It’s often said that the prospect growth curve is non-linear. This is true for most prospects who usually struggle at some point in their first few seasons. However, when their skills eventually adapt to the major leagues, the sky can be limit for their success potential. Just a few weeks into the season it appears several players early in their careers are figuring it out and producing at the highest level. Thus, I’ll feature several notable young players who are emerging as top waiver wire talents this week as a part of the growing youth movement in the game today.
In doing our weekly diligence, the criteria for inclusion will generally be any player rostered in less than 50% of Fantrax leagues (as of 4/16), with some exceptions. The popularity of Dynasty leagues on Fantrax does sway some of these percentages compared to other platforms, but these are players who should be on your radar.
Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Recommendations
Quinn Priester, SP, Milwaukee Brewers
For many young players, finding success can often come down to getting in the right situation. Fortunately for Quinn Priester, a recent trade from the Red Sox to the Brewers seems to have unlocked such an opportunity. Not only were the Brewers believers in Priester’s pedigree, but they had a glaring need for a viable arm to fill an open roster spot. As a result, Priester quickly entered the starting rotation in a relatively low-pressure situation. In his first two starts he’s excelled with only one earned run allowed over 10 innings pitched. With just seven hits allowed in that span, it’s clear luck hasn’t been a factor in Priester’s performance. The potential for him to sustain his early success makes him worthy of a top waiver wire priority status.
Alek Thomas, OF, Arizona Diamondbacks
While still just 24 years old, Alek Thomas has long been on the fantasy radar since his debut in 2022. Yet, his early minor league success hasn’t yet carried into the major leagues, as his stints with the Diamondbacks have been short and tumultuous. Now, back up with the club in a strong side platoon, he’s making the most of his opportunity already this season. So far, he’s batting .353 in his first 34 at-bats. Known for his power and speed combination in the minors, it’s likely we’ll see ongoing counting stat production in the near future.
Adael Amador, 2B, Colorado Rockies
Despite his rough debut in the majors last season, Amador has kept his confidence high and continued to produce in the minor leagues. In fact, Amador had barely had any AA-level experience when he was called up to the majors. Though after his eventual demotion back to the minors, we started to see the upside that Amador can bring. He ended the AA season with 14 home runs, 35 steals, and a .343 OBP. Already called up to the majors again this season, the hope is that he’ll get more opportunity for adjustment. This may mean not-so-spectacular results in the first weeks. Though there’s enough upside potential to bank on strong fantasy contributions at little cost on the waiver wire today.
J.T. Ginn, SP, Sacramento Athletics
Of all the new starting pitchers in the Athletics rotation this season, the biggest surprise so far has been J.T. Ginn. While he’s only made one start, he pitched a gem against the potent Mets lineup. In this outing, he only allowed one earned run in 5.1 innings while striking out six. While his minor league numbers are far from spectacular, we’ve seen many instances of pitchers shine after struggling in the PCL. The odds are even at best for Ginn to continue his hot start. Though he’s worth a speculative add for managers looking for pitching depth with upside.
Kameron Misner, OF, Tampa Bay Rays
While already 27 years old, rookie outfielder Kameron Misner has emerged from the depths of the Rays system to be a surprise contributor. Never a highly touted prospect, Misner has definitely taken the slow path to the majors over the last five seasons. Though the slow ascent has seemingly allowed him to polish his plate approach, as he held a .368 average OBP across his time in the minors. So far this season, he’s seeing the ball masterfully as he’s compiled 16 hits in his 40 at-bats. While the batting average will surely regress, his ability to draw walks could allow him to hang around the big leagues far into the season.
