Five Injured Players to Stash in Fantasy Baseball - Waiver Wire Pickups for Week 22

Wade J. Smith (@wadejosephsmith) highlights five injured fantasy baseball players worth stashing in redraft leagues, as of August 16, 2024 (Week 22).

Welcome back, RotoBallers! We've got yet another edition of the Injured Players to Stash in Fantasy Baseball series for Week 22.

Heading into Week 22 and beyond, we'll highlight five injured players to stash in your redraft leagues. If you're new to the series, check out our previous articles for some other options.

There are still productive players set to return from injury. Whether it's pitching, offense, or both, the guys in this article can help. Only those rostered in 60% or less of Yahoo leagues are eligible.

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Matt McLain, 2B/SS, Cincinnati Reds

Rostered: 42% Yahoo
Estimated Return: Early September

This time last week, it looked like McLain's rehab assignment was imminent -- however, due to a stress fracture in his rib cage, we're still waiting. As of now, there aren't any updates. But there's still a chance that McLain will return to the Reds lineup by season's end.

Last season, McLain was one of the most productive middle infielders in all of fantasy. His impressive combination of contact, power, and speed make him a strong asset. If he ends up playing in 2024, McLain could majorly impact many fantasy leagues. Overall, he's worth keeping until it's confirmed that he'll miss the entire season.

Matt McLain Scheduled For Checkup MRI https://t.co/fixpq1q8QH

— RotoBaller MLB (@RotoBallerMLB) August 15, 2024

Nolan Jones, 1B/OF, Colorado Rockies

Rostered: 49% Yahoo
Estimated Return: Late August

After an impressive rookie year, Jones (back) has had an underwhelming sophomore campaign. His 71 OPS+ in 2024 is a far cry from the 141 OPS+ he put up in 2023. However, it seemed like Jones was heating up right before his injury. Through nine games in July, he was 8-for-27 with a double and 5:8 BB/SO.

Last year, Jones had his best month in September. In 29 games, he slashed .349/.461/.651 with five doubles, three triples, seven homers, 23 RBI, 12 steals, and 21:27. Though he likely won't repeat this in 2024, there's still a chance of catching lightning in a bottle here. It may be a Hail Mary, but if you need help in the outfield, why not?

It's worth noting that Jones has performed well during his rehab assignment. On top of that, he should be activated soon, so you won't have to wait on him for very long.

Nolan Jones looks healthy from here!

The @Rockies' outfielder goes yard for his 4th XBH in 4 games as he continues his rehab assignment with the @ABQTopes. pic.twitter.com/JRTPErFVL4

— Minor League Baseball (@MiLB) August 15, 2024

Tyler Soderstrom, C/1B, Oakland Athletics

Rostered: 5% Yahoo
Estimated Return: Early September

A few weeks ago, I wrote about Soderstrom's raw power and overlooked upside. Though his current stats aren't anything to write home about, his batted-ball metrics are up there with the best of 'em. If he qualified, Soderstrom would be in the 90th percentile in xSLG, average exit velocity, barrel rate, and hard-hit rate.

Soderstrom has what it takes to mash at the big league level. When he comes back (hopefully in a few weeks), he could tap into it and hit quite a few homers. Like Nolan Jones, adding Soderstrom is pretty risky. But, at this point, it's go big or go home. Soderstrom could go big.

Tyler Soderstrom over his last 13 games:

.326 AVG
5 HR
12 RBI
9 Runspic.twitter.com/zXECkwZwqi

— Kirk Snyder (@dynastyinfo411) June 23, 2024

Jordan Romano, RP, Toronto Blue Jays

Rostered: 45% Yahoo
Estimated Return: Uncertain

Over the last few years, Romano has been one of fantasy baseball's most valuable relief pitchers. Though he got off to a rough start in 2024 (and then he got hurt), there's little reason to believe that he won't return to his old way once he's healthy again.

Romano threw 200 2/3 innings from 2020-2023, posting a 2.29 ERA, 1.08 WHIP, and 251:75 K/BB. This is almost certainly more indicative of his abilities than the 13 2/3 innings he threw earlier this year. It looks like Romano could make it back into Toronto's bullpen before the season's over. If you need to boost your pitching staff, he could help.

Jordan Romano: the fine line between closer and psychopath. pic.twitter.com/rdvIFlGzda

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 21, 2024

Trevor Megill, RP, Milwaukee Brewers

Rostered: 41% Yahoo
Estimated Return: Mid-to-Late August

Megill is having a phenomenal season, and he did a great job holding down the closer role in Milwaukee while Devin Williams was away. Unfortunately, now that Williams is back, Megill's value will take a hit in most leagues since he won't see many save opportunities. But if you're in a league that values holds as well, Megill is a solid investment.

Megill brings the heat! 🔥🔥🔥

18 pitches, 15 strikes, 1 solid inning pitched by Trevor Megill.#TRatNation pic.twitter.com/Sejv8pdOV4

— Wisconsin Timber Rattlers (@TimberRattlers) August 16, 2024

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