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Bill Dubiel analyzes fantasy baseball waiver wire pickups and sleepers at the second base (2B) and shortstop (SS) positions. Target these middle infielders (MI).
So how’d you do in week 9? 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 infielder sleepers who could be useful off the waiver wire in the next few weeks, depending on your league size and format including NL-Only and AL-Only leagues. If they are available, snatch them up. At the very least keep them on your radar…
Second Base (2B) Waiver Wire Pickups
Luis Valbuena (2B, CHC) - Owned in 1.8% of leagues
So in case you weren’t watching, Luis Valbuena has had a hell of a 2014. While not a fantasy-relevant stat, the man does have the third best weighted on-base percentage in the MLB. No, that’s not a typo. He’s got above average power and is getting on base either through hits or walks, both of which are valuable in a majority of leagues.
The Cubs are in the process of shifting him from third base to second base (sorry Darwin Barney) to make room for Mike Olt, but rest assured - this guy is getting every day at-bats and making the most of them. Feel free to take a flier off the waiver wire in deeper leagues if you need some help at 2B or MI.
Baller Move: Add him in deeper leagues
Kolten Wong (2B, STL) - Owned in 26.8% of leagues
He’s sneaking his way back into relevancy, I’m telling you. The bat is starting to pick up, which means he’s on base much more often, which means those stolen bases are going to start piling up. Wong has always been talented, and the Cardinals' patience with him is beginning to pay off. Snatch him up off the waiver wire if you need some runs/speed in a roto league, and keep an eye on him as a bust-out overall performer at some point this season. Playing on a very good St. Louis team and in a solid lineup always helps, the Cardinals just have a way of developing great players.
Baller Move: Add him in deeper leagues
Shortstop (SS) Waiver Wire Pickups
Derek Jeter (NYY) - Owned in 22.4% of leagues
Come on, it’s the Captain! Seriously though, shortstop is a super thin position and this guy still gets on base, doesn’t strike out a whole lot, and is good for your team’s soul. He’s still at the top of a very good lineup, and if you need a filler for an injured middle infielder, why not do something American and pick up Derek Jeter?
Baller Move: Consider him in deeper leagues, AL-Only leagues
Adeiny Hechavarria (MIA) - Owned in 5.3% of leagues
A word of caution to those looking to add Hechavarria—he is a fantasy player from the 1700’s. Why? Because he’s got no power (BA-DUM, chhhh). Really though, this is a guy who’s going to score runs ands not much else, so if you’re looking for that sort of player in a roto league he might be your guy. From a non-roto league standpoint, he doesn’t strike out a whole lot, so at least he won’t hurt you if K’s count as -1. Like I said…shortstop is really, really thin.
Baller Move: Add as an injury-replacement or if you’re desperate
