Josh Donaldson could be a central piece to a team’s playoff run both in fantasy and reality.
The final week of the fantasy baseball regular season is here. If you are in the hunt for a playoff spot and need that one piece to get you over the top, here are some waiver wire suggestions.
1. Josh Donaldson, 3B, Blue Jays: Donaldson was cleared to return, playing for the first time since May 29th on Tuesday. Donaldson could be traded between now and Friday but regardless of what happens, Donaldson is a worthwhile addition if he is on your wire.
2. Derek Holland, SP, Giants: The Giants have been reeling of late but Holland has been one of the few bright spots in their rotation. Holland won’t go deep into games but he will pile up the strikeouts and keep opposing offenses to three runs or less.
3. Alex Cobb, SP, Orioles: Cobb has made six straight quality starts. If you are looking for another starter, give Cobb a long look. He is widely available. Cobb is owned in 24% of yahoo leagues and 17% of ESPN leagues.
4. Mark Melancon, RP, Giants: As I mentioned earlier, the Giants are struggling as a team but there are still some quality pieces on the team that can help you in fantasy. Melancon has converted his two save opportunities last week and appears to be the closer moving forward.
5. Greg Allen, OF, Indians: Allen has been a solid cross category producer for the past three weeks. Allen steals bags and hits for power which makes him an appealing bench addition down the stretch.
6. Tyler O’Neil, OF, Cardinals: O’Neil strikes out a ton (38% strikeout rate over his first 92 plate appearances) but he has also homered in three of his last four games. Very similar to Joey Gallo in his approach.
7. Luke Voit, 1B, Yankees: Voit had a big series over the weekend against the Orioles and with Greg Bird slumping badly, Voit is in line for more playing time and a chance to produce more.
8. Mike Minor, SP, Rangers: Minor has been very good since the All-Star break. He is holding opposing hitters to a .181 batting average and has struck 25 hitters in 29 2/3 innings. He is widely available in yahoo and ESPN leagues, so if you need a starter, grab him.
9. Ryan O’Hearn, 1B, Royals: O’Hearn has found his power stroke with the Royals. He has hit 6 home runs in 69 at bats after hitting 11 dingers in 405 at bats in Triple A. O’Hearn could be a nice power piece on your bench.
10. Tyler Austin, 1B, Twins: Power bats are tough to find this time of year, especially corner infielders. Austin is getting regular playing time with the Twins and has been productive. If you are in a 12 team league, Austin might be worth looking at.