Stephen Strasburg is less than a week away from rejoining the Nationals and should still have a chance to make a late season fantasy impact. (photo by Kathy T)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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James Loney LAD | 1B

Loney has one of the hottest bats in baseball, but he is still available in a ton of leagues. The first base position is an easy spot to fill, but it is still worth riding out this hot streak. In his last 76 AB’s he is batting over .380 with decent power. (about 35% owned)

Mike Carp SEA | 1B/OF

The Mariners have called up a lot of players lately, but Carp has been by far the most impressive. He just continues to knock in runs, and we love that he has dual position eligibility as well. (about 35% owned)

Stephen Strasburg WAS | SP

It looks like Strasburg is less than a week away from rejoining the Nationals. His fastball has been in the mid 90′s, and he has looked solid in the minors. His pitch count will be closely monitored, but he should still have a chance to make a late season fantasy impact. (about 60% owned)

Mike Trout LAA | OF

The Angels first round pick from 2009 is starting to live up to the hype. In the last 2 weeks he is batting .400 with 4 home runs. Trout is a good young talent, and it looks like he might have some value in the last month of the season. (about 20% owned)

Austin Jackson DET | OF

Jackson is an extremely streaky player, and it looks like he might be at the beginning of one of his hot streaks. He has 7 hits in his last 3 games, and we think now is the time to add him. He is still available in a lot of leagues, so pick him up now if you need some speed in your OF. (about 35% owned)

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Alejandro De Aza CWS | OF

De Aza has been amazing since getting called up into the bigs. In 76 AB’s he is batting well over .300 with decent power and speed. He was batting .322 in the minors, and it looks like this young talent could offer nice speed and a solid average. (about 5% owned)

Kyle Seager SEA | 2B/3B

Seager is another one of the youngsters that the Mariners have called up lately, and he is also making some noise. He is batting right around .300 with a little bit of power, but the main story is his position eligibility. He can play 2B or 3B, so if you need help at those positions he could be your man. (about 15% owned)

Bruce Chen KC | SP

Chen isn’t going to blow you away with his numbers, but he has been on a nice hot streak. He has won each of his last 5 starts, and he has had decent K counts during that time. If you take out his start from July 27th when he gave up 10 earned runs, then Chen would have great numbers for the season. (about 15% owned)

Jesus Montero NYY | C

It looks like the Yankees are finally ready to call up their young catcher that everyone has been talking about. He is one of the top prospects in the game, and he could make an instant fantasy impact. He is batting just under .300 in the minors with decent power, and he should see a lot of at bats down the stretch. (about 10% owned)

J.D. Martinez HOU | OF

This 24 year old prospect has gotten off to a nice start in his major league career. In 3 seasons in the minors he was batting over .340 with a few home runs mixed in. So far in the bigs he is batting right around .300 with decent power. He isn’t going to give you much in the stolen bases department, but he still has a big upside. (about 15% owned)

Rod Barajas LAD | C

If you are looking for a hot bat at catcher then you need to pick up Barajas. He has raised his average .34 points since August 16th, and he has 5 home runs during that span. We doubt he will keep up this pace for the rest of the season, but he is worth a roster spot in some leagues just in case he does. (about 10% owned)

Peter Bourjos is known more for his speed than his power, but he recently found his power stroke and is worth an add in most leagues. (photo by Keith Allison)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Peter Bourjos LAA | OF

We all know that Bourjos has good speed, but lately he has found his power stroke as well. In his last 96 ABs he is batting well over .300, and he has 5 HRs. Considering he only has 14 HRs in his short career, adding 5 more to that total in less then 100 ABs is pretty impressive. Bourjos will more then likely cool back off, but since he has the potential to do it all we say ride out this hot streak. (about 30% owned)

Mike Carp SEA | 1B/OF

Since getting called up Carp continues to impress with his performance. He was working on a 20-game hit streak, but it got snapped in the first game of the double header on Tuesday. Carp has been a nice surprise for the Mariners and we think he will continue to have fantasy value for the rest of the season. (about 50% owned)

Jose Tabata PIT | OF

Finally, Tabata is starting to put up some numbers. We had high hopes for him this year, but he hasn’t been able to produce until recently. He is batting .382 in his last 34 ABs, and it looks like he might be breaking out of his slump. We have always loved the upside of Tabata, so we say snag him now and see what happens. (about 45% owned)

Darwin Barney CHC | 2B/SS

The story with Barney is his position eligibility, shortstop and second base are hard positions to fill and Barney could be a great utility guy for any fantasy team. He isn’t going to bat for a ton of power, but he has been batting well over .300 in the last couple weeks, and we think he is a great add if you need help with your middle infield. (about 45% owned)

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Nathan Eovaldi LAD | SP

Eovaldi has pitched great since getting called up to fill the hole in the rotation left by De La Rosa. In his 4 starts so far he has yet to give up more then 2 earned runs per outing. His K counts aren’t that great, but we think Eovaldi could have decent fantasy value for the rest of the season. (about 10% owned)

Trayvon Robinson SEA | OF

The Mariners have been calling up a lot of there young talent to see what these guys can do, and Robinson is one of their latest call-ups. He wasn’t batting for the best average in the minors, but he has some pop in his bat. In 428 ABs in the minors he had 26 HRs with an average of .290. If you need some power in your OF then keep a close eye on Robinson. (about 5% owned)

Casper Wells SEA | OF

Wells has put up solid numbers since coming over to Seattle in a trade from Detroit. In his first 17 games for the Mariners he is batting over .300 with good power numbers. It looks like a change of scenery has put some pop in his bat, and we say ride out his hot streak. (about 10% owned)

Chad Qualls SD | RP

With the chance of Heath Bell getting shipped out of town, this could open up the closer role in San Diego for Qualls. The Padres already sent Adams packing so this would leave Qualls as the likely next guy in line to pitch in the 9th. He isn’t going to blow you away with his numbers, but if you need saves you could do a lot worse. (about 5% owned)

Nick Hundley SD | C

In the last couple weeks Hundley has had one of the hottest bats in baseball. In his last 35 ABs he is almost batting .500 with 5 doubles, 4 triples, and 3 HRs. Those are amazing numbers for any player much less a catcher. If your catcher isn’t batting that great right now you might want to pick up Hundley and see how long this hot streak lasts. (about 15% owned)

After another long stint on the DL, Justin Morneau has been activated and is hitting the ball well in his rehab stint with Triple-A Rochester. (photo by Keith Allison)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Jesús Guzmán SD | 1B

Guzman offers something that not a lot of first baseman can offer, and thats speed. In 126 AB’s so far this season he has 7 SB’s, to go along with a .349 average and 5 HR’s. The Padres had a big hole to fill with Adrian Gonzalez going to Boston, and it looks like they may have found their guy. (about 30% owned)

Mike Carp SEA | 1B/OF

After dominating in the minors Carp was called up, and his bat has not cooled off. He is batting well over .300 since being called up, with decent power numbers. He is a nice gamble if you need help at 1B or OF. (about 10% owned)

Javy Guerra LAD | RP

It’s a shock that Guerra is only owned in about half of then fantasy leagues right now. He has done nothing but impress, and we feel he has a strong hold on the closer role in LA. We see no reason why he shouldn’t be owned in all leagues at this point. (about 50% owned)

Iván Nova NYY | SP

Nova isn’t going to blow you away with his ERA or K’s, but he is finding ways to get wins. He has won 7 of his last 8 starts, and he hasn’t given up more then 4 runs in any of those outings. The Yankees are going to give him a lot of run support, so if you need help with wins then you might want to give Nova a look. (about 30% owned)

Justin Morneau MIN | 1B

After another long stint on the DL, Morneau was finally activated. He was doing pretty well in the minors and will hopefully go back to his power hitting ways. He should be picked back up in all leagues. (about 70% owned)

Stephen Strasburg WAS | SP

Believe it or not it looks like Strasburg will make it back to the majors in 2011. He already has his fastball back up into the upper 90′s, and so far in the minors he has been pitching great. The Nationals are going to be cautious with his pitch count, but we think he is a great gamble at this point if you need a starting pitcher. (about 40% owned)

Hideki Matsui OAK | OF

Matsui is the proud owner of the hottest bat in baseball, and if he is available you should consider riding out this hot streak. In the last month he is batting .432 with 5 HR’s and 24 RBI’s. He will more than likely come crashing back down to earth at some point, but if he stays healthy he could give your team good value down the stretch. (about 40% owned)

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Nathan Eovaldi LAD | SP

In 2 starts so far in the bigs, Eovaldi has been very impressive. A spot in the rotation opened up when De La Rosa went out with his elbow injury, and Eovaldi has filled in nicely to this point. He has a K per inning, and he has only given up 2 earned runs in 11 innings pitched. Eovaldi is a great young pitcher that is worth picking up in some leagues, but at the very least keep a close eye on him. (about 5% owned)

Edwin Encarnación TOR | 1B/3B

Encarnacion has been around for a while and he has never really been fantasy relevant. But he started to show some signs of life last year, and he has carried that into the second half of this season. In his last 90 AB’s he is batting .360 with decent speed and power. Another plus for Encarnacion is his duel position eligibility. (about 15% owned)

Jesus Montero NYY | C

Montero had a lot of hype around in before the season, but he has yet to get called up to the bigs. He has been doing ok in the minors, but nothing amazing so thats part of the reason he is still not in the bigs. With reports that Posada will not see as much action at DH, it sounds like he might be getting the call sooner rather then later. We aren’t expecting huge things from Montero right away, but he should have plenty of RBI opportunities on that high powered Yankee offense. (about 10% owned)

Derrek Lee has hit safely in 14 of his last 18 games and could a sneaky source of power in deeper leagues. (photo by Keith Allison)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Javy Guerra LAD | RP

Since taking over the closer role for the Dodgers, Guerra has been absolutely amazing. In his last 8 outings Guerra has 6 saves, 1 win, and 8 strikeouts. If you need saves ensure to run to the wire to grab Guerra. At this point Guerra has proved himself as a closer so even if he has a bad outing the Dodgers will certainly give him at least a chance or two. Pick him up with confidence and either start him for your team or start sending the trade offering to someone in your league that needs saves. (about 35% owned)

Vance Worley PHI | SP

Since the Phils have been dying for starting pitching it nice to see them finally find some. Obviously this is us being sarcastic and this is the case of the rich getting richer. On the season Worley is 7-1 with a 2.02 ERA, and a 1.09 WHIP and is now fully intrigued into the Philadelphia rotation. We expect a nice second half and Worley is much more than a spot start at this point. (about 60% owned)

Desmond Jennings TB | OF

As soon as Carl Crawford left the Rays everyone was just waiting for Jennings to be called up. He is a unique mixture of some power and a ton of speed which normally equals fantasy gold. Well, he is certainly living up to expectations at this point batting over 300, with a homerun, eight RBIs, and four steals in just over 30 at bats. While we don’t expect Jennings to keep it up he is certainly worth an add to spot start or even try to deal. (about 45% owned)

Deeper Leagues

Cameron Maybin SD | OF

In the month of July Maybin has been been a thief, stealing 13 bases and he has even raised his average 20 points. If you are in a roto league looking to move up the speed categories Maybin is just the type of guy to grab. San Diego needs to manufacture runs so it seems every time Maybin get on base he has the green light. (about 45% owned)

Derrek Lee PIT | 1B

The Pirates recently acquired Derrek Lee from Baltimore. He is not going to set the world on fire as you make your playoff push but he still has a little pop in the bat. He has proved that in the month of July by hitting six bombs this past month. Lee certainly could be a sneaky source of power if you need it. (about 30% owned)

James McDonald PIT | SP

All season long we have been waiting for McDonald to put it together. It seemed every outing McDonald would be stellar for all but one inning which would lead to a no decision or even a lose. With that said he has had two outings in a row where he looked great from start to finish. Winning both contests and posting 16 Ks. If you are looking for starting pitching help McDonald is a perfect guy to grab. (about 15% owned)

Lucas Duda NYM | 1B/OF

When Beltran left the Mets he opened the door for Duda to be an everyday player and since moving into that role Duda has really stepped up. Hitting close to .275, with 2 jacks, and 6 RBIs. In deeper league he could be a nice bat to have if you are looking for a little pop. (about 5% owned)

Robby Parnell may be the Mets' long-term choice to replace K-Rod and if you need saves, he's a player to add off the waiver wire. (photo by Keith Allison)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Rubby De La Rosa LAD | SP

As we all have heard Dustin is a big fan of this guy but it is for good reason. He has a great fastball with some other nasty stuff but he is young and has control issues. With that said if you are in a deeper league or looking for starting pitching De La Rosa is a great speculative add because he is one or two more good starts away from being picked up in a ton of leagues. (scare Namejko as he has a bet with Dustin that De La Rose will not be owned in 75% of leagues by year’s end) (about 10% owned)

Bobby Parnell NYM | RP

The Mets have traded K-Rod so it is now between Parnell and Isringhausen for the closer gig. Since Parnell has been getting the holds it seems logically that he will get the save chances. If you are looking for saves at all, grab Parnell. (about 30% owned)

Mike Adams SD | RP

Bell has not traded but it is looming, we would be surprised if he does not get dealt before the deadline so if Mike Adams is available grab him. Even if you don’t need saves it is a wise move to pick him up. On the season he has a 1.29 ERA, 0.71 WHIP and is getting a K per inning. Once he takes the closer roles he will have huge value. (about 40% owned)

Jason Isringhausen NYM | RP

As stated in the Bobby Parnell write-up K-Rod is gone so the Mets need a closer. Now Parnell is the leader in the clubhouse but Isringhausen does have a chance to sneak into the role. If you are dying for saves and Parnell is already taken plan B should be Isringhausen. (about 15% owned)

Aroldis Chapman CIN | RP

14 Ks in his last 7.2 innings, that is what Chapman has done and he is slowly moving back into our good graces after loving him before the season started. Cordero has blown three save chances in a row so he has to be on a short chain at this point. Even if Chapman does not get the closer job he is still a good pick-up in ROTO leagues that are worried about hitting their innings pitched limit. He will get a ton of Ks while not burning too many innings. (about 45% owned)

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Danny Valencia MIN | 3B

Valencia is having a great July hitting .349 with 11 RBIs thus far. If you are looking for help at corner infield or specifically third base you could do a ton worse than Valenica. (about 30% owned)

Eduardo Nunez NYY | 3B/SS

The Yankees might be the only team in the majors where Nunez would not be an everyday starter since he is behind the new Mr. 3,000 and A-Rod but Rodriguez has hit the DL and will be out 4 to 6 weeks so he is back in the line-up. Nunez will get you a decent average, good speed, and even a little pop. (about 10% owned)

Emilio Bonifacio FLA | 3B/SS/OF

Bonifacio is on fire in the month of July. He has 8 bags and is hitting .447 for the month. Now we don’t expect this to continue but you might as well grab him and ride out this hot streak if you need help at third or short. (about 15% owned)

If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

Scott Baker has won four out of his last five starts with 35 strikeouts and only six walks during that span. (photo by Keith Allison)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Rubby De La Rosa LAD | SP

Here we go, starting off with Dustin boy again. True Rubby has had some ok outings but his last one was a gem going 7 innings and only giving up one run. With all that said this guy might actually be more suited for the bullpen. He also starts off great before cooling off after the fifth inning or so. Either way he has a great arm and is worth a look if you need pitching help. (about 5% owned)

Scott Baker MIN | SP

Baker is what you would call a streaky pitcher. It seems like for his fantasy career he has always been added and dropped based on if he is hot or not. Well, he is currently hot so now is the time to ride him out. Baker has won four out of his last five and has improved his strikeout per nine totals in the stretch as well. (about 60% owned)

Antonio Bastardo PHI | RP

Ryan Madson better get healthy soon because he might not have a job upon his return. Madson went to the DL and Bastardo got the ball in the ninth for the Phils. Not only is he one for one in saves he has posted a sub one ERA on the season as well. There is a chance that Madson does not get his job back. If you are looking for saves run don’t walk to grab Bastardo. (about 30% owned)

Brandon Beachy ATL | SP

Beachy was all the hype at the start of the season then he went to the DL. He was dropped in numerous leagues but now he is back and should be grabbed even if you do not necessary need pitching help because he is pitching great since returning. In two outings he has two wins and 20 Ks in only 12 innings. Not bad at all.(about 60% owned)

Jemile Weeks OAK | 2B

Here is a rookie that has proven he can play in the bigs. Since being called up Weeks has posted a .303 batting average, with 6 bags, 6 rbis, and 12 runs. The A’s love this kid and if you need help at second so should you.(about 30% owned)

Jason Bay NYM | OF

We don’t think Bay is going to set the world on fire but he has basically doubled his power stats in his last 50 at bats. He is started to play a little better and he does have upside. Sure the average will not be there but remember he is only two seasons removed from a 36 homerun year.(about 50% owned)

Deeper Leagues

Vance Worley PHI | SP

This is all the Phils need another good starting pitcher. In three outings in June Worley has only given up two earned runs. We see him sticking in the rotation so if you need help go get him.(about 10% owned)

Cory Luebke SD | SP

Luebke is a set-up guy turned starting pitcher and has done well thus far. On the season he is posting over a K per inning with a sub 3 ERA. One other note is he plays in a pitcher friendly park so at least he is a good match-up at home pitcher for those daily set-up leagues.
(about 10% owned)

Alex Presley PIT | OF

Brent’s boy Tabata hit the DL and he finally gave up hope in our expert league and so should you if you own him. With that said his replacement is a young one with a ton of upside, Alex Presley. In his first game he did knock one out of the park. In deeper leagues he is certainly worth a look. (about 10% owned)

Chris Getz KC | 2B

If you need help at second base and you need a little speed boost Getz is your guy. Over the last two weeks he has swiped six bags and appears to have the green light to go anytime.(about 10% owned)

Jordan Zimmermann is now 2-0 with a 0.86 ERA in June and has posted an impressive 17-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio over that stretch. (photo by Keith Allison)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Jonathon Niese NYM | RP

Niese has been pretty solid this season and it is going unnoticed because in his early outings he gave up 6 and 5 runs respectively that ballooned his ERA at the start of the season. In May, he had an ERA under 3 and is currently at a 2.08 ERA for June thus far. Niese, like Gee (see below), is a wonderful match-up play for any team and will give you decent strikeout total as well. (about 30% owned)

Dillon Gee NYM | SP

Gee has been pitching lights out for Mets thus far this season and is certainly worth a look in must leagues. He has 7 wins with no losses, an ERA of 2.86, a Whip of 1.08 but, only 50 Ks in 66 innings pitched. We typically like to see closer to a 1 to 1 ratio but the fact he is piling up the wins cannot be deputed. We don’t think he is a must pitch against every team but he is an ideal candidate to have on your team if you are playing the match-up game. (about 55% owned)

Rubby De La Rosa LAD | RP

If you watched the show you know Dustin is in love with his, and I quote “Rubby in the rough” but it is certainly warranted. De La Rosa has moved into the starting rotation for the Dodgers and has been solid. For the season he is averaging a K per inning and has some nasty stuff however, he has a high walk rate as well. When pitchers have both high K and walk rates they normally either figure it out which produces a ton of strike outs or don’t which can get them into trouble. We are betting De La Rosa will be the former in this case.(about 5% owned)

Jordan Zimmermann WAS | SP

Zimmermann was a favorite sleeper for most experts heading into the season but after he got off to a rough start he was dropped in many leagues. Now might be the time to be picking him up again. In his last four outings (27 innings) he has only given up 4 runs and is coming off a double digit K game in his last start. Zimmermann is a young pitcher will all upside and could have a great second half. (about 65% owned)

Matt Thornton CWS | RP

We loved this lefty coming into the season but he stumbled at the beginning and we all know that Ozzie Guillen always has his closers on a short leash. So a few errors from Juan Pierre later (he killed Thornton early) Guillen inserted Sergio Santos into the closer role. As of late Santos has not been pitching great and now might be the time to add Thornton if you are looking for saves since a change might be coming in favor of Thornton again. (about 40% owned)

Brennan Boesch DET | OF

Boesch has been on somewhat of a roller coaster ride thus far this season. Starting off hot, he was added most leagues but by the end of May he cooled off and his average was lowered by over 40 points. This June has been another story as he has gotten back all 40 points and is hitting close to 300 again for the season. Boesch will also add some power and he is young enough that the upside is there for a big second half. (about 65% owned)

Austin Jackson DET | OF

As a rookie last season Jackson surprised everyone by hitting close to 300 and swiping 27 bags. He started out this year as a major disappointment but his bat is starting to come along and he has already proved he can hit big league pitching so if you need a bump in average and a little bit of speed Jackson might be your guy. (about 40 % owned)

Must Adds Deeper

Mike Moustakas KC | 3B

Moustakas has been one of the hyped minor league players this season and he was finally called up. In his second game as a pro Moustakas took one deep and had the fantasy community talking. We do not see him having huge value early but the fact he has third base eligibility certainly makes him an interesting guy to keep an eye on or add in deeper leagues. (about 40% owned)

J.J. Hardy BAL | SS

Hardy is a name that has been floating in fantasy circles for a while now but, has yet to really have his breakout season. It seemed as if this year was going to be more of the same but in the month of June Hardy has raised his average by 40 points and his is now hitting close to 300 for the season. He also gives you a little pop out of the shortstop position; he has hit 7 bombs this year so far. (about 35% owned)

Carlos Peguero SEA | OF

Peguero looks more like a line backer than a baseball player and since being called up he has 5 homeruns in 10 games. The power will be there but the average will not. (about 5% owned)

Alcides Escobar KC | SS

The interesting thing about Escobar is the speed you can get out of the shortstop position. If you are looking for a sneaky way to increase your stolen base total and you need a shortstop, Escobar is your guy. (about 15% owned)

Mitch Moreland has quietly been hitting well all season and is starting to find his power stroke. (photo by Keith Allison)

Waiver Wire is our weekly look at players available in many leagues that could have an immediate impact on your fantasy roster, or simply just players to keep on your radar. We’ll be here all season to let you know which players to watch, who to ignore, and most importantly, who to pick up. If you have any waiver wire questions, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

Add in all leagues

Eric Young Jr COL | 2B/OF

Young was one of our favorite long shot sleepers coming into the year, and it looks like he might finally have a full time gig. He has the potential to bat for average, and to be one of the league leaders in stolen bases. Since he has second base eligibility we think he is worth a look in all leagues. (about 10% owned)

Mitch Moreland TEX | 1B/OF

Moreland was another on of our favorite sleepers coming into the year, and he is starting to catch fire. His batting average is back over .300 and his power stroke is coming along nicely. He has the potential to do it all, and we feel it’s time to pick him up. (about 40% owned)

Freddie Freeman ATL | 1B

In the last 3 weeks Freeman has raised his average 50 points, and he is starting to live up to some of the hype. The 1B position is really deep this year, but Freeman should still be considered in all leagues. This 21 year old has one of the biggest upsides in baseball, and he should be around for a long time. (about 25% owned)

Aaron Crow KC | RP

Soria has been one of the biggest disappointments this year, and it looks like Crow is going to benefit from his struggles. Crow recently took over the duties for the Royals in the 9th, and if he continues to pitch well then we think he has a great chance of holding onto the closer role. (about 50% owned)

Pedro Alvarez PIT | 3B

Coming into the year Alvarez had a lot of hype around him, but so far he hasn’t done much. He was dropped in a ton of leagues because of his injury, but we say it’s time to pick him back up. Alvarez could still be a couple weeks away from returning, but we think he is worth a gamble. (about 55% owned)

Allen Craig STL | 2B/OF

Craig has been very impressive with his first 100 AB’s so far this season. He is batting almost .350 with a decent amount of power and speed mixed in. He has dual position eligibility, and he has been batting right in the heart of that great Cardinals offense. Craig has a lot of things going for him right now, and we feel he should be owned in more leagues. (about 15% owned)

Eric Hosmer KC | 1B

One of Brent’s favorite boys, Hosmer is a guy with a big upside. He is off to a solid start in his major league career, and he should be considered in pretty much all leagues. The former 3rd overall pick is only 21 years old, and he is living up to every bit of the hype so far. (about 55% owned)

Michael Morse WAS | 1B/OF

Morse has been one of the hottest players in baseball in the last 2 weeks. He is currently in the middle of a 11 game hit streak in which he has raised his average over 50 points. During that time frame he has also knocked 5 HR’s and 15 RBI’s. Morse is a slightly older guy at 29, but we think he still has a big upside. (about 50% owned)

Add in deeper leagues

Danny Espinosa WAS | 2B

Espinosa has been a roller coaster ride so far this year, but he is currently on one of his hot streaks. He has 5 HR’s in the last 2 weeks, and he has raised his average about 20 points during that time frame. We aren’t expecting Espinosa to bat for a great average, but he should offer good power from the second base position. (about 30% owned)

Jordan Lyles HOU | SP

The 20 year old rookie made his major league debut in impressive fashion, and we think he is worth a roster spot in a lot of leagues. Rookie pitchers do have the potential of making instant impacts, and it looks like Lyles could be one of those guys. In his first outing he allowed only 2 runs in 7 innings, while striking out 4 and walking no one. (about 15% owned)

Brett Lawrie TOR | 2B

Lawrie is one of the biggest prospects in baseball and it looks like he is about to be called up. He has been putting up amazing numbers in the minors and he could make an instant impact once he makes it to the bigs. We think he is well worth a gamble in most leagues. (about 15% owned)

Bartolo Colón NYY | SP

Fatty Colon is surprising a lot of people this year, including everyone at fantasysmacktalk. We doubt he will be able to keep this up, but he is worth an add in some leagues just in case he does. The Yankees should give him decent run support, and his K counts have impressive so far. (about 45% owned)

Austin Jackson extended his career-high hitting streak to 11 games on Thursday and is hitting .328 with two homers this month. (photo by Keith Allison)

Add in all leagues

Bud Norris HOU | SP

Bud is still an unproven pitcher, but he deserves to be universally owned after his hot start so far this season. He is among the league leaders in strikeouts, and he has an ERA in the mid 3′s. There is no reason why he should be on any leagues waiver wire at this point. (about 70% owned)

Anibal Sánchez FLA | SP

Sanchez is putting together a solid year, but he is surprisingly still available in a lot of leagues. He has over a K per inning and currently has an ERA under 3, and we say it’s time for him to be universally owned. (about 65% owned)

Michael Brantley CLE | OF

If you are looking for an all around outfielder (and who isn’t) then you need to consider Brantley. He has been playing great lately throwing in some speed and power, and we think he has a ton of upside. Brantley has never really shown that he can bat for great power, but he does have 3 home runs in the last two weeks and we think that power stroke may have arrived. (about 30% owned)

Austin Jackson DET | OF

Everyone remembers the impact that Jackson had last year, and a lot of people were hoping that he could improve from his numbers from a year ago. That was not the case in the first month of the season, but Jackson has started to turn things around. He was dropped in a ton of leagues after his slow start, but he has raised his average about 80 points in the last 3 weeks, and it’s time to start picking him back up. (about 45% owned)

Add in deeper leagues

Jake Arrieta BAL | SP

When you look at Arrieta’s ERA you might be turned away, but he is worth a second look. In his 9 starts so far this year, he has had 7 quality starts and good K counts. He does have a small problem with walks, but this young pitcher is worth a roster spot in most leagues. (about 30% owned)

Fernando Salas STL | RP

The mess in the Cardinals bullpen continues, first it’s Boggs, then it’s Salas, then it’s Sanchez, and now it looks like it’s Salas again. We think Sanchez has better stuff to be the closer of the future, but Salas just keeps getting people out. He has only given up 2 earned runs all season, and we think he has the clear upper hand right now. (about 30% owned)

Jonathan Lucroy MIL | C

If you are in the market for a catcher then you might want to give Lucroy a gander. He is a youngster in a solid lineup, and we think there is a chance he could keep up solid numbers. We don’t suggest dropping anyone proven for him, but if you are looking for a backup catcher Lucroy could be a good fit. (about 15% owned)

Erick Aybar LAA | SS

Aybar isn’t going to blow you away with his numbers, but anytime you have a guy that can bat for average in a tough position to fill, then he is worth talking about. He is on pace for personal highs in the power categories, and he will throw in a few bags as well. (about 55% owned)

Johnny Peralta DET | 3B/SS

Peralta is a career .265 hitter, but he is off to a crazy hot start so far this year. When he first came up he was suppose to be the next big name SS, but after sub par years in ’09 and ’10 people have forgotten about him. It’s time to give him another look, he is only 29 years old, and he is capable of putting together a solid season. (about 60% owned)

Jason Bartlett SD | SS

Bartlett hasn’t done much since his amazing year in ’09. his numbers have been down across the board, and he has been pretty much forgotten about. He was drafted in most leagues this year, but after a slow start he was dropped almost universally. Bartlett is however showing signs of breaking out of his slump. He is batting around .300 in the month of May with 13 RBI’s, so it might be time to take a stab on him if you need help at shortstop. (about 10% owned)

Carlos Pena CHC | 1B

It’s amazing how quickly Pena declined as a player. His numbers have gone down each of the last four years, and he has lost the confidence of many people in the fantasy world. With that being said he probably will not give you any trade value if you pick him up, but he already has 5 HR’s in May and it looks like he might be on to something. (about 50% owned)

Todd Helton COL | 1B

After a terrible ’09 season it looked like the 37 year old Helton was done, but he might still have a little left in the tank. He is off to a hot start so far this year, and is worth a look in most leagues. He isn’t going to give you much trade value because of his age, but he could give your team a boost in batting average. (about 35% owned)

Justin Turner NYM | 2B

Turner has been around for awhile but has never had a chance for a starting gig. He currently is the starting second basemen for the Mets and he is taking full advantage. He is batting well over .300 and has thrown in a little bit of power. We aren’t sure if he will keep it up, but we think he is worth a look in deeper leagues if you need help at second base. (about 5% owned)

Alex White CLE | SP

White is trying to earn a spot in the Indians rotation, and he is off to a decent start. In his two outings he has 2 quality starts with good K counts. He has looked shaky at times, but if he continues to pitch like this the Indians first rounder from ’09 might be in the bigs for good. (about 10% owned)

After a slow start, Brett Gardner appears to be on the rebound and is worth an add in all leagues. (photo by Keith Allison)

Add in all leagues

Bud Norris HOU | SP

Norris was one of our favorite sleepers coming into the year, and lately he has been showing everyone why. He has had at least 6 K’s in every start so far this season, including an 11 strikeout performance in his last start against Milwaukee. It’s time to get Bud on your team if he is still available. (about 40% owned)

Justin Smoak SEA | 1B

There are a lot of things we like about Smoak, not only is he batting for average but he almost has as many walks as he does strikeouts. He is one of the best young bats in the game, and he needs to be universally owned. (about 40% owned)

Brett Gardner NYY | OF

Coming into the year it looked like Gardner was in line for a break out campaign, but after a slow start he dropped in a lot of leagues. He is batting well over .300 in the last 2 weeks, and if he happens to be available in your league then pick him up immediately. (about 70% owned)

Sergio Santos CWS | RP

Apparently only half of the fantasy leagues have noticed that Santos is the new closer for the White Sox. He is yet to give up an earned run this year, and we see no reason why he shouldn’t be universally owned at this point. (about 50% owned)

Frank Francisco TOR | RP

Jon Rauch has done ok as the Jays closer, but we think its time for Francisco to get his job back. Frank has pitched well since coming off the DL and we expect him to get the next save opportunity for the Jays in the 9th. (about 50% owned)

Mark Melancon HOU | RP

With Lyon out with a torn rotator cuff Melancon is going to be given every chance to take over the closer role. One thing that scares us is he doesn’t strikeout that many people, but he has been impressive this year only giving up 3 earned runs in just under 16 innings of work. (about 15% owned)

Alexi Ogando TEX | SP

Ogando has flourished in his new role as a starting pitcher. It looks like his spot in the starting rotation is very safe, and could be in line for a great year. He doesn’t walk that many guys and out of his 6 starts so far, 5 of them have been quality starts. (about 70% owned)

Eduardo Sánchez STL | RP

The Cardinals have been looking for a guy to replace Franklin, and in our opinion Sanchez looks to be that guy. He is a great young pitcher with closer stuff, and we think if he produces then the job is his. You can guarantee there will be some shaky outings, but with 19 K’s in only 11 innings we think he is worth an add. (about 10% owned)

Add in deeper leagues

Matt Joyce TB | OF

We talked about Joyce a couple weeks ago as a guy to maybe add in deeper leagues, but now we are saying consider him in all leagues. In his limited time in the majors he has shown flashes of power, and this year he is batting for average as well. He doesn’t always start when there is a lefty on the mound, but we still love the overall upside of Joyce. (about 15% owned)

Brett Wallace HOU | 1B

The Astros look to have a good young talent with Wallace. He has been very impressive so far this year, batting over .350 with some power thrown in as well. We don’t expect huge power numbers this year, but Wallace is proving he can bat for average and we think he is worth a look if you need some first base help. (about 35% owned)

Emilio Bonifacio FLA | SS/OF

Bonicacio has been a non-factor ever since his historic up and down season in ’09, but it’s time to start giving him another look. In most leagues he has dual position eligibility, and he has the potential to bat for average and throw in a good bit of speed. (about 5% owned)

Scott Sizemore DET | 2B

Sizemore has a lot of hype around him, but we think people are going to be a little more cautious with him after his terrible run in the bigs last year. He just got called back up for a second chance, and we think he is worth a pickup. It’s hard to say at this point what kind of numbers he might produce, but there is no denying his talent level. (about 5% owned)

Maicer Izturis LAA | 2B/3B/SS

Izturis isn’t going to blow you away with is power or speed, but he can give your team a little bit of everything. Another thing we really like about him is his position eligibility. In daily leagues he is the perfect utility guy to have on your bench and plug in if one of your regulars has an off day. (about 55% owned)

Wilson Ramos WAS | C

We were shocked to see how many leagues this young catcher was still available in. He is a young player with a big upside in a tough position to fill for fantasy teams, so we can’t make sense of it. Ramos is a great gamble in our opinion and we would take him over a lot of more proven catchers at this point. (about 15% owned)

Vance Worley PHI | SP

This young pitcher is making a bid for a spot in the Phillies rotation. He is filling in for the injured Joe Blanton, but we think there is a good chance that Worley holds onto the job. In 2 starts so far he has a K per inning a 2-0 record, and he has only allowed 1 earned run. (about 10% owned)

Eric Hosmer KC | 1B

Hosmer is one of the biggest prospects in baseball, and he is going to finally be able to show the world what he can do. He has been on fire in AAA and the Royals feel the young man is ready for the bigs. Look for him to instantly get throw into the starting lineup. (about 10% owned)