It’s a short week in baseball with the All-Star break, but it’s always smart to check the waiver wire or scout for the occasional ‘diamond in the rough’ fantasy star found at a very cheap cost. Winning the waiver wire could be the difference between grabbing a few extra points to land in the money or falling just short. Here’s a few hitters that might be available on your league waiver wire or could be found at a relatively low cost against favorable pitching matchups.
(Note: Stats and numbers are as of July 8th)
Monday, July 10: Home Run Derby at Marlins Park 8pm ET
While there’s no fantasy points involved in this one, this contest will be an entertaining one to watch. The Yankees and Marlins will both be sending two players to compete, as Giancarlo Stanton will look to defend his title as home run derby champion. Aaron Judge and Cody Bellinger, home run leaders in each of their separate leagues, will both be competing as well.
Tuesday, July 11: All Star Game at Marlins Park 7pm ET
The Houston Astros lead the way with six All-Stars as the American League looks to win their fifth straight contest. Starting pitchers are still unknown at the moment, but this will be the first time Mike Trout is not part of the all-star team since being called up to the majors in 2012. He will be out due to rehab for his torn thumb ligament.
Wednesday, July 12: No Games
Thursday, July 13: No Games
Friday, July 14: Adeiny Hechavarria (TB SS) vs LAA Jesse Chavez (5-9 4.97 ERA)
Hechavarria was sent over from Miami to Tampa Bay a few weeks ago and helped make an immediate impact on the Rays offense. In his first five games, he was 8-for-19 with three RBI. With Brad Miller and Matt Duffy on the disabled list until after the all-star break, Hechavarria will continue to get at-bats. Chavez has struggled for the Angels, his last win coming on June 6th against the Tigers. Right-handed batters are hitting .279 on the season against Chavez. Hechavarria is only owned in 13% of Fantrax leagues, so there’s a high chance he’s available on the waiver wire.
Saturday, July 15: Ji-Man Choi (NYY 1B) vs BOS David Price (4-2 4.02 ERA)
First base for the Yankees has been a revolving door of injuries this season between Greg Bird, Tyler Austin, Chris Carter, and Matt Holliday. Carter couldn’t hold down the spot, so the Yankees turned to Choi. In his first two starts with New York, Choi hit a home run in both games. Price faced the Yankees earlier in the season on June 8 and was tagged for six runs in five innings. There’s no guarantee that’ll happen again, but if Choi continues to hit, he should make for a cheap pick up to use in daily fantasy. Choi is only owned in 4% of Fantrax leagues and 0.6% of ESPN leagues.
Sunday, July 16: Cory Spangenberg (SD 2B/3B/OF) vs SF Jeff Samardzija (4-9 4.54 ERA)
Spangenberg is one of the few bright spots in the a San Diego offense, powering up four home runs with 12 RBI over the past month. His ability to play multiple positions allows him to be a valuable asset to a fantasy team. Samardzija has been part of a Giants rotation that has struggled all season. He’s posted a 2-5 record with a 4.81 ERA on the road this season. Spangenberg is 2-for-3 with a double against Samardzija this season. Spangenberg is only owned in 15% of Fantrax leagues, so there’s a solid chance he’s available if you need a fill-in player for the week.