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Bill Dubiel analyzes the top waiver wire pickups at second base and shortstop for week 18 of fantasy baseball. These MLB sleepers at middle infield should be owned.
So how’d you do in the first half? Whether you’re at the top of the heap or languishing in the basement, your team can always use a shot in the arm…or in this case, the roster. Here’s a look at some deep waiver wire sleepers at second base and shortstop that could be useful in the next few weeks. If they are still available on your league’s waiver wire, consider snatching them up. At the very least keep them on your radar…
Second Base (2B) Waiver Wire Options
Enrique (Kike) Hernandez (HOU)
Owned in 0.5% of Yahoo! leagues, 1% of Fleaflicker Leagues
The Astros are all about the call-ups this year, because let’s face it—in the ultra-competitive AL West, they aren’t going anywhere. With the utter failure of Jonathan Villar comes Kike Hernandez, the multi-talented middle infielder who’s been tearing up the minors in 2014. With a decent mix of power and speed, Hernandez has a chance at being an impact player in the home stretch, but temper your expectations. We can’t all be Yasiel Puig.
Baller Move: Add in deep leagues, monitor in all leagues
Josh Rutledge (COL)
Owned in 2.9% of Yahoo! leagues, 9% of Fleaflicker Leagues
With Tulo headed to the DL, a full-time spot has opened up for Rutledge at short. He’s most likely going to hit out of the two-hole, and should have plenty of opportunities to score runs. The power is limited, although not nonexistent, and he does have some speed. Ultimately this is a good player in a great position, and you could do a lot worse.
Editors Note: Rutledge had a huge game Friday night, with a HR and RBIs, proving just how good this waiver wire pickup can be!
Baller Move: Add in deep leagues
Shortstop (SS) Waiver Wire Options
Jordy Mercer (PIT)
Owned in 14.6% of Yahoo! leagues, 6% of Fleaflicker Leagues
Mercer has been red-hot since the All-Star Break, and in July in general. This is a guy who could boost your batting average while he’s hot, but he certainly isn’t going to improve your power numbers at all. Mercer is not a lineup mainstay, but he can certainly help you out while he’s seeing the ball well.
Baller Move: Add in deeper leagues or as injury replacement
Stephen Drew (BOS)
Owned in 7.2% of leagues, Yahoo! leagues, 9% of Fleaflicker Leagues
Here’s another example of why you sign with a team BEFORE the season starts. We’re approaching August and Stephen Drew is just starting to heat up now. That being said, he is starting to heat up. He’s had two jacks and six RBI in the last week, and he’s looking much more comfortable at the plate. Drew has always been a better second-half performer, so take a flier on him in the last couple months.
Baller Move: Add in deep leagues or as injury replacement
