RADIO
So how’d you do in week 2? Whether you came out of the gate strong or stumbled at the start, your team can always use a shot in the arm…or in this case, the roster. Here’s a look at some middle infielders who could be useful in the early goings—if they are available, snatch them up. At the very least keep them on your radar. All ownership %'s from Yahoo!
Second Base (2B) Waiver Wire Pickups
Marcus Semien (CWS) - Owned in 4% of leagues
Heard of him? Well if not, listen up! Semien is the everyday second baseman for the ChiSox, regularly batting second and so far, proving himself. The batting average so far is rather ho-hum, but we are working with a small sample size so pay that no mind. What you should pay attention to is the two home runs and two stolen bases that he has already. In no way am I saying that he’s a guaranteed 20/20 player, but based on past trends it’s not out of the realm of possibility. Even if he puts up 12 homers and 18 steals, combine that with the run totals that a top-of-the-lineup player with a decent walk rate produces and you’ve got a solid fantasy middle infielder.
Baller Move: Add him in deeper leagues
Dan Uggla (ATL) - Owned in 8% of leagues
Did you catch the Braves game Monday night? If not, you missed UGGLA SMASH (Incredible Hulk voice). The Big Bad Bicep himself bashed two bombs, driving in five runs in the process. You know he’s not going to hit .300…hell, if he hits .250 you’re doing okay. But that power is going to be there one way or another. That lineup is going to produce plenty of options for RBI, and when he’s hot, Uggla is going to bring them in.
Baller Move: Add him in deeper leagues
Shortstop (SS) Waiver Wire Pickups
Brandon Crawford (SF) - Owned in 7% of leagues
Crawford has started the season red-hot, hitting over .300 in the early goings with seven RBI and one monster home run. As of the writing of this article, he’s in the midst of a six-game hitting streak, and has been looking outstanding at the plate. I’m not going to try and tell you he should be a mainstay in your lineup, but while the dude is hot, you grab those coattails and hold on tight.
Baller Move: Add him in deeper leagues
Adeiny Hechavarria (MIA) - Owned in 34% of leagues
The light-hitting Hechavarria has also started his season off on the right foot, currently hitting .327 thus far. He’s seen time towards the top of the lineup against lefties, which means that his run totals will see a boost. I’ve always seen Hechavarria as a supremely talented player merely waiting to come into his own, and my advice is to take a flier on him sooner rather than later if you need the help.
Baller Move: Add him in deeper leagues
