Jonathan Cannon, SP, CWS (CBS: 2% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

After a couple of rough outings against Minnesota and Tampa Bay, Cannon bounced back nicely against the Mariners this week, tossing seven innings of four hits and one walk. He allowed a scant one earned run and chipped in with seven strikeouts. His effort against the M’s has earned him another start, possibly two, with the Astros and Tigers next up on the schedule.

Paul DeJong, SS, CWS (CBS: 21% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

Dejong has been one of the hottest players in the game and, with a solo shot last night, is up to 14 home runs on the season. To put this in perspective, only 15 baseball players have hit more homers than Paul DeJong this year.

Hunter Goodman, OF, COL (CBS: 3% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Elias Diaz has found his way to the IL with a calf strain. Brenton Doyle was a late scratch last night with left patella tendinitis. Goodman donned the catcher gear the previous night and went 4-for-5 with two homers and five RBI while scoring three runs. The power is real, and at least for the next short while, he’ll be able to display it.

David Hamilton, 2B/SS, BOS (CBS: 39% rostered, ESPN: 7% rostered)

Over the past seven games, David Hamilton has gone 9-for27 while accumulating two home runs and three stolen bases. That’s a lot of counting stats to like, and the Red Sox are enjoying it and moving him up in the lineup. The train is leaving the station, and it’s your last chance to get on board.

DJ Herz, SP, WAS (CBS: 4% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Yesterday, we witnessed a genuinely fantastic outing by DJ Herz. The 23-year-old righty tossed six innings of one-hit shutout ball with no walks while chipping in with 13 strikeouts. Yeah, it was the Marlins, but it has to have your attention when you get 13 of your 18 outs via the strikeout. Herz’s problem has always been the free passes, something he had under control yesterday, but we should be reminded that he walked 29 hitters in 36 IP at Triple-A this year, including a whopping total of 16 in a three-game span at the end of April/beginning of May. Bid tonight with caution, but definitely bid.

Tobias Myers, SP, MIL (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

We first mentioned Myers last week when he was only rostered to the tune of 3%. He has another solid start under his belt against the Jays and is rostered in only 13% at CBS. If you were sitting on the fence, it’s time to get off it and find a home for the 25-year-old righty.

Carlos Santana, 1B, MIN (CBS: 14% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

Very quietly, Carlos Santana has accumulated ten homers and 34 RBI this year. He has been very streaky thus far but is starting to heat up again, slugging two homers and driving in 11 runs in June. A small bid could upgrade your CI or UT slots in deeper leagues.

Tyler Soderstrom, C/1B, OAK (CBS: 11% rostered, ESPN: 3% rostered)

It has been a good week for Tyler Soderstrom. He has gone 6-for-19 with three homers and 6 RBI. He’s heating up and deserves a look as a #2 Catcher in two Catcher sets if he’s eligible. If not, there is always room at the corner-infield slot.

Jose Trevino, C, NYY (CBS: 8% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

During the year, Trevino has had up to seven home runs and 24 RBIs. Spectacular, no. Useful in 15-team and larger formats, you betcha!

The Closer Report

Dany Jimenez, RP, OAK (CBS: 3% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Since returning to the A’s bullpen at the beginning of June, Jimenez has allowed only one earned run in six appearances, lowering his ERA from 3.68 to 2.91. He has also accumulated holds in his past two appearances. In Leagues counting holds, he makes for a solid, inexpensive acquisition.

JoJo Romero, RP, STL (CBS: 19% rostered, ESPN: 17% rostered)

It has been a banner year for JoJo Romero. He’s currently sitting with a 1.89 ERA, three wins, 20 holds, and an outstanding 32/4 K/BB ratio. That’s a lot to like, especially when considering the possibility that Ryan Helsley could be on the move at the trade deadline.

Adael Amador, SS, COL (CBS: 12% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

This is likely a short-term situation, as Amador looks to slide into 2B, replacing Brendan Rodgers, who is dealing with a hamstring injury and found his way to the 10-day IL. Amador was on a roll, hitting three homers and swiping three bases in five June games at Double-A Hartford. There is no doubt he possesses skills. The question is, how long will he get to display those skills?

Alec Burleson, OF, STL (CBS: 42% rostered, ESPN: 9% rostered)

Since the calendar has moved into June, Alec Burleson has gone 8-for-30 with three home runs and 5 RBI. The injuries suffered by Lars Nootbaar and Tommy Edman have provided an opportunity that Burleson has seized.

Joey Estes, SP, OAK (CBS: 12% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

A strikeout per inning. Only six walks in his first 27 IP. Estes is off to a good start and worthy of a moderate bid this evening.

Spencer Horwitz, UT, TOR (CBS: 3% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

The Jays have called up Horwitz and DFA’d Cavan Biggio.  There is no doubting his ability to make contact, as he knows his way around the strike zone. It’s all about whether there is enough power and speed to carry him into a full-time role in Toronto. For now, he’s best left for AL-only and very large formats.

Hye-seong Kim, 2B, FA (CBS/ESPN: not listed)

Hye-seong Kim announced that he signed up with CAA, which will represent him in future posting negotiations. The name of the game with Kim is speed, roster flexibility, and great D. For those playing in Open Universe formats, it’s high time he was stashed away for the 2025 campaign.

Tyler Locklear, 1B, SEA (CBS: 4% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Success at Double-A led to an end-of-May promotion to Triple-A for Lockyear, and 40 at-bats later, he’s getting the call. The Mariners hope the 23-year-old can help spark an offense that could desperately use one.

Justyn-Henry Malloy, OF, DET (CBS: 9% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

The Tigers outfield is in flux, with only Riley Greene having long-term job security. There’s no point in beating around the bush. If Malloy hits, he will stick around. If he doesn’t, he goes back to Toledo. A small bid is in order, but keep the expectations in check.

Nick Martinez, SP/RP (CBS: 3% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Nick Martinez has now made 15 appearances this year, and the numbers look rather pedestrian on the surface. Digging a bit deeper, one finds that 10 of the 24 earned runs he has allowed this year came in two outings against the Padres and Phillies, two teams that can score some runs. The Reds have dispatched Graham Ashcraft to Triple-A Louisville, creating an opportunity for Martinez to display his skills. It’s time to find a home for him in 15-team Leagues.

Adam Mazur, SP, SDP (CBS: 14% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

The injuries to Yu Darvish and Joe Musgrove have forced the Padres’ hand, and they’ve turned to Adam Mazur for respite. In his debut, he went six innings against the Angels, allowing two hits and one earned run but four walks. The walks are troubling, but the leash will be fairly long. He has the DBacks next up today. Monitor the results closely, as they will come into play when determining a bid amount for this evening.

Max Meyer, SP, MIA (CBS: 35% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered)

Marlin’s manager, Skip Schumaker, said this week that he expects Max Meyer to return with the Marlins soon. “Soon” is very open-ended, but when you post a 2.12 ERA and garner two victories in your first three starts of the year, it should soon be as early as yesterday.

Tobias Myers, MIL (CBS: 3% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Joe Ross, Robert Gasser, DL Hall, and Jakob Junis are all on the IL. We have seen mixed results since Myers was inserted into the first-place Brewers rotation: success against Boston and Detroit and a blowup against the WhiteSox. The first-place Brewers will give Myers every opportunity to succeed. For those who don’t remember, Tobias Myers was the player the Guardians received when they traded Junior Caminero to the Rays back in the 2021 off-season.

Connor Norby, 2B, BAL (CBS: 18% rostered, ESPN: 3% rostered)

Since getting the call at the beginning of the week, Norby has played 4-of-7 games. He hit his first home run, but is 3-for-14 enough to remain in Baltimore once Jorge Mateo returns from his stint on the 7-day concussion IL? Bid accordingly in ReDraft formats.

James Outman, OF, LAD (CBS: 16% rostered, ESPN: 7% rostered)

Outman has slugged four homers, stolen four bases, scored 21 runs, and posted a 1.121 OPS in 59 at-bats since being demoted to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Posting numbers of this caliber is a pretty good indicator that he has very little to gain or improve upon down on the farm. It’s time to get him back up with the Dodgers, if even in a platoon situation.

Jack Suwinski, OF, PIT (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

The demotion to Triple-A Indianapolis was a short one, only 28 at-bats. The problem is the splits and his struggles against southpaws, but even with those struggles, Suwinski found a way to slug 26 homers and steal 13 bases in 447 at-bats in 2023. There is value for Fantasy Managers, even in a platoon scenario.

Drew Thorpe, SP, CWS (CBS: 12% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Late Breaking News! Thorpe is getting the call and scheduled to start Tuesday against the Mariners, with a possible second start against Arizona on Sunday. Go get him!

Michael Toglia, 1B/OF, COL (CBS: 2% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

The Rockies outfield has been a revolving door this season, with Brenton Doyle proving to be the only consistent option. It’s now Michael Toglia’s turn to get a kick-at-the-can, and he has played in three consecutive games, going 4-for-11 with 4 RBI. The power is real, as is the low BA, but in NL-only and deep Mixed Leagues, he’s worthy of a cheap dart toss.

Hurston Waldrep, SP, ATL (CBS: 19% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

We’ve seen the #1 and #3 prospects, AJ Smith-Shawver and Spencer Schwellenbach, as the Braves search for a fifth starter to round out their rotation. It only seems fitting that the #2 prospect, Huston Waldrep, gets the next opportunity. “There are many building blocks with a fastball that will touch 97 and a wicked splitter with tremendous fading action.” The question, as it is with so many young starters, is, can he consistently throw strikes? That question will be answered today when he makes his debut against the Nationals.

The Closer Report

Ryne Stanek, RP, SEA (CBS: 10% rostered, ESPN: 3% rostered)

Andres Munoz has been dealing with back issues going back to Spring Training and they have reached the stage where he is missing time, with the potential for an IL stint. Ryne Stanek is currently the best replacement option but has thus far proven to be very mortal. , although not the best but if you’re looking at trying to secure saves he could prove to be the guy the Mariners turn to should Munoz continue to deal with back problems and require an IL stint.

Miguel Andujar, OF, OAK (CBS: 7% rostered, ESPN: 3% rostered)

Andujar got the call on May 24, and saying he has been on a tear is an understatement. When you go 13-for-29 in your first seven games with two homers and 10 RBI you’re getting out of the gate strong. We’ve seen this before, so don’t go crazy with the spending tonight, as you won’t have to.

Ben Brown, SP, CHC (CBS: 45% rostered, ESPN: 15% rostered)

He has the 70-grade knuckle curve that is getting a 50% whiff, but not much else.  The fastball is average, and he’s only thrown his change-up six times.  Can he live on the curveball alone?  Not likely, and why his xERA is a run and a half higher than his ERA? (RW)

Nick Gonzales, 2B, PIT (CBS: 40% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

He’s still trying to hit everything a mile with a launch angle of 26 degrees.  To his credit, he does hit the ball hard.  He could have a long career if he starts to level out the swing just a little.  Candidly, he’s getting close. (RW)

Hogan Harris, SP, OAK (CBS/ESPN: not rostered)

My first impression of Harris’ stuff? It’s not bad at all.  All of his pitches are generating swings and misses, thanks to his good extension.  He may not have a blazing fastball, but if he can consistently throw strikes, he could be a reliable back-of-the-rotation starter.  However, control has been a challenge for him in the past. It’s a bit of a risk, but I might consider taking a chance on him.

Jake Irvin, SP, WAS (CBS: 22% rostered, ESPN: 5% rostered)

He doesn’t have a plus pitch but pounds the strike one.  His ERA is 3.23, and his xERA is sitting at 4.25.  The stuff points to a back-of-the-rotation guy. (RW)

Otto Lopez, 2B/3B, MIA (CBS: 6% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

The extra-base hits are few and far between, but the contact skills combined with decent speed are more than enough for the 25-year-old Otto to own the second base gig in Miami and occupy a spot in your lineup in the MI slot.

Parker Meadows, OF, DET (CBS: 11% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

The Tigers have made some interesting moves, including promoting Akil Baddoo. However, the potential return of Parker Meadows is a development worth keeping an eye on. Despite a slow start this Spring, Meadows has been on fire since being demoted to Triple-A Toledo in May, with 4 HR 10 RBI, 7 SB, and a .924 OPS. With Kerry Carpenter looking at an extended stint on the IL, it’s only a matter of time before we see Meadows back with the Tigers, potentially making him a valuable pickup.

Andrew McCutchen, UT, PIT (CBS: 7% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

Eight homers out of the leadoff slot to go along with 26 runs scored.

Joc Pederson, OF, ARZ (CBS: 31% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

As Rich and yours truly discussed on the Friday Podcast, could there be a more perfect replacement for the injured LaMonte Wade Jr.? A platooning power bat with seven home runs, 20 RBI, and a stellar .406 OBP is a sneaky and should be a relatively inexpensive option this week.

Geraldo Perdomo, 2B/SS, ARZ (CBS: 9% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Perdomo suffered a right meniscus tear 24 at-bats into the season and has been on the mend ever since. The rehab part of the program should move to the final stage, live games, this week, with a return as early as the second week of June. A little pop, a little bit more speed, and excellent strike zone judgment should guarantee an everyday role in the DBacks lineup.

Cody Poteet, SP, NYY (CBS: 1% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

The Clarke Schmidt injury has opened the door for the 29-year-old righthander. Pitched well against the Guardians on May 13, earning the W.

Brendan Rodgers, 2B, COL (CBS: 15% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

BABIP is a beautiful thing (.341).  Compared to Nick Gonzales’ 26-degree launch angle, Rodgers does not have much at all (4.3 degrees).  Adding some loft would help his cause.  He’s just a warm body at this point, but sometimes that’s what you need. (RW)

Spencer Schwellenbach, SP, ATL (CBS: 29% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered)

Let’s see what Rich Wilson says about the Braves #3 prospect and “biggest mover” heading into the 2024 campaign. “Spencer Schwellenbach was the Braves’ second-round pick in the 2021 Draft and immediately needed TJ Surgery. He missed the entire 2022 season.

He started as a shortstop at Nebraska before moving to the mound full-time. He’s athletic with a fastball in the low to mid-90s with the makings of a nice slider and change-up. I missed him both times the Augusta GreenJackets (get it???) came to Myrtle Beach, but the buzz was really good. The control improved as the season progressed, and in his three starts in High-A to end the season, he walked one in 13.2 innings, striking out 14.

The Braves are doing great work with their pitchers and quickly moving them through the system. I think Schwellenbach could join the Atlanta pitching train sometime in 2025.”

Nelson Velazquez, OF, KCR (CBS: 12% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

Five home runs in 10 games since May 22. There were a total of 7 hits in those same ten games. 17 HR last year in 162 at-bats. Power is real, as is the BA.

Mark Vientos, 3B, NYM (CBS: 18% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

Bret Baty has been shipped off to Triple-A Syracuse, opening the door for a steady diet of at-bats for Mark Vientos. He slugged a homer on Saturday, his third in the past two weeks, so he’s off to a good start. The Mets need something/someone/anything to bring some joy to Citi Field.

Matt Vierling, 3B/OF, DET (CBS: 30% rostered, ESPN: 16% rostered)

He hits the ball hard, has a ton of launch, decent contact skills, and can run.  Hmmm…, it seems pretty good to me.  Yeah, he’s aggressive at the plate, but there are skills here for a 15-15 player, maybe more. (RW)

Matt Waldron, SP, SDP (CBS: 41% rostered, ESPN: 5% rostered)

He has knuckled down, settled in, and is pitching quite well….. for a knuckleballer. Tim Wakefield would be very proud of his early accomplishments.

The Closer Report

Jalen Beeks, RP, COL (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Why do I always think of the the gorilla in Trading Places when his name pops up? Finally, we could have some stability in the Rockies bullpen. He’s definitely worthy of “trading places” with the

Yimi Garcia, RP, TOR (CBS: 17% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

Jays closer, Justin Romano, is again dealing with a sore elbow. He was held out of the 14-inning marathon Friday night and promptly dispatched to the IL Saturday morning. For how long? Who knows, but this is Romano’s second arm-related IL stint this year.  Further details will follow, but since this is the second time he’s already missed time with the same problem earlier in the year, it’s time to buy some insurance. Chad Green (CBS: 4% rostered)

Reed Garrett, RP, NYM (CBS: 43% rostered, ESPN: 12% rostered)

He has nasty stuff.  He doesn’t throw a fastball often and instead relies on a cutter.  He also throws a splitter and sweeper.  The split gets a 57% whiff rate, and the sweeper gets a 38% whiff rate. Throw in his cutter at a 36% whiff rate, and now you might understand the meaning of nasty.  The only fly in the ointment is he has below-average control.  It’s not horrible, but there will be some white-knuckle moments.  Otherwise, he’s money.

Jeff Hoffman, RP, PHI (CBS: 28% rostered, ESPN: 9% rostered)

You can lead a Fantasy Manager to Saves, but as evidenced by my repeated recommendations on April 1, April 14, and May 26 and the fact that Hoffman is still available in 72% of the Leagues playing at CBS, you can’t convince them to invest. If my constant prodding isn’t enough, maybe the 3 Saves in his past 6 appearances will be enough.

Bryan Hudson, RP, MIL (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 8% rostered)

A little bit both off and under the radar, Hudson is proving to be quite an asset in leagues that count holds and as an injury replacement in deeper formats. He’s now up to 7 holds with a 1.13 ERA and most importantly 37 strikeouts in 32 IP.

We have updated our Closer Report.  It can be found here.

We have updated our Closer Report.  It can be found here.

Ji-Hwan Bae, 2B/OF, PIT (CBS: 5% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Take the 1.030 OPS that Bae posted at Triple-A  Indianapolis this year with a grain of salt, but the overall improvement in the walk rate is positive. You are looking at a 20+ SB threat with limited power potential. In deeper Leagues, that carries value, even in a platoon situation.

Kris Bryant, 1B/OF, COL (CBS: 36% rostered, ESPN: 5% rostered)

There is nothing that can be said that hasn’t already been said. Bryant has four years and $108 million remaining on his contract with the Rockies. When healthy, he will play. It won’t cost much to see if it is at a level that helps your Fantasy squad.

Henry Davis, C/OF, PIT (CBS:17% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

The Henry Davis we saw in the Spring has finally appeared; unfortunately, it’s at Triple-A Indianapolis. The dynamic duo of Yasmani Grandal and Joey Bart are not the future in the “Steel City.” If you have the room on your reserve roster, a small bid will put you ahead of the game when he eventually gets the call.

David Fry, C/1B/OF, CLE (CBS: 48% rostered, ESPN: 21% rostered)

A backup Catcher and afterthought heading into 2024 is absolutely rocking it for the Guardians. Thus far, he has slugged six homers, driven in 19 runs, scored 22 runs, and posted an impressive 1.128 OPS. Fry is leading the charge to show the biggest return on investment in 2024.

Danny Jansen, (CBS: 42% rostered, ESPN: 12% rostered)

Jansen has 25 hits this year in 81 at-bats. Fifteen of those hits are of the extra base variety. That could help explain the .617 SLG.

Colt Keith, 2B/3B, DET (CBS: 36% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

We have a Colt Keith sighting. Over the past seven games, he has gone 10-for-23 and hit his first career home run. We shouldn’t forget the 27 home runs he hit last year between Double and Triple-A. Our early-season patience is being rewarded.

David Peterson, SP, NYM (CBS: 2% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

The wounded are slowly starting to return to Citi Field. The rehab stint has concluded for Peterson, and if the 35 strikeouts in 23 2/3 IP and 1.14 ERA are any indication, he’s ready to roll. He’s scheduled to face off against the Dodgers this Wednesday. You want a share but not on your active roster this week.

Tommy Pham, OF, CWS (CBS: 29% rostered, ESPN: 10% rostered)

It’s time to mention Tommy Pham again. Thus far, he has three homers, 12 RBI, 17 runs scored, and a great .327 BA in 107 at-bats. There are only two ways he loses playing time in Chicago. He’s traded or injured.

Cade Povich, SP, BAL (CBwS: 15% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Povich is enjoying a very good 2024 season at Triple-A Norfolk. The only concern would be the walk rates, which are still fairly high. At some point, the Orioles will have to look for a #4/5 type starter, with John Means and Dean Kremer finding their way to the IL this week. If the O’s pursue the internal option, Cade Povich should be keeping close to his phone.

Cal Quantrill, SP, COL (CBS: 28% rostered, ESPN: 7% rostered)

Quantrill wasn’t predicted to repeat the small sample size produced in 2020 but did precisely that in 2021 and 2022 before struggling through a tough 2023 campaign. The move to the Rockies this year wasn’t cause for optimism, but he’s again confounding the critics, producing a spectacular (for Colorado) 3.59 ERA and the usual low strikeout rates. Maybe the 2023 season will prove to be the outlier.

Keibert Ruiz, C, WAS (CBS: 26% rostered, ESPN: 44% rostered)

Ruiz missed 11 games while dealing with the influenza, which clearly affected his play. He finally looks to be back to full strength as over the past 14 days, he has slugged one homer, driven in 7 runs, and is batting to a .300 BA. Our pre-season #15’th ranked Catcher is finally rounding into form.

Masyn Winn, SS, STL (CBS: 33% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

Winn is very quietly enjoying a very good 2024 campaign. He has even been spotted at the top of the order recently. A .793 OPS deserves a bit more love than he currently receives.

Jacob Young, OF, WAS (CBS: 41% rostered, ESPN: 7% rostered)

We mentioned Jacob Young in the April 28th article when he had amassed six stolen bases. A month later, and he’s now up to 15 thefts on the season. Until James Wood arrives, center field is his to own. When Wood arrives, it is quite possibly not so much. Take the speed while it’s there for the taking.

The Closer Report

Jeff Hoffman, RP, PHI (CBS: 21% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

Jose Alvarado hasn’t lost the closer job in Philly, but he does have two holds in the past two weeks supporting Jeff Hoffman’s saves. Hoffman is now up to 4 saves on the year and possesses a stellar 1.19 ERA. The fact that he’s in the FA pool in 79% of the Leagues at CBS screams opportunity at hand.

Jordan Beck, OF, COL (CBS: 20% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

We mentioned Beck back on May 5 when he first got called up, and the concern at that time was whether he would find his way into regular at-bats. The answer appears to be yes, and with two homers in his past three games, that trend should continue.

Josh Bell, 1B, MIA (CBS: 33% rostered, ESPN: 28% rostered)

Bell has gone 10-for-28 with two homers and 9 RBI over his past seven games. Not only will the Marlins appreciate the boost in power, but so will your Fantasy squad.

Roansy Contreras, SP, LAA (CBS: 1% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Here’s a name for Dynasty and AL-only Leagues. The Pirates had enough of the struggles of Roansy Contreras and placed him on waivers before trading him to the Angels. He’s only 24 years old and was not all that long ago a highly-rated prospect. For a few bucks, it’s worth taking the chance to see if a rebound could be in order.

Nolan Gorman, 2B, STL (CBS: 53% rostered, ESPN: 11% rostered)

On April 22, Gorman hit a home run. His next homer was 13 games later, on May 10. Since then, he’s added two more. It appears that he’s off on another streak. A streak that we shouldn’t be ignoring.

Corey Julks, OF, CWS (CBS/ESPN: not rostered)

Julks was traded by Houston to Chicago on Wednesday and was called up two days later. He enjoyed a solid year on the farm with five homers and 6 SB in 124 at-bats. Why not see what he has to offer.  At the very least, he should have a short-side platoon with Gavin Sheets and the interest of those playing in deep and single League formats.

Luis Matos, OF, SFG (CBS: 6% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

Matos went 3-for-5 with a pair of doubles and 5 RBI Friday night against the Rockies. On Saturday, he upped his game even further, going 3-for-5 with a homer and 6 RBI. That’s a good month for some players in just two days. Can we lobby for retro stats? This hot start will be cause for some serious spending this evening.

Dylan Moore, 2B/SS/OF, SEA (CBS:6% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Moore has done a great job filling in for J.P. Crawford at short (3HR,11 RBI, 351 OBP in 50 May AB) and with Jorge Polanco now dealing with a hamstring issue, should continue getting opportunities. Roster flexibility counts.

Joey Ortiz, 2B/3B, MIL (CBS: 32% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

He got out of the gate slow, but since the calendar turned from April to May, he has really upped his game. He now has hit four homers and is sporting a .405 OBP in 38 at-bats this month. That more than qualifies as getting it done!

Kevin Pillar, OF, LAA (CBS: 3% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

Pillar is now up to 4 homers, 18 RBI, six stolen bases, and a great .323 BA. He’s poised to have his best season since 2019. He is on the wrong side of a platoon, but as long as he stays hot, the at-bats in Anaheim are there for the taking.

Luke Raley, 1B/OF, SEA (CBS: 7% rostered, ESPN: 3% rostered)

In five games this week, Raley has gone 8-for-20 with two home runs, 5 RBI, and a pair of stolen bases. We finally have a Luke Raley sighting in Seattle!

Jeffrey Springs, SP, TBR (CBS:18% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

Springs is heading to Florida this week and the start of his rehab assignment. If you happen to forget how well he performed before the TJS, look at the numbers he posted in 2022. It will motivate you to spend a penny now to save a dollar in about three weeks.

Andrew Vaughn, 1B, CWS (CBS: 32% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

We finally have an Andrew Vaughn sighting. He hit his first home run of the year on May 10 and since has added a couple more. Has he turned a corner as he looks to repeat that solid 21-80 2023 campaign?

Miguel Vargas, 2B, LAD (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

There is no doubting the skills as Vargas has drilled eight homers, drove in 39 runs, and swiped eight bases in 139 at-bats at Triple-A Oklahoma City. The question is, will he get enough at-bats in LA to warrant the cost of the investment? Tread carefully.

Michael Wacha, SP, KCR (CBS: 47% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

He’s coming off two very good outings against the Angels and Mariners and has Detroit and Tampa Bay next up in a two-start week. He should have your attention in shallow Leagues where you might be streaming SP.

Ryan Weathers, SP, MIA (CBS: 17% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

It has been an up-and-down season for Weathers, but he’s coming off three quality starts, one against the Dodgers. Next up is a two-start week against the Brewers and DBacks and a potential opportunity to make up some ground in the pitching categories.

Mike Yastrzemski, OF, SFG (CBS: 18% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

“Yaz” is a 20-home run bat that strikes out too often. He also plays for the Giants, a team currently needing outfielders in the worst of ways. He will get the opportunity to play every day, quite possibly in the leadoff spot. That holds value in larger formats.

The Closer Report

Yimi Garcia, RP, TOR (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 5% rostered)

Garcia has not only been the Jays’ best reliever this year but one of the best in the game. His record supports that claim as he earned two saves, seven holds, and a minuscule .50 ERA and .61 WHIP. Jordan Romano has been far from dominant this year and could be one slump from Garcia cutting into his ninth-inning gig.

Adam Ottavino, RP, NYM (CBS: 7% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered)

Edwin Diaz has been dreadful the past week, allowing seven earned runs in his past three appearances. He might be due for a break from closing, leaving Adam Ottavino and maybe even Reed Garrett (23K’s in 37 IP) as the probable benefactors. It’s very likely a short-term situation, but a save is a save is a save.

Emilio Pagan, RP, CIN (CBS: 1% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Alexis Diaz hasn’t been much better than his older brother. He has allowed four earned runs in his past two outings and is now sporting a 7.47 ERA. It will likely be a committee scenario should he be relieved of his ninth-inning duties, with Emilio Pagan currently the best option from a group including Lucas Sims and Fernando Cruz.

We have updated our Closer Report.  It can be found here.

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Jake Bauers, 1B/OF, MIL (CBS: 1% rostered, ESPN: not rostered)

Between First Base and the Outfield, very quietly Bauers is proving to be a competent addition to the Brewer’s offense. Three homers, four thefts, and 17 RBI as your fifth outfielder will get the job done in larger formats.

Dairon Blanco, OF, KCR (CBS: 3% rostered, ESPN: 1%rostered)

He’s a burner and coming off the bench has amassed 10 thefts in only 34 at-bats. If you have the “need for speed”, he will fill that need.

Taj Bradley, SP, TBR (CBS: 59% rostered, ESPN: 10% rostered)

The pectoral strain suffered this Spring delayed his 2024 season until Friday, when he made his 2024 debut against the mighty Yankee offense. He held them in check over six innings, allowing but a single earned run and chipping in with seven strikeouts.  If Bradley slipped through the cracks, find a home for him right smartly.

Jonny DeLuca, OF, TBR (CBS: 25% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

The hope was that we’d see a Junior Caminero promotion, but Jonny DeLuca could prove to be a solid consolation prize. His Minor League numbers show solid power/speed potential and the ability to get to first via the free pass. With 10 RBI in his first 8 games as a Ray, don’t be sleeping on the upside potential.

Robert Gasser, SP, MIL (CBS: 14% rostered, ESPN: 3% rostered)

It was the Cardinals, but 6 innings of two-hit, no walk shutout ball is still impressive, and based on his Minor League numbers this year, also surprising. Gasser has Pittsburgh, San Francisco, and Atlanta next up on the schedule and in the words of the late-great Meatloaf, “Two Out Of Three Ain’t Bad.”

Zach Neto, SS, LAA (CBS: 24% rostered, ESPN: 5% rostered)

After a slow start, May has been much kinder to the 23-year-old shortstop. Neto has slugged a pair of home runs, swiped a couple of bases and is 10-for-36 at the dish this month. He’s quickly turning into a viable option at middle-infield, in deeper Leagues.

Reese Olson, SP, DET (CBS: 54% rostered, ESPN: 7% rostered)

The fact that Olson is still waiting for his first win of the 2024 campaign shouldn’t be cause for one to shy away from finding a spot for him in your Fantasy team’s rotation. The 2.52 ERA and 1.12 WHIP with a pinch shy of a strikeout-per-inning over his first seven starts speaks volumes as to his capabilities.

Davis Schneider, 2B/OF, TOR (CBS: 14% rostered, ESPN: 3% rostered)

The Jays and that anemic offense (currently tied for second worst in Runs Scored), are looking for any spark that could be cause for improvement. Could Davis Schneider prove to be that spark? When you’re posting an OPS that is +.300 points higher than your principal competition, Cavan Biggio, it has to be cause for an increase in playing time.

Jon Singleton, 1B, HOU (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered)

Jose Abreu didn’t get the job done and is working on getting his swing right in the Arizona Complex League. With no timetable for a return, Jon Singleton looks to be the Astros best option at First Base and has backed it up by slugging two homers in his past six games.

James Wood, OF, WAS (CBS: 50% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered)

When you’ve hit 7 homers, stolen 9 bases and are sporting a 1.047 OPS in 131 Triple-A at-bats, how much more do you have to prove? It’s only a matter of time before James Wood arrives and that time should be drawing near.

The Closer Report

Luis Garcia, RP, LAA (CBS/ESPN: not rostered)

How long do the Angels continue to roll out Carlos Estevez and his 6+ ERA? Luis Garcia is not enjoying a stellar 2024, but it’s better than the current option.

Griffin Jax, RP, MIN (CBS: 28% rostered, ESPN: (9% rostered):

The Twins closer is Jhoan Duran but Rocco Baldelli will not hesitate to use him in high leverage situations, something he has done three times in Duran’s six appearances this year. Expect Griffin Jax to amass more saves than the average 8’th inning reliever.

Jordan Leasure, RP, CWS (CBS: 5% rostered, ESPN: (not rostered)

It’s a true committee on the South Side. Leasure will get saves over the balance of the year. How many is up for debate, but being he currently has the lowest ERA (2.20) of the Kopech/Brebbia/Leasure committee, it could be more than expected.

Trevor Megill, RP, MIL (CBS: 34% rostered, ESPN: 6% rostered)

Uribe didn’t get it done and was dispatched to Triple-A. Joel Payamps is still around but of-late mostly ineffective. That leaves Trevor Megill to hold down the fort in the ninth, and with four saves in his past five appearances and a sub-1 ERA and WHIP it could be a long and successful run.

Tyler Black, 3B, MIL (CBS: 30% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered): That short compact swing should provide plenty of opportunities for Black to spray the ball all over the park and get on base. Temper the power expectations, but he will steal bases and provide a solid BA/OBP base.

Jordan Beck, OF, COL (CBS: 31% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered): The power/speed mix is intriguing, assuming the Rockies do the right thing and give him a solid chance to play full-time. So far, so good.

Mike Clevinger, CWS (CBS: 10% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered): He’s now gone through the Spring Training portion of the program and could be activated early next week against the Rays. It is the White Sox, and his offensive support will be lean, but we have seen Clevinger pitch to better than a 4 ERA every year except one since 2017.

Vaughn Grissom, SS, BOS (CBS: 44% rostered, ESPN: 15% rostered): Grissom was activated Friday and batted seventh in the order, going 0-fer. I like the hit tool, but will there be enough power and speed to warrant a roster spot in anything other than the deepest of Leagues? My bids this evening will reflect those concerns.

Alek Manoah, SP, TOR (CBS: 39% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered): The Jays need his arm in that rotation badly, and after one very successful start, he has gotten the nod and will be starting this afternoon against Washington. The results will go a long way in determining the FAAB spent tonight.

Coby Mayo, 3B, BAL (CBS: 34% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered): When you’ve started the season with 11 homers, 31 RBI, 25 runs scored, and a 1.018 OPS in 134 at-bats, you will force the stacked O’s hand. That time could be drawing very near, as he has absolutely nothing left to prove at Triple-A.

John Means, SP, BAL (CBS: 42% rostered, ESPN: 9% rostered): In his season debut, Means tossed seven innings of three-hit shutout ball with no walks and eight strikeouts against the Reds last night. That’s a pretty solid indicator that he’s healthy and ready to reap giant FAAB bids tonight.

Victor Mesa Jr., OF, MIA (CBS: 1% rostered, ESPN: not rostered): The Marlins are looking to the future, which should include Victor Mesa Jr.  Let’s turn to Rich for his thoughts.  “With as poor of an offensive club as the Marlins are, you must believe that Victor Mesa Jr. will get the call soon.  He’s a plus defender with solid contact skills and above-average power.  He is aggressive at the plate and will expand the strike zone.  Because of that, I worry he’ll struggle at the Major League level.  Still, there’s enough in the profile to warrant a speculative pick in a one-year league.  He should be owned in all Dynasty Leagues.”

Mickey Moniak, OF, LAA (CBS: 5% rostered, ESPN: not rostered): Mike Trout will miss 6 to 8 weeks with the meniscus injury, and Moniak looks to be the principal beneficiary. He hit 14 homers in 311 at-bats last year and slammed a three-run shot Friday, so the potential for at least some power production until Trout returns is at hand.

Tyler Nevin, 1B/3B/OF, OAK (CBS: 17% rostered, ESPN: 7% rostered): Nevin has been on a tear and is now up to 4 homers, 10 RBI, and an incredible 302 BA. He is also 1B/3B/OF eligible, a very nice bonus. Is it sustainable? Who knows, but with Ryan Noda dispatched to Triple-A, he’ll get plenty of opportunities to provide us with that answer.

Wenceel Perez, 2B/OF, DET (CBS: 16% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered): The slow starts by both Colt Keith and Parker Meadows have been causing Perez to work his way into regular at-bats, and the 24-year-old has responded in fine form. A little pop and solid speed are there for the taking.

Bryan Ramos, 3B, CWS (CBS: 4% rostered, ESPN: not rostered): The White Sox aren’t going anywhere, so it’s time to look at the future, hence Bryan Ramos getting the call. After a dreadful start, Ramos has gone 11-for-33 with 2 HR and 7 RBI over the past eight games at Double-A Birmingham. With no at-bats over Double-A, it’s an aggressive approach, but why not?

Sem Robberse, SP, STL (CBS: 2% rostered, ESPN: not rostered): The injury suffered by Steven Matz has left the Cards rotation a tad light. It was a tad light before the injury. On the farm, Sem Robberse has gotten off to a great start, posting a 1.77 ERA and strikeout-per-inning. He doesn’t possess the “big” fastball, but a quality four-pitch mix (slider/cutter/change/4-seamer) has proven successful. For those interested in some trivia, the 22-year-old also shares the same hometown as Bert Blylevin. A small bid is in order, especially for those playing in Dynasty Leagues.

Josh Rojas, 2B/3B, SEA (CBS: 13% rostered, ESPN: 4% rostered): J.P. Crawford is on the IL, dealing with an oblique issue, and is likely at least several weeks away from a return. In the interim, Dylan Moore has moved to short, with Rojas sliding in third. In his past seven games, Rojas has gone 7-for-17 with a pair of homers and, on occasion, has hit at the top of the order. In deeper Leagues, he’s worthy of our attention.

Christian Scott, SP, NYM (CBS: 49% rostered, ESPN: 10% rostered): “Scott is being promoted from Triple-A Syracuse to give the Mets a six-man rotation while they play 26 games in 27 days, and manager Carlos Mendoza wouldn’t commit to giving the 24-year-old right-hander more than one start” After an excellent debut yesterday against the Rays in which he tossed 6 1/3 innings of one-run ball, I have a hunch that a second start is in the cards and it will cost a good chuck of that FAAB to see that start on your Fantasy squad.

Edmundo Sosa, 3B, PHI (CBS: 1% rostered, ESPN: not rostered): You don’t replace Trea Turner; you simply fill in for the next six weeks until that hamstring is healthy enough to allow him to be back in the Phillies lineup. It appears that Sosa has the job.

Abraham Toro-Hernandez, 2B/3B, OAK (CBS: 4% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered): Over his past seven games, Toro-Hernandez has gone 11-for-20 with one homer, 4 RBI, and seven runs scored. In the words of the late great Jerry Reed, “When You’re Hot, You’re Hot.” Take advantage of the opportunity.

The Closer Report

Danny Coulombe, RP, BAL (CBS: 5% rostered, ESPN: 1% rostered): Craig Kimbrel has been dealing with back tightness and was removed last night after struggling badly and getting only one out. Yennier Cano came in to get the final two outs and nail down the save. Cano appears next in line should Kimbrel continue to struggle, but is he? Are the O’s more comfortable with Cano working the eighth inning? Only time will tell, but with one save and seven holds already in the books, Coulombe will be in the mix for high-leverage opportunities.

Lucas Erceg, RP, OAK (CBS: 6% rostered, ESPN: 2% rostered): Mason Miller has been lights out and is in no danger of losing his job, but Lucas Erceg has been equally as good. He is sporting a stellar 1.93 ERA, with 20 strikeouts in 14 IP, two saves (both in the past week), and seven holds. Miller will need his days off, and having an option of strength in Erceg is a positive for both the A’s and your Fantasy team.

Hector Neris, RP, CHC (CBS: 48% rostered, ESPN: 14% rostered): Neris currently has the closer role for the Cubbies. Although the walks have to be a concern, take every save you can get while the getting is good.

Alex Lange, RP, DET (CBS: 26% rostered, ESPN: 34% rostered): Jason Foley has allowed nine hits in his past four outings (2 1/3 IP) and four earned runs. The velocity is down. It might be time to give Alex Lange and that .75 ERA another look.