bolte, rostered in 42% of leagues, who’s been electric at home with a .316 batting average, paired with 6 homers and 13 steals this season. Yainer Diaz is also worth grabbing, as he brings a .314 batting average over the last half of the season and is available in 44% of leagues.
Marlins Hitters
The Marlins face the Atlanta Braves, who have secured their playoff spot, which could influence their pitching strategy. Expect Brent Suter and JR Ritchie to take the mound. Consider Griffin Conine, rostered in just 8% of leagues, delivering a notable 131 wRC+ and 18 homers across 92 games, while Heriberto Hernández has provided significant power upside with 24 homers and 13 steals, available in 20% of leagues.
Most-Added Players on Yahoo and ESPN
The most-added players across Yahoo and ESPN are predominantly streaming options, reflecting the urgency of fantasy managers in the final stretch. Pay attention to pitchers like Kade Anderson (most-added on ESPN) and his opponent, Ryan Johnson, who’s also found a place on the add list. Both are slated to pitch in Seattle, a positive environment given the lackluster offenses of both teams.
Davis Martin is another attention-grabber starting against a struggling Rockies lineup. Despite earlier season challenges, he’s healed nicely down the stretch. While he has a good shot at a win, his ratios may still fluctuate due to inconsistent performances.
Watch out for Griffin Jax, who faces the Phillies amid their own playoff battles. If he continues his trends of five-inning outings, he could still be an effective play even if limited in innings. Meanwhile, Trey Yesavage should raise concerns, as his return from injury hasn’t yet positioned him for significant innings—making him a risky pick this late in the game.
Fantasy playoffs come down to careful planning and smart pickups in the closing days. Evaluate matchups closely, act fast, and secure those key players to strengthen your roster.
