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Justin Slaten is a fantasy baseball waiver wire pickup for closers and saves. Target Slaten as a free agent relief pitcher for saves on the waiver wire.
BALLER MOVE: Add in 14+ Team Leagues
ROSTERED IN: 2% of Leagues
ANALYSIS: Boston Red Sox reliever Justin Slaten was drafted in 2019 and has had strong strikeout numbers at every stop in the minors. Between Double-A and Triple-A in 2023, he struck out 86 hitters over 59 2/3 IP. His MLB debut came in extra innings earlier this season with the winning run on third base, and the 26-year-old gave up a walk-off single to Julio Rodriguez. Since then, the righty has pitched five-and-two-thirds innings without allowing a hit, has struck out six batters, and recorded a save.
Justin Slaten's Filth
5Ks in 2 innings. pic.twitter.com/dWS2hl3wKK
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) April 7, 2024
Part of Slaten's appeal is closer Kenley Jansen's back, which has caused him problems in spring training and "tightened up" on him following his first save which made him unavailable to pitch the next day (Slaten's debut). Jansen was able to pitch three times in four days last week for the Sox, but his back issues still sound like they could linger all season.
If they do, then Slaten would be given an opportunity to save more games (veteran Chris Martin seemingly would be in the mix too). If it becomes an IL stint for the 36-year-old Jansen or if Jansen is traded, then there'd be even more opportunity. Based on his K numbers alone, Slaten is worth a speculative add in deep leagues and AL-only formats. Should the Sox's closer situation break in Slaten's favor then he'd be rosterable in all leagues. The former third-round draft pick is currently available in 98% of Yahoo leagues.
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