Kenley Jansen has a good chance to take over as the Dodgers closer as Brandon League continues to struggle. (photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports)

Our Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Pickups article takes a 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. Let’s take a look at some players that might be worth scooping off the waiver wire heading into Week 8 of the MLB season. If you have any questions on who to pick up or who to drop, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Kenley Jansen LAD | RP

I am a huge fan of Jansen and I was actually pretty surprised when I heard the Dodgers were going to start the year with League as their closer. At this point though it looks like Jansen could take over the 9th inning duties at any moment. League has had his moments in the past, but Jansen is just too special of a pitcher to not give him a chance to close ballgames. (about 65% owned)

James Loney TB | 1B

We talked about Loney in our last waiver wire article and since then he has been picked up in about 40% of leagues. He has been playing amazing this year, but until recently fantasy owners weren’t believing his numbers. Let’s not forget that Loney has had solid years in the past and at 29 years old he could be looking at a breakout year. At this point I think Loney is a must add in all leagues just in case he is able to continue this hot bat. (about 40% owned)

Justin Morneau MIN | 1B

It’s no secret that I am a huge Morneau fan, so it makes me really happy to see him playing well again. The former league MVP for the Twins is batting well over .300 this year and he is tied for 15th in the league in RBIs. He hasn’t hit that many 4-baggers this year, but if he is batting for average and giving you RBIs then that should be enough for most fantasy teams. (about 65% owned)

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Gerardo Parra ARI | OF

When you look at the career numbers from Parra, nothing jumps out as being amazing. However, he is solid in a lot of areas and I think he could be on the verge of a breakout year. He already has 18 extra base hits this year and he is batting well over .300. When you throw in that he will have double digit steals, I think this makes Parra an interesting all around fantasy option for your outfield. (about 45% owned)

Scott Kazmir CLE | SP

I know Kazmir hasn’t really done much since 2008, but he is still only 29 and I think the potential is still there. He was one of the most exciting young arms in the game 5 years ago and he is starting to show us flashes of his former self. I am expecting him to be inconsistent, but with 28 Ks in 25 innings of work so far this year I think he is worth a gamble in most leagues. (about 30% owned)

Oswaldo Arcia MIN | OF

The Twins might have a winner on their hands with this young outfielder from Venezuela. He was a stud in the minors for them over the last couple of years and he has seen instant success so far in the majors. You aren’t going to get a ton of speed from Arcia, but he certainly has the potential to bat for over .300 with decent power. I am not sure if he can keep up his current pace, but if you need help in your outfield I think he’s well worth a roster spot. (about 15% owned)

Mitch Moreland TEX | 1B

Moreland is quietly putting together a great year and at this point he needs to be owned in more leagues. He already has 19 extra base hits including 9 home runs and he is batting just under .300. This 27 year old has had some hype around him in the past, but it seems that fantasy owners have written him off for some reason. This kid has a huge upside and at this point I consider him a great add if you need help at first base. (about 35% owned)

Keep an eye on

Francisco Liriano PIT | SP

True Liriano will never go back to what he was before his Tommy John surgery, but he still has the potential to help out your fantasy team. He has huge strikeout potential and with the Pirates playing a lot better these days, he could help you out with wins as well. I am not ready to call him any kind of must add, but he is certainly a guy to keep a very close eye on and he is worth an add if you are looking to take a gamble on someone. (about 25% owned)

Hector Santiago CWS | SP/RP

There are a lot of things I like about Santiago, but some things that I don’t. I am a huge fan of his strikeout potential and what he has done so far this year since joining the rotation. However, his starting spot isn’t guaranteed and once everyone is healthy for the White Soxs he could be headed back to the pen. I think he has a huge upside, but until he has a spot locked up in their rotation I can’t call him a must add at this point. (about 25% owned)

David Phelps NYY | SP

Phelps has been solid thus far for the Yankees and I am surprised he isn’t getting a little more attention in the fantasy world. He is barely owned in 10% of leagues currently and that’s a little surprising for a guy that has over a K per inning and plays for the Yankees. Once Nova comes back from injury he might have to move back to the bullpen, but Phelps could possibly pitch well enough to hold onto his starting gig. (about 10% owned)

Dodgers rookie starting pitcher Hyun-Jin Ryu has been one of the biggest early-season surprises so far this season. (photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports)

Everyone remembers the name that took fantasy baseball by storm in 2012: Mike Trout. While his breakout season was epic, every year there are rookies who burst onto the scene from relative obscurity. They may be kids, but every year they’re making more and more of an impact on both major league teams and fantasy owners alike. These diamonds in the rough can provide a huge lift to your team, and today we’re going to examine a few of these first year difference makers.

Evan Gattis ATL | C

With Brian McCann out the first month of the season, the Braves could either hand the reins to Gerald Laird, or give the rookie Gattis a shot. The former janitor, ski-lift operator, and pizza boy took the job and ran with it, all the way to Rookie of the Month honors for April. He’s not a batting average guy, but from the C slot he’s slugged 7 HR and driven in 19 already. McCann has returned, but Atlanta has been playing Gattis in the outfield to get his bat in the lineup – positional flexibility for your fantasy lineup is not far off.

Jose Fernandez MIA | SP

After a rash of injuries beset the Marlins ‘starting rotation’, Fernandez was called up early and debuted on April 7th. All he did was strike out 8 Mets in 5 innings, allowing one run, and becoming the first waiver wire instant addition of 2013. Fernandez then went on to allow 9 earned runs over his next 15 innings, leading many to give him the boot. Give Jose another strong look, however. Despite playing in the sinkhole that is Miami, over his last two outings he’s given up just two earned runs over 11 innings, while striking out 13. The kid has big league stuff and is a great low-risk addition to almost any team.

Hyun-Jin Ryu LAD | SP

He may look more like a professional hotdog eater than a major league starting pitcher, but Ryu has made his presence felt in the Dodgers’ rotation this season. With Zach Greinke out, the rest of the LA rotation read like this: Beckett, Lilly, Capuano. A lift was needed, and Ryu has been the man. He’s spun quality starts in 5 of 7 outings so far and provided 48 K in 43 innings pitched. As the Dodgers get healthy and begin to click, Ryu’s value will rise. He’s an excellent #4 or #5 starter for any team, with room to grow.

Nolan Arenado COL | 3B

Widely considered the top hitting prospect in the Rockies organization, Arenado was not called up until April 28th to keep his service time down. Since then, all he’s done is rake, and if he’s unowned in your league, it’s time to pay attention. He’s homered three times in 34 at bats, including a grand slam off David Price on May 4th. He’s batted all over the Rockies potent lineup, and has settled in the top half, where he will have ample opportunities to produce runs and RBI. It doesn’t hurt that he’ll play half his games in the thin Colorado air. Arenado looks like a rookie to hold on to for the balance of 2013.

Jedd Gyorko SD | 2B, 3B

The fantasy community made much of Gyorko during draft season, including yours truly advising many to be sure to pick him up in the later rounds or off the wire. Well, I looked pretty stupid for the first month, as on April 29th, Jedd was batting .236 with 0 home runs and an OBP of .303 – simply dreadful. Since that time, everything has clicked for the Padres infielder. He’s hit 3 home runs, driven in 6, and raised his average to .271. With his multi-positional eligibility, improved batting eye, and surging Padres lineup around him, Gyorko is worth at least a speculative add in almost all formats.

Marcell Ozuna MIA | OF

They say when you have nothing you have nothing to lose. This aptly describes the Miami Marlins this season. They have thrown caution to the wind in the absence of Giancarlo Stanton in their search for power, and thus Marcell Ozuna finds himself in the bigs despite his lack of a single at-bat at the AAA level. He’s shown power in the minors and more or less raked at all levels, and Marcell isn’t worried about his lack of experience – he’s come out of the gates at a .419 clip, and has quickly moved to the top-middle of the thin Marlins lineup. He passes the eye test too, not looking overwhelmed or swinging at pitches way out of the zone. Deep leaguers would do well to make room for Ozuna on their teams, and mixed leaguers should definitely be watching as well.

Oswaldo Arcia MIN | OF

Arcia has come into the fantasy spotlight over the past two weeks after batting .400 with a homer, 7 runs scored, and 6 RBI. He’s hitting toward the bottom of the Twins lineup, but is progressing quickly and should move up soon. He batted .393/.474/.727 at AAA, which earned him a call up just shy of his 22nd birthday. He’s basically available in all leagues, and profiles as a potential high batting average fourth outfielder. If you’re playing in a deeper format, make room for Oswaldo.

Didi Gregorious AZ | SS

2013 may just be the year of the budget shortstop, and Gregorious is leading the charge. He came from nowhere to post a .338 AVG and .434 OBP thus far, and can be found hitting out of the 2-hole in the powerful Diamondbacks lineup. The sample size is small so far (only 49 total AB as of 5/11) but he crushed the ball in AAA before being called up, and the batting situation in Arizona is ideal. He’s available in more than 75% of leagues right now, and if you drafted Reyes, Hanley, Aybar, or want to give Rollins or Prado a night off, consider Gregorious.

Tony Cingrani is a must-own player right now with a 1.50 ERA, 0.89 WHIP and 28/4 K/BB ratio through his first 18 major league innings. (photo by Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports)

Our Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Pickups article takes a 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. Let’s take a look at some players that might be worth scooping off the waiver wire heading into Week 6 of the MLB season. If you have any questions on who to pick up or who to drop, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Tony Cingrani CIN | SP

We knew that Cingrani was talented, but I am not sure many people saw this good of a start coming. In his 3 starts so far this year he has 28 Ks in 18 innings pitched, with a sub 2 ERA. At this point I think he has earned a spot in the Reds rotation and I think they would be crazy to take it away. (about 65% owned)

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Nolan Arenado COL | 3B

The Rockies young third basemen was just called up and he has had a decent amount of hype around him. He has a proven track record in the minors and it’s possible he could have instant success in the bigs. Before getting called up this year he was hitting .364 in AAA and he is well worth a gamble to see if he can keep up his hot bat. (about 45% owned)

Michael Saunders SEA | OF

Saunders is a guy that we were excited about coming into the season. After a slow start though, he was dropped in a lot of leagues. He has started to get things going as of late and at this point I think it’s time to start picking him back up. I am not expecting huge things from Saunders, but I don’t think top 30 fantasy outfielder is out of the question. (about 20% owned)

Felix Doubront BOS | SP

If wins and strikeouts are the only two categories you are looking for, than Doubront could be you guy. He isn’t going to give you the best ERA, but this youngster for Boston knows how to strike people out. He certainly displayed flashes of greatness last year and if he can get his walks under control he could be a great fantasy pitcher. (about 25% owned)

Patrick Corbin ARI | SP

Corbin is certainly an interesting young pitcher and it’s hard to guess if he will be able to keep up this hot streak. He didn’t have amazing success in the minors, but he did have decent numbers. He is one of those wildcard young pitchers that could be a diamond in the rough, or he could start getting slammed as hitters get used to his stuff. At this point though I think he is certainly worth a look in deeper leagues. (about 50% owned)

James Loney TB | 1B

It’s pretty surprising to see how many leagues Loney is unowned in. He has had solid years in the past and at 29 years old it’s still possible that his best years are ahead of him. Loney isn’t going to hit for that much power, but he certainly has huge potential when it comes to his batting average. (about 5% owned)

Jordan Pacheco COL | 1B/C/3B

Pacheco is a guy that we liked heading into the season and he has played great thus far. There a lot of things I like about Pacheco, but one of the things I like the most is his multiple position eligibility. Pacheco isn’t going to bat for a ton of power, but when you combine his potential to bat for average and position eligibility, then I think this makes him worth an add in a lot of leagues. (about 5% owned)

Keep an eye on

Phil Hughes NYY | SP

Hughes has shown flashes of being a solid big league pitcher, but inconsistencies has made him someone that’s easy to stay away from in fantasy. However, it might be time to start giving him another look. He has had 3 quality starts in a row and I think the 27 year old pitcher is certainly worth keeping an eye on since he has had solid stretches in the past. (about 25% owned)

Travis d’Arnaud NYM | C

This talented young catcher will for sure be called up at some point this year and it’s time to start thinking about picking him up. He was one of the key parts of the R.A. Dickey trade and the Mets are clearly excited about him. This kid has a ton of hype around him, so when he does get called up be prepared to run to your computer to try to grab him. (about 5% owned)

With a 5.21 ERA through his first six starts, it is time to buy-low on the reigning AL Cy Young award winner David Price. (photo by Kim Klement)

BULLS (Players whose stock is trending up)

Nate McClouth BAL | OF

I’m not sure anyone really knows whether Nate McClouth is as good, or as bad, as he’s shown the ability to be. I’m don’t think Nate McClouth even knows. But I do know this: Nate is ranked as a top 15 play right now. He has absolutely raked atop the Orioles high-octane offense, including 5 steals, 11 runs scored, and a .343 average over the past two weeks. If you own him at this time, well done. Now it’s time to cash in even further. McClouth’s lifetime batting average against lefties is .222, and only .259 against righties. He’s a platoon player, albeit with a little pop and speed, but nothing more. Move him for good value while he’s hot.
Recommendation: Sell high – McClouth can’t and won’t remain this hot

Clay Buchholz BOS | SP

Buchholz has been absolutely lights-out-silly good so far. He’s 5 for 5 in quality starts, with 5 wins, 39 K’s in 37.2 innings, and a WHIP of 1.01. Not to mention his ERA of 1.19. If you snagged him in the later rounds, you have to be feeling pretty smug about the pick. I’ve loved this guy for years and he’s always let me down, and he’s going to do it to you as well if you expect him to continue like this. His career ERA is 3.77 and last year it was 4.56. He’s only given up one home run in 37 innings, which is unsustainable and way under his career average. Finally, 4 of his 5 opponents have been the following: Houston, Tampa Bay, Kansas City, and a very undermanned Yankees team – not exactly a murderers row. Sell Buchholz now, and sell him high.
Recommendation: Sell very high – Buchholz pitches in the AL East, in a hitters park, and he’s not going to win 25 games

Anibal Sanchez DET | SP

Anibal had the outing of his life on April 26th – 8 IP, 17 K, 0 ER against the powerful Atlanta Braves. He’s shown potential before, but he’s been simply crushing this year. Anyone would want a starter ranked in the top 25 overall, with 41 K in 33 IP, a 1.34 ERA and 1.04 WHIP, and that is why you need to sell. Animal Sanchez isn’t a staff ace, but if you can use his strong overall stats and recent stellar start to sell him as one, you definitely should do so.
Recommendation: Sell high – Sanchez has a lifetime ERA of 3.66 and WHIP of 1.33. This isn’t going to last.

Dexter Fowler COL | OF

His name may be Fowler, but he’s been very fair for his owners so far. Dexter has been a top 25 play in all formats, and this could very well be his year to finally break out. Trouble is, he’s on a completely unsustainable pace – 40+ HR, 20 + SB, and a .400 OBP. We’ve always known he can steal bases, but this power explosion looks like an aberration. If you can sell him high based on his crazy value so far, definitely do so, but don’t move him for anything less than very strong players in return.
Recommendation: Hold – unless the offer is overwhelming

John Buck NYM | C

We’re going to go with Buck here for one more week in the hopes that those of you that still own him can find a trade partner and improve your team. He’s now up to 8 HR and 23 RBI on the season, but the batting average has been coming down, as predicted. Instead of riding this out until he regresses to his career mean, Buck the trend, and sell now. Find a trading partner who is weak at the C spot and package another up-and-comer to get solid value in return. You need to do this now, before the bloom comes off this rose.
Recommendation: Sell high – The Buck will be stopping here, and soon.

BEARS (Players whose stock is trending down)

Stephen Strasburg WAS | SP

Anyone who owns Strasburg would agree: he has been terrible so far. Except that for Stras, terrible is a 3.16 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 4 quality starts in 5 chances. He’s ranked outside the top 200, and this opens a buy low window for his services. There isn’t anything wrong with the Strasburger. The Nationals have started out sluggish, and Strasburg has been affected. This buy window may only last 1-2 more starts, so get your offers out there right away.
Recommendation: Buy low – Strasburg is off his innings limit and will be a top 10, if not top 5, SP by years end.

David Price TAM | SP

For those who invested a second or third round pick in David at the draft table, the Price has been all kinds of wrong in the early going. Going into his start on Sunday, Price has registered an ERA of 5.52 and a WHIP of 1.42 over his first 31 innings pitched. Here’s why you buy him low: He had an awful outing where he gave up 8 ER in 5 IP against Cleveland earlier this month. If you remove that outing from his slate, his ERA, WHIP, walks allowed, and K/IP are all at or around his career averages. He’s had good starts against NYY, BAL, and BOS already. Fleece an impatient Price owner, win your league, and get the girl.
Recommendation: Buy low – Price is a top 15 SP in the majors for a reason.

Matt Cain SF | SP

Here’s another top-notch starting pitcher off to a very slow start. Cain was generally off the board before round 4 on draft day, and for those counting on him to be their ace, he has been a major disappointment. A look under the hood suggests that brighter days are in the offing. In Cain’s 5 starts, he’s had 3 good ones where he’s given up a total of 5 ER in 19 IP, which is vintage Cain. He’s also had 2 very, very bad ones where he’s allowed 16 ER in 9.2 innings. Use these numbers to buy Cain low, but throw them out for internal use. It’s a long season – buy Cain now and you’ll be Abel to dominate later.
Recommendation: Buy low – Cain has a strong track record of proven success, pitches in a good park, and isn’t injured.

Ryan Zimmerman WAS | 3B

Zimmerman is off to his usual slow start, which during the last two years has featured a trip to the DL. If you’re a Zimmerman owner, you were clearly hoping for much more when you paid the 4th or 5th round price tag. If you’re not, now is the time to pounce. Between his dreadful start and having to commit 15 DL days to the Z-man, owners will be ready to sell. Here’s why you buy: Zimmerman always starts out slow. He’s a career .182 batter in March, .259 in April, and he heats up from there. By June, he’s generally red hot. You can see the trend and the date – now is the time to acquire Zimmerman.
Recommendation: Buy low – The best of Zimmerman, and the Nationals, is yet to come.

David Freese STL | 3B

Freese has been his namesake thusfar, which is to say, frozen. Ice cold. Borderline un-ownable. And thus he is possibly the buy-low with the most profit potential, because it will cost virtually nothing to acquire his services. He’s batting below .200 with 0 HR, and is 4 for his last 28. He’s also already had a DL stint on his resume this year. His owners are pulling their collective hair out (I’m one) trying to figure out what to do with his dead roster spot. Make it easy for them – throw a decent bone their way, and Freese will be yours. He has 25+ HR upside, hits in a strong lineup in a great park, and is coming off an excellent season. Buy low before Mr. Freese starts to thaw.
Recommendation: Buy very low – Freese will emerge from his early season slump soon and provide sharp owners with a strong return.

Shelby Miller is off to a hot start with a 1.96 ERA and 18/5 K/BB ratio in 18 1/3 innings this season. (photo by Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports)

Our Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Pickups article takes a 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. Let’s take a look at some players that might be worth scooping off the waiver wire heading into Week 4 of the MLB season. If you have any questions on who to pick up or who to drop, feel free to post them in our Fantasy Baseball Forum.

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Shelby Miller STL | SP

Miller has everything you look for when it comes to trying to find the next great fantasy pitcher. He is a young talented pitcher with huge K potential and he is off to a great start so far this year. The 22 year old had 160 Ks in 136 innings in the minors in 2012 and I am expecting big things from him this year. (about 65% owned)

Starling Marte PIT | OF

It seemed like Marte got a decent amount of preseason hype, which makes it even more surprising that he isn’t owned in more leagues after his hot start to this season. Last year he had 14 extra base hits in only 167 at bats and he already has 5 extra base hits in 2013. Marte is an extremely talented young player and he is well worth an add in all leagues. (about 60% owned)

Daniel Murphy NYM | 1B/2B

Murphy was one of my favorite sleepers coming into the season and he is off to a great start. I thought he would improve upon his home run numbers since he had so many extra base hits last year. In 2012 he only hit 6 HRs and he already has 2 HRs and 8 extra base hits on this young season. He also has dual position eligibility and I think this all adds up to him being a must add. (about 70% owned)

Everth Cabrera SD | 2B/SS

Cabrera was one of my favorite shortstop sleeper coming into the year and he is starting to show why. He isn’t going to bat for the best average or for much pop, but he has the chance to league the league in steals. When you combine that with the fact he can play second base or shortstop for your fantasy team, you have to love this guys upside. (about 70% owned)

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Tony Cingrani CIN | SP

Cingrani is one of the best young pitching prospects in the game and he just got called up to the bigs. He has been very impressive in the minors and he has the stuff to be a great fantasy pitcher. His spot in the starting rotation isn’t guaranteed going forward, but if he pitches well he could find himself in the majors for good. (about 30% owned)

Chris Carter HOU | 1B/OF

I am not expecting a great average out of Carter, but he could be a solid source of cheap power for your fantasy team. He displayed solid power in limited at bats last year and he already 4 HRs in 2013. Carter had solid numbers during his time in the minors and I really like his overall upside. (about 40% owned)

Matt Adams STL | 1B

The Cardinals are going to have to find a way to get their young power hitter some more at bats. He has only had 18 at bats so far this year, but he has 11 hits and 3 HRs. Some might call it a fluke but this didn’t come out of nowhere, he was solid during his time in the minors and this kid does have obvious talent. In 276 at bats in 2012 in the minors he had 18 HRs and 50 RBIs. (about 15% owned)

Yonder Alonso SD | 1B

Alonso was a guy that I really liked coming into the season and he is off to a great start. He didn’t hit for a ton of power last year, but I loved the fact that he had 39 doubles. A lot of times with younger players those doubles will turn into HRs and I think that’s going to happen with Alonso. He has 2 HRs already and I think he will be up over 20 this year before it’s all said and done. (about 15% owned)

Keep an eye on

Edward Mujica STL | RP

The Cardinals closer situation is currently a mess and it looks like Mujica could be the next guy in line for the save opportunities. He has been solid thus far for the Cards pen and he is certainly worth keeping a close eye on. Jason Motte will be back in the fairly near future to reclaim his closing role, but Mujica could be a decent source of saves until that happens. (about 40% owned)

The window to buy low on Roy Halladay may be closing following a bounce back performance against the Marlins. (photo by Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports)

This column is a bit different than your weekly waiver wire piece. Here we’ll examine widely owned players who are hot and cold, with the goal of identifying sell high/buy low opportunities. Your comments, contributions, and criticisms are welcome, both in the comments and in the forums. Let’s do this!

BULLS (Players whose stock is trending up)

Coco Crisp OAK | OF

Would you believe Coco Crisp is #1 on the player rater for 2013 so far? After hitting 11 total HR’s last season, he’s opened 2013 by punching up 4 homers, 4 steals, and 14 runs scored while batting over .300 through these first two weeks. He’s been on a crazy tear, only halted by his sustaining a groin injury the other night. His ownership is way up, and if you own him I’d advise selling high while his ranking is ridiculous. He’ll be good, but his career numbers suggest he won’t be this good.
Recommendation: Sell high – Crisp can’t and won’t continue at this pace.

Mike Harvey NYM | SP

After demolishing Minnesota on Saturday, Harvey’s ERA stands at 0.82, and his WHIP at 0.50. He has 25 K’s in 22 innings. You cannot start any hotter than this. If you were fortunate enough to select him as a value in round 11 or so, congrats! Now it’s time to decide what to do with Harvey. There isn’t any chance he continues at this rate, but it appears he has the tools, barring injury, to settle in the top 25 starting pitchers by year’s end. Considering his age, inexperience, and the fact that the Mets might be inclined to limit his innings, I’d sell Harvey to the highest bidder while you can. Let’s face it, if you can’t, he’s a top 25 SP! You win either way!
Recommendation: Sell very high – Harvey will go through some ups and downs as the league adjusts to him.

Chris Davis BAL | 1B, OF

Are there any more words to describe how hot Chris Davis is right now? The formerly over-hyped top prospect has finally bloomed, thus far proving 2012 was no fluke. Davis was known as a high-strikeout, low-batting-average guy with incredible power until last year. In 2013, he’s batting .412, with 6 HR and 19 RBI. While he’s clearly not going to continue at a .400 clip, I’m buying this breakout. He’s just 27 this year and entrenched in a powerful, run-scoring lineup that scores a ton of runs. If you get the right offer that makes your team unstoppable, go for it, but don’t sell Davis for anything less.
Recommendation: Hold – unless the offer is overwhelming.

Jayson Werth WAS | OF

A slow start, a broken wrist in 2012, and a hefty contract had many in Washington crying “Werthless” in 2012. However, the bearded one has silenced many of his doubters with his start to 2013. Hitting second behind Denard Span and right in front of Bryce Harper, Werth has raked to the tune of 3 HR, 2 SB, 8 R, and 8 RBI through the first two weeks, making him a top 30 player so far. If you drafted Werth, you did so very late, and you’ve probably already made a profit. It certainly looks like he could do this all year long and should be a decent 20/20 candidate, if not more. I recommend holding Werth unless you can find a trade partner that will truly compensate you for your late round steal.
Recommendation: Hold – unless the offer is overwhelming.

Michael Morse SEA | OF

Morse is another late round OF draft pick that has made his owners look like geniuses so far. Nationals fans were sorry to see the Beast leave, because we knew he was capable of these kinds of streaks. Morse has crushed opposing pitching in 2013: 6 HR, 9 RBI, and a .293 average. Sure, the fences in Seattle have come in and the lineup has improved, but this pace is clearly unsustainable. Morse has a penchant for getting hurt and can go into prolonged slumps. Regression will catch up to him, likely sooner rather than later. If you own him you probably nabbed him in the later rounds. I’d suggest pairing him up with another overachiever to try to land an underperforming stud (BJ Upton, for example).
Recommendation: Sell high – Morse has 30 HR power, but is slump and injury prone.

John Buck NYM | C

Through 41 at-bats, Buck has tallied 6 HR, 19 RBI, a .317 average, and a top 5 overall rank. If you picked him up early and rode this unprecedented hot streak, double down on your luck and make a Buck – trade, that is. Here’s why: He’s a lifetime .236 hitter with a career OBP just over .300, he’s never hit over 20 bombs in a season, and he’ll be 33 in a month or so – this isn’t a breakout season from a youngster we can project forward. Package him with another upstart or underperformer to upgrade your squad while you can.
Recommendation: Sell high – The Buck will be stopping here, and soon.

BEARS (Players whose stock is trending down)

Roy Halladay PHI | SP

In 2013, the Doctor certainly has not been in. Halladay is currently sporting a 7.63 ERA and 1.57 WHIP through three starts. At 36 and with over 2600 innings on his arm, could he just simply be done? Nay, I say. Many pitchers experience a decline in velocity later in their careers (see Petitte, Andy) but are still effective regardless. If Halladay is healthy, he’ll figure this out. Take one of your overachieving players and make the Halladay owner an offer. Before long you’ll be handsomely rewarded for buying low.
Recommendation: Buy low – Halladay has a superior track record and work ethic, and will find his command.

BJ Upton ATL | OF

The Elder Upton has started 2013 (including Saturday’s action) 4 for his first 38. That would be a .105 average to go with 1 HR and 3 SB, the latter two being the only factors saving his value. We know BJ isn’t likely to hit for a high average, but this is ridiculous, and unsustainable. His batting average will move upward toward the mean, and with this increase will come more runs, steals, and homers. He’s on a new team, in a new league, and an adjustment period is to be expected. If you didn’t want to pay the price for BJ of draft day, now is your chance to acquire his services on the cheap. I expect him to find his stroke in a dangerous and dynamic Braves lineup in short order. Make an intriguing offer to the disgruntled Upton owned in your league, and do it quickly.
Recommendation: Buy low – BJ went 3-5 on Saturday against the Nationals, and will dig his way out of this prolonged slump soon.

Jason Heyward ATL | OF

Another Atlanta OF off to a slow start presents another opportunity for an even bigger buy low. Unfathomably, he’s actually been worse than Upton, batting a very weak 3 for 35, equating to a .085 average. I can’t see this as anything more than a gigantic cold streak – Tim Hudson, the starting pitcher for the Braves on Saturday, had 2 hits off of Stephen Strasburg. Point being, sometimes the bounce goes your way, and sometimes it doesn’t. Heyward owners have to be panicking already based on the performance of their third round (or higher in deeper leagues) pick. The iron is hot, and it’s time to strike. Heyward won’t be 24 until August, and is coming off a 27/24 campaign. He’s an elite talent, and the time is ripe for you to acquire him for 50-75 cents on the dollar.
Recommendation: Buy low – Heyward is only 23 and is still getting better. This early slump opens the window for you to make huge profits.

Cole Hamels PHI | SP

Cole has been, in a word, terrible. He’s given up 13 runs in 10.2 innings, including 4 home runs and 5 walks. He’s currently on pace to give up 100 home runs and 80+ walks. This isn’t going to happen. Hamels has been one of the most consistent starting pitchers over the past three years. He’s a 200+ inning, 15+ win, 200+K workhorse. He’s also on an improved Phillies team this year. While Hamels has undoubtedly disappointed his owners so far, I’m holding, not selling. If you can use this cold start to buy Hamels low, definitely do so without hesitation. Consider his start to 2013 a mere bump in the road. I’d bet all the money in my wallet that he’ll end up a top 30 starter by year’s end.
Recommendation: Buy low – Like Halladay, Hamels has a strong track record and will figure it out in short order.

Salvador Perez KC | C

Salvy Perez was a fantasy writers darling during the preseason, but has started 2013 as anything but. He batted .301 with 11 homers in 76 games after returning from a knee injury last year, and projections were bullish as to what he might do with a full 550 AB complement. Instead, Perez started out batting .154 with no homers through his first 6 games. His ownership sank considerably as owners dropped Perez to grab onto hot commodities like John Buck and J.P. Arencibia. Since that 6 game slide, all he’s done is go 7 for his last 15 (including Saturday’s action) to raise his average to .283. He still has yet to go deep, and the Royals lineup looks punchless so far, but I still see bright things in Salvador’s future. If you can add him for free in your league, definitely do so, and if not, dangle a hot prospect in front of his owner and see if you can land this young, talented backstop on the rise.
Recommendation: Buy low – Perez will emerge from his early season slump soon and finish as a top 10 catcher.

Jimmy Butler has been playing huge minutes and the Bulls should continue to rely on him heavily down the stretch. (photo by Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports)

If you’re still reading this column, further congratulations are in order. You’re probably one of two or possibly three teams vying for that elusive roto title, or you are in the championship game in your league. To all you who have already won, my humble congratulations to you! To those of you still in this thing – I’ll throw out a few guys that just might be able to push you over this final hump. Good luck!

Point Guards

Beno Udrih ORL | PG

The last time I wrote this column, the Magic had lost Aaron Afflalo for the season, and now Jameer Nelson is injured as well. We’ll go ahead and file Jameer Nelson being injured in the “What Else is New” folder, but I digress…Udrih has been a more than adequate as his replacement, recently going off for 27 points with 5 boards, 7 dimes, and strong supporting stats. The Magic aren’t going anywhere, but Udrih has his arrow firmly aimed up. Orlando only plays twice this week, so the game we’re targeting here in on Saturday, at home, against the Celtics. If you’re down heading into the weekend, sign Udrih late Friday night. (less than 30% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues

Shooting Guards

Mike Miller MIA | SG

Miller’s been crushing it over the last two weeks, and with the NBA season almost over, the Heat will be resting their starters quite a bit. When given the minutes, Miller can contribute in multiple categories and light it up from beyond the arc. Grab Mike – It’s Miller time. (less than 10% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues

Corey Brewer DEN | SG

Gallinari out, Brewer in. Well, kinda-sorta. Even if that’s not exactly how it works, the absence of Gallo leaves plenty of bench minutes for Brewer over the final two weeks of the NBA season. Brewer has proved several times this year that he is more than capable of putting up strong numbers when given the minutes, and he should be force-fed all he can handle down the home stretch. (about 30% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues

Small Forwards

Jimmy Butler CHI | SF

Butler went off on Tuesday night to the tune of 28 points on 10-12 shooting, 7 boards, two assists, two steals, and 3 3’s. He played all 48 minutes and has fresh legs from his reserve role all year. Notably, everyone else on the Bulls seems to be hurt, and they have 4 games on the slate for this coming week. This seems like an easy call to make. (about 30% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues

Power Forwards

Reggie Evans BKN | PF

Reggie has been pulling down an average of 18 boards per game over the last scoring period. Not total, not his high water mark, his average. Any further contributions in any stat category are a bonus. This guy wins you rebounds, and the Nets play 4 times in this garbage-time week on NBA action. Make the add. (about 35% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues

Brandan Wright DAL | PF

Wright has been nothing less than a top 50 player over the past 30 days. Lately, with Elton Brand out, he’s been more like a top 25 player. Next season the sky is the limit for this up-and-comer. Since we’re focused on the last bit of this season, examine Wrights 12 points, 6 boards, and almost 2 blocks on 60% shooting over the last 14 days. Those numbers can help any team out, especially if you need some late week swats. Dallas plays on Friday and Sunday, so make the add on Thursday and take advantage of the favorable schedule. (about 15% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues

Centers

Jermaine O’Neal PHO | C

We’ve played this O’Neal game before, and we know where it leads – He’s good when he isn’t hurt and gets minutes. With Marcin Gortat still out, no other notable big bodies in his way, and no major injuries holding him back, Jermaine looks poised to deliver the goods this week. He’s averaging 16, 8, and 1.5 blocks to go with strong percentages. Just hope he doesn’t get hurt in the cab on the way to the game. (less than 15% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues

Josh McRoberts CHA | C

Very often in a championship battle, you need a late-week addition to boost your counting stats that last bit to secure the victory. McRoberts can help your clan this week. He has games on Friday and Saturday against Detroit and Milwaukee respectively, two poor opponents who allow a ton of points and defensive stats. McBob has been pulling down boards like a madman and averaging a steal per game to go with good percentages lately, so definitely give him a look as a late-week plug and play option. ( about 15% owned)
Recommendation: Add in all leagues