RADIO
![By mwlguide [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons](https://www.rotoballer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/arismendy-alcantara-mlb-prospects-call-ups-rookies-fantasy-baseabll.png)
Bill Dubiel analyzes the top waiver wire pickups at second base and shortstop for week 17 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 middle infielders sleepers off the waiver wire that could be useful in the next few weeks. If they are still available on your league’s waiver wire, consider snatching them up for your fantasy baseball team. At the very least keep them on your radar.
Waiver Wire Pickups at Second Base (2B)
Kolten Wong (STL
Owned 57.2% in Yahoo!, 14% in Fleaflicker
Since coming off the DL on July 6th, Wong has been making pitchers look silly. Here’s the week he had prior to the All-Star Break: eight runs scored, eight RBI, four jacks, and three SB.
That’s awful useful, isn’t it? This guy has always had the talent, and while those power numbers aren’t sustainable you can certainly use this guy while he’s hot. Pick him up.
Baller Move: Add in all leagues
Scooter Gennett (MIL
Owned in 59.2% in Yahoo!, 20% in Fleaflicker
Quick, who’s got the best OPS of all second basemen in the MLB? WRONG. It’s Scooter Gennett. The counting stats are there too—at the break, Scooter is hitting .309 with 40 runs scored and 33 RBI. Toss in seven bombs and five stolen bases and you’ve got a quality fantasy player. This is one Scooter I wouldn’t mind riding. That sounded less weird in my head.
Baller Move: Add in all leagues
Waiver Wire Pickups at Shortstop (SS)
Yunel Escobar (TB)
Owned in 0.2% in Yahoo!, 6% in Fleaflicker
He’s back from the DL, and looks pretty good so far. He’s not going to blow anybody away with his offensive production, but he’s a serviceable replacement at a very thin position. The Rays offense is starting to figure things out, and Escobar should slide right into the machine in the second half.
Baller Move: Add in deeper leagues or as injury replacement
Arismendy Alcantara (CHC)
Owned in 25.2% in Yahoo!, 9% in Fleaflicker
![By mwlguide [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons](http://www.rotoballer.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/arismendy-alcantara-mlb-prospects-call-ups-rookies-fantasy-baseabll-150x150.png)
He’s one of the sexier adds in fantasy baseball right now, and I’d advise adding him right now. However, a word of caution to all you would-be waiver wire wizards (alliteration for the win).
His history shows that he is going to strike out, so if Ks count as -1 in your league his value may not be exactly what it appears to be. Like I said, add him for now, but keep a wary eye out for a drop-off in production, and get ready to trade him away.
Baller Move: Add in deeper leagues
