Syed Talib
Updated on: October 9, 2024 9:50 am GMT
Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Watch: Key Players to Boost Your Roster
As the fantasy baseball season enters its final stretch, savvy managers are on the lookout for hidden gems that can elevate their lineups. In this week’s Waiver Wire Watch, we spotlight a handful of standout players making waves and available in a significant number of leagues. Whether you’re dealing with injuries or simply seeking a hot bat, these selections could provide the edge needed for success in your fantasy league.
Victor Robles: An Outfielder on Fire
Victor Robles has been an unexpected spark for the Seattle Mariners since his mid-season trade from the Washington Nationals. Currently rostered in only 9% of CBS Sports leagues, Robles sports an impressive .312 batting average alongside a .372 on-base percentage, contributing to a remarkable 143 wRC+ this season. His performance has included four home runs and 19 stolen bases, making him a dual-threat in the lineup.
Sustained Production and Lineup Position
Robles’ success is backed by solid plate discipline—reflecting a 17.9% strikeout rate—and a high .370 BABIP. Despite questions about the sustainability of his numbers, his regular placement atop the Mariners’ lineup significantly increases his run-scoring opportunities. Since July 26, he has started the majority of his games as the leadoff hitter, where he has posted a batting average of .289, adding three home runs and 11 stolen bases to his totals. Given his combined speed and power potential, fantasy managers are encouraged to consider him as a viable roster addition.
Ty France: A Value Play in Deeper Leagues
Another player to consider is Ty France, who has found newfound life with the Cincinnati Reds after transferring from the Seattle Mariners. Currently available in approximately 93% of leagues, France has seen a marked improvement in production since his move to Cincinnati.
Improved Numbers and Consistency
France is batting .344 with a stellar .403 on-base percentage and a .911 OPS. His ability to minimize strikeouts—only 9% in his plate appearances with the Reds—showcases his offensive capabilities. Notably, his hard-hit rate has soared to 46.0%, a significant increase compared to his previous seasons. With limited home games left for the Reds, France could prove to be a strategic addition as an infielder in deeper leagues.
Randal Grichuk: The Diamondbacks’ Hidden Gem
Randal Grichuk, now making a mark with the Arizona Diamondbacks, is another player worth a second look. With a current roster percentage of just 4%, Grichuk has established himself as a crucial hitter in a high-scoring lineup.
Riding the Wave of Success
Since July 7, Grichuk has confidently stepped up to the plate, showcasing a .274 batting average and a .330 on-base percentage while hitting six home runs. His numbers reflect a .263 ISO and a robust 45.8% hard-hit rate, displaying his efficiency against both right- and left-handed pitching. As part of a successful Diamondbacks team, he can provide substantial value for fantasy managers looking to fortify their outfield.
Patrick Corbin: Streaming Option for Fantasy Pitchers
Pitchers are also key targets on the waiver wire, and Patrick Corbin, currently rostered at 9%, presents an intriguing streaming option for fantasy owners who need a reliable arm.
A Resurgence in Form
Though Corbin has struggled over the past few seasons, recent performances indicate a turnaround. In his last four outings, he has maintained a solid showing by not allowing more than two earned runs and meeting the strikeout threshold of six or more batters in consecutive games. His upcoming matchups against teams ranked lower in scoring provide further opportunity for success. With matchups against the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Miami Marlins on the horizon, he could be just what fantasy owners need to bolster their pitching rotations.
Final Thoughts
As the season reaches its peak, finding the right players to bolster your roster is essential. The featured players—Victor Robles, Ty France, Randal Grichuk, and Patrick Corbin—offer exciting opportunities for managers in search of value on the waiver wire. With only a few weeks remaining in the season, making strategic moves now can contribute significantly to your fantasy success.
If you want to learn more about fantasy baseball, check out CBS Sports Fantasy. You can find helpful tips and the newest news as the game gets more exciting!
