Waiver Wire Pickups For Second Base (2B) and Shortstop (SS)

June 10, 2014

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 10? 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 who could be sleepers in the next few weeks, depending on your league format including NL-Only and AL-Only leagues. If they are available on your waiver wire, snatch them up. At the very least keep them on your radar…

Second Base (2B) Waiver Wire Pickups

Tommy La Stella (ATL)—Owned in 5.9% of leagues

This talented rookie definitely has some staying power in the Braves lineup. The main reason is because his main competition is Dan Uggla, owner of the fourth-lowest OBP in the majors. La Stella is hitting .400 since joining the Bravos, and has a good combination of contact and speed. There is fantasy value here, even if he’s not one of the super-hyped rookies.

Baller Move: Add him in deeper leagues, NL-Only leagues

Jordy Mercer (PIT) - Owned in 3.2% of leagues

Home boy is caliente right now, and has essentially reclaimed his spot as the starting shortstop in Pittsburgh. This is more of a temporary fill-in though, as he’s not going to burst on the scene and become a top 10 player. You’re going to get a handful of runs scored and RBIs while he’s hot, but don’t plan on having him in your lineup come September.

Baller Move: Use as an injury replacement

Shortstop (SS) Waiver Wire Pickups

Brandon Crawford (SF) - Owned in 13.1% of leagues

I’ve written about him before and I’ll do it here again—the man is still producing. The average isn’t anything above average (although he is riding a bit of a hot streak), but he’s on pace for 70 RBIs and may even crack 20 home runs come the end of the season. Definitely could do worse at the shortstop position.

Baller Move: Consider him in deeper leagues, NL-Only Leagues

Chris Owings (ARI) - Owned in 9.4% of leagues

Another guy I’ve written about before. I really see some value here, as he has a sneaky mix of speed and power that has given him a stranglehold on the shortstop job. .275 with five homers and six stolen bases at this point in the season isn’t too bad at all, especially considering that lineup isn’t exactly lighting it up these days. That run total could see a boost if things heat up in Arizona. Take a flier here.

Baller Move: Add as an injury-replacement or if you’re desperate