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Joe Hannon breaks down five fantasy baseball sleepers outfielders (OF) that may still be available on your league's waiver wire. These MLB players can have an impact.
There's always a chance to gain an edge on the competition and snag a few sleepers off the waiver wire. That is the beauty of fantasy baseball. It seems like every week I am writing about another outfield prospect who is ready to make the leap to the big leagues. George Springer is starting to produce for the Astros and Gregory Polanco is already being heralded as the "next big thing" for the Pirates.
Adding an unproven prospect to your fantasy team is a huge risk, because most players need an adjustment period before they can contribute. So while Oscar Taveras' potential major league stats may by enticing, don't forget to check out the other four outfield waiver wire options on this list. They may be available in your league depending on the format, including AL-Only and NL-Only leagues.
Marlon Byrd - (OF, PHI) - 79% Owned
BALLER MOVE: Add in All Formats
For whatever reason, the percentage of leagues in which Marlon Byrd is owned has dipped over the past few weeks. The journeyman outfielder has been productive at the plate this season, hitting .298 with 18 R, 6 HR and 29 RBI.
At 36 years-old, Byrd is no longer a threat to steal bases, but he is leading the Phillies in RBI through 44 games. This one is a no-brainer, if Byrd is available in your league, grab him now.
Dexter Fowler - (OF, HOU) - 45% Owned
BALLER MOVE: Add in All Formats
After spending the first six years of his career in Colorado, Dexter Fowler has found a new home in Houston. The speedy switch-hitter has been batting third in a young Astros lineup as of late, and can produce in every fantasy category. On the season, Fowler's line is .264 BA, 27 R, 3 HR, 13 RBI and 5 SB. His .375 OBP is the best on the team and often leads to run-scoring and base-stealing opportunities. Fowler is a solid waiver wire option for fantasy owners, especially if he continues to bat in the top third of the order.
Kole Calhoun - (OF, LAA) - 17% Owned
BALLER MOVE: Continue Scouting
Kole Calhoun was off to a decent start this season before an ankle sprain put him on the disabled list. The 26 year-old was activated on Wednesday and should return to the Angels daily lineup. In 14 games, Calhoun had 12 R, 3 HR, 6 RBI and 2 SB. Calhoun has the ability to contribute in many different areas which makes him an interesting play in fantasy leagues. He may need a few games to get his timing down, but be ready to add him if he picks up where he left off earlier this year.
Oscar Taveras - (OF, STL) - 5% Owned
BALLER MOVE: Continue Scouting
While owners are waiting with bated breath for Gregory Polanco to make his Pirates debut, there is another prospect who may be on his way to the majors in the near future. Oscar Taveras is hitting .304 with 26 R, 6 HR, 33 RBI and 1 SB for the Memphis Redbirds of the Pacific Coast League.
The Cardinals have not given an exact date as to when Taveras will be called up, but that day has to be drawing near as John Jay and Peter Bourjos have struggled mightily this season. If you have an open spot on your bench, add Taveras or Polanco now. Otherwise, it might be too late to add them once they have been called up.
Lorenzo Cain - (OF, KC) - 2% Owned
BALLER MOVE: Add in AL-Only & Deeper Leagues
Lorenzo Cain is quietly putting together a solid start to the 2014 season. After spending some time on the disabled list, Cain has been in the lineup almost everyday. He has hit safely in seven of his last eight games, and is starting to wreak havoc on the base paths. Through 26 games, Cain is hitting .311 with 11 R, 1 HR, 13 RBI and 5 SB, with 3 of those stolen bases coming in the past five games. Cain can provide speed and batting average help for owners in AL-Only and deeper leagues.
