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

August 2, 2014

Bill Dubiel analyzes the best waiver wire pickups at the second base and shortstop positions for week 18. These sleeper hitters can have an immediate impact.

So how’d you do in the first half? 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 that could be useful in the next few weeks. If they are still available on your league’s waiver wire, consider snatching these sleepers up. At the very least keep them on your radar…

Second Base (2B) Waiver Wire Options

Yangervis Solarte (SD)

Owned in 29.7% of leagues

The things a change of scenery will do, huh? Since joining the Padres, Solarte has been on a tear. At the time of this writing Solarte was hitting over .360 with an RBI with seven of his eight games with the Padres.

There’s a reason the Padres traded for him—he’s a talented and aggressive hitter who can be a major force when he’s hot. He’s hot. Add him.

Baller Move: Add in deep leagues, monitor in all leagues

Luis Valbuena (CHC)

Owned in 1.2% of leagues

Valbuena is sneakily having a productive season, and he’s been particularly hot of late. He’s had 11 RBI in his last eight games, and he’s going to keep getting the at-bats necessary to stay hot. You could do much worse than this guy if you’re desperate.

Baller Move: Add in deep leagues or as injury replacement

Shortstop (SS) Waiver Wire Options

Adeiny Hechavarria (MIA)

Owned in 5.0% of leagues

Hechavarria doesn’t have the counting stats to make a huge splash, but he has been quietly bumping his batting average lately, and has it up over .275. He doesn’t have a jack yet this year, and he’s certainly not bringing in the runs. However, he’s not striking out a whole lot and he’s crossing the plate. Riding a seven-game hit streak, so give him a shot.

Baller Move: Add in deep leagues or as injury replacement

Jordy Mercer (PIT)

Owned in 13.0% of leagues

This is another guy whose counting stats don’t jump off the screen. But, like Hechavarria, he doesn’t strike out a whole bunch and he crosses the plate every now and then.

I don’t expect him to be a mainstay in your lineup, but if you’re desperate, he could be helpful. Did I mention how shallow the shortstop talent pool is?

Baller Move: Add in deeper leagues or as injury replacement