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The season rolls on and fantasy managers need to continue analyzing their roster with an eye on categories instead of just adding any random player. This week the primary focus for outfield additions will be to maximize venues. Some might cause a little tingle of concern when you read their name. Don't be afraid. Do what you're comfortable doing with your roster. No Fear, Just Fantasy.
Whether you're streaming a hot bat or need to replace a guy long-term, there are plenty of different options. The issue is that you are not alone and others in your league might have intent on doing the same thing. Just make sure you make a decision and grab someone. You'll lose valuable counting stats if you leave a roster spot empty, even if only a day. In this article, I’ll discuss waiver wire targets for the outfield in week 21. This week we cover guys that primarily have advantageous environments and playing time.
Even in the first few weeks, ownership can change quickly. Be quick to check your leagues for their availability. Key points - this list will focus on players who are owned in less than 50% of Yahoo leagues. When you want to chat it up regarding outfielders, prospects, or dynasty leagues, message me directly on Twitter @EllisCan2.
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Outfield (OF) Waiver Wire Options
Shallow Leagues (50-30% Owned)
David Fletcher (2B/SS/3B/OF, LAA) — 34% owned
Fletcher has been a pleasant source of runs and batting average this year(64 runs and .289AVG). Over the last two weeks, he has seven runs and a .300 batting average. His high average is anchored by a plate discipline that leads to a mere three percent Swinging Strike rate and a nine percent strikeout rate. You’ll only want to use Fletcher for one series this week versus the Rangers as the Astros offer little potential for Fletcher to succeed facing Zack Greinke and Gerrit Cole. Four games in Arlington are quite attractive so definitely grab him for that series.
Hunter Pence (OF, TEX) — 39% owned
Pence had a tremendous first half with 15HR, 48RBI, and a .294 batting average. However, he hasn’t been the same since a groin injury sidelined him for a month. Since his return, he’s done little in the form of production. Actually, the team hasn’t given him much playing time as they have little to play for and would much rather take it easy on their 36-year-old outfielder. This week, Pence has the potential to play eight games, with four at home in Arlington versus the Angels before a road trip to take on the White Sox. Even if the Rangers continue to scatter his playing time, Pence can be productive if you can make daily adjustments.
Oscar Mercado (OF, CLE) — 35% owned
Mercado has the potential to provide a little pop and speed. The primary question is playing time. Mercado has been sluggish the last couple of weeks with one homer and a .222 average. Greg Allen also replaced him in the lineup versus right-handed pitchers last week though Mercado hit .280 with five long balls against them. The upcoming week has five games against right-handers and only one facing a lefty. Those in leagues with daily moves would benefit from Mercado. We have to wait to see how it shakes out as any piece of the Indians lineup is very valuable.
Other players to consider: Alex Gordon (OF, KC) — 46% owned
Deeper Leagues (30-10% Owned)
Kevin Kiermaier (OF, TB) — 14% owned
Left-handed hitting Kiermaier loves facing southpaws this year with a .326 average against them. However, his power (10 homers) have come versus right-handers, despite a .216 batting average. This week is set up beautifully as he’ll face three lefties in the Mariners series before traveling to Camden where he gets a four-game schedule, three of which will be righties. Grab Kiermaier and enjoy the bounty this week, assuming he stays healthy.
Anthony Santander (OF, BAL) — 29% owned
Santander would be near the top of my list based on venues alone. He gets a week of home-cooked meals before heading in to play at homer-friendly Camden Yards. This should be more than enough to make Santander relevant this week and boost his ownership. He’s had some tough competition the last couple of weeks so it would be unfair to judge him on his .259AVG and three homers. The Royals and Rays won’t provide the same level of opposition which is to Santander’s favor.
Others to consider: Willie Calhoun (OF, TEX) —12% owned; Kole Calhoun (OF, LAA) —30% owned; Leury Garcia (SS/OF, CHW) — 21% owned
Super Deep Leagues (< 10% Owned)
Delino DeShields (OF, TEX) — 2% owned
For those that are desperate for steals, the question is how badly you need them. Would you be willing to pay the price of a .167-batting average? In order to acquire the four stolen bases DeShields yielded the last two weeks, that was the price. This week, the opposition will provide the potential for better as the Rangers will face the Angels before traveling to play the White Sox. The eight-game schedule will allow for more opportunities in hopes of DeShields returning to the .254AVG he has this season. It is definitely worth the risk.
Eric Thames (1B/OF, MIL) — 5% owned
Thames has become a part-time player that is utilized strictly against right-handed pitching to the tune of 16HR, 43RBI, and a .254AVG. Fortunately enough, all six games this week are against righties so Thames should be in the lineup daily. Assuming this, his stock increases as everyone wants a little bit of the Brewers lineup. You should too.
Greg Allen (OF, CLE) — 2% owned
Allen has started the last couple of games against right-handed pitchers. If that trend holds true, he will have ample opportunity to benefit your lineups with five games against righties this week. This will come at the expense of Oscar Mercado. In 29 at-bats, Allen has provided two homers, one stolen base, and a .241 batting average. It will take a daily assessment to determine if he is in the lineup, but it will be valuable in deeper leagues.
Others to consider: Dexter Fowler (OF, STL) —2% owned
More Waiver Wire Pickups and Streamers
Check out RotoBaller's entire fantasy baseball waiver wire pickups and sleepers list, updated daily!
