Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: 8/12/26
In the world of fantasy baseball, the waiver wire is a treasure trove of potential gems waiting to be discovered. It's a place where managers must be vigilant, making strategic decisions to bolster their rosters and gain an edge over their competitors. This week, we delve into the top players who are currently available on the waiver wire, offering a mix of established talent and promising prospects.
Top Priority Players to Add
Zack Gelof (ATH)
Zack Gelof is a name that has been making waves in the fantasy baseball community. After a strong rookie season in 2023, Gelof's performance took a dip in the following years, causing him to fall off the radar. However, a few adjustments to his swing this offseason have transformed him into a serious power and speed threat. With an impressive .832 OPS, 12 home runs, and 8 stolen bases in 68 games, Gelof is a player who deserves a spot on your roster. His ability to improve his contact on pitches in the zone and maintain good plate discipline makes him a valuable asset. The fact that he's widely available and has been dropped from over 70% of rosters to just 36% presents an opportunity for managers to snap him up before he disappears again.
Zac Veen (COL)
Zac Veen, on the other hand, is a player who has had a tumultuous journey. His MLB debut last season was underwhelming, with a .424 OPS over 12 games. However, Veen has been on a roll in Triple-A, boasting a 1.037 OPS, 24 home runs, and 18 stolen bases in 100 games. The challenge lies in translating this minor league success to the major leagues. Players like Jacob Gonzalez, who had a 1.097 OPS in Triple-A but only a .675 OPS in MLB games, serve as a reminder that the jump from Triple-A to the big leagues is not always seamless. Veen's potential is high, but his floor is uncertain. Managers must decide whether to wait and see or take a chance on his upside, especially with the limited options available at this stage of the season.
Yahoo! and ESPN Most Added Players
Yahoo!
Mitch Bratt: Bratt's performance against the Rockies earned him a quality start, but his value is limited. It's time to let him go back to the waiver wire.
Martín Pérez: Pérez delivered a six-inning shutout against the Mets and has a 2.96 ERA this season. With a two-start week ahead, he's a hold/add player.
Ryan Weathers: Weathers has been a standout pitcher, and his control issues seem to be a thing of the past. He's a hold/add for sure.
Cody Bradford: Bradford's quality start against the Angels, despite a lack of strikeouts, makes him a suitable streamer option.
Zack Gelof: As mentioned earlier, Gelof is a top priority pick-up, and his write-up provides further insight.
ESPN
Ryan Weathers: Weathers' control issues are behind him, making him a valuable addition.
Jac Caglianone: Caglianone's performance post-All-Star Break has been exceptional, and he should be added to all rosters.
Blake Snell: Snell's return to form is notable, and he's widely rostered, but adding him if available is still a wise decision.
Zack Gelof: Another mention of Gelof, emphasizing his value.
Martín Pérez: Pérez's performance is consistent, and his two-start week makes him a hold/add.
Streaming Pitchers
For a comprehensive breakdown of streaming pitchers, readers are directed to Nick Pollack's SP Streamer Ranking. The focus is on two pitchers for today and tomorrow:
Dustin May (MIL): May's recent good form and the Brewers' positive influence on his performance make him a potential addition.
Walbert Ureña (MIN): Ureña's recent start should not be overvalued, and managers should proceed with caution.
