Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Gems: Early Season Standouts
The first month of the Major League Baseball season has concluded, presenting fantasy baseball managers with a crucial opportunity to evaluate their rosters and make strategic adjustments. While the sample sizes remain relatively small, approximately 30 games provide a glimpse into potential trends and emerging player performances.
Across the league, batting averages, slugging percentages, and on-base plus slugging (OPS) have experienced a slight dip compared to the full-season totals of 2024. Conversely, stolen bases have witnessed a notable surge, indicating a potential shift in offensive strategies. However, due to the influence of warming weather conditions across the country, drawing definitive conclusions at this stage remains challenging.
Regardless of the specific time of year, implementing strategies to incrementally improve your team is paramount. This article highlights potential waiver wire acquisitions based on their roster rates in Fantrax leagues, which may differ from other platforms. The suggested bid values are tailored for standard 5×5 mixed roto leagues, assuming a $100 free agent acquisition budget for the entire season.
Emerging Offensive Power:
Andy Pages, Los Angeles Dodgers Outfielder: Pages has been on a tear recently, earning the National League co-player of the week award. Over his last eight games, he has slashed an impressive .545 with four home runs, nine runs scored, nine runs batted in (RBI), and three stolen bases. Securing a piece of the Dodgers’ potent offense is always a worthwhile endeavor, and Pages is capitalizing on his everyday playing opportunities. Consider a bid in the $8-$12 range.
J.P. Crawford, Seattle Mariners Infielder: Crawford has been a catalyst for the Mariners’ surprising offensive outburst over the past three weeks. During a 16-game stretch, he slashed .370/.469/.519, earning a promotion from the No. 9 spot to the leadoff position in the batting order. In his first game as the leadoff hitter, he tallied two more hits and two RBI. If this lineup arrangement persists, Crawford’s fantasy value could significantly increase. A bid of $5-$8 would be a reasonable investment.
Luis Urias, Sacramento River Cats (Giants AAA) Infielder: While Urias’s numbers may not immediately stand out, he has found a consistent role at second base in Sacramento. He has already hit four home runs and boasts a solid .490 slugging percentage. Further improvement is possible, given his .211 batting average on balls in play (BABIP). Monitor his progress closely, particularly if he gets the call to the big leagues, and consider a speculative bid of $3-$5.
Securing Saves:
Ryan Doval, San Francisco Giants Relief Pitcher: The transition in the Giants’ ninth inning appears to be complete. Ryan Walker has not had a save opportunity since blowing one on April 20th, while Doval has successfully converted three consecutive save chances since then. The NL saves leader in 2023 has been excellent so far, posting a 1.93 ERA and a 0.79 WHIP in 14 innings, albeit with only 10 strikeouts. However, saves remain a valuable commodity in fantasy baseball, making Doval a worthwhile addition. A bid in the $15-$20 range is justified.
Kevin Ginkel, Arizona Diamondbacks Relief Pitcher: With A.J. Puk on the 60-day injured list and Justin Martinez on the 15-day IL, Ginkel has returned from a shoulder injury at an opportune time. Although Ryan Thompson recorded the save in Ginkel’s season debut, Ginkel pitched in a high-leverage situation earlier in the game and emerged unscathed. He was initially expected to be the Diamondbacks’ opening day closer, making this a chance to acquire him ahead of the curve. Shelby Miller is another veteran who could factor into the save equation after earning his first of the season. A bid of $10-$15 is recommended, with a smaller bid of $3-$5 for Miller.
Starting Pitching Potential:
Lucas Giolito, Boston Red Sox Starting Pitcher: Giolito made his first MLB appearance since October 2023 on Wednesday against the Blue Jays, pitching six innings and allowing three runs on five hits. Encouragingly, he recorded seven strikeouts. Still just 30 years old, Giolito seems to be nearing full recovery from the elbow surgery that sidelined him last season. There could be glimpses of the pitcher who was an All-Star and Cy Young contender back in 2019. A bid of $8-$12 is appropriate, considering the potential upside.
Tony Gonsolin, Los Angeles Dodgers Starting Pitcher: Similar to Giolito, Gonsolin made his first start since August 2023 on the same day. He also allowed three runs in six innings, but with nine strikeouts. The Dodgers’ rotation could certainly use some positive news. A bid of $8-$12 reflects the potential value of Gonsolin in a shallow league.
River Ryan, Los Angeles Dodgers Starting Pitcher: Ryan has forced the Dodgers to move him into the rotation with his strong start to the season. The rookie threw 3⅔ scoreless innings after Tyler Glasnow became the latest L.A. starter to hit the injured list. That performance lowered Ryan’s ERA to 2.91 over 21⅔ innings. His 23/3 strikeout-to-walk ratio is most impressive. Plus, he’ll be in line for two starts next week. A bid of $10-15 would be appropriate.
Notable Call-Ups and Role Changes:
Daulton Varsho, Toronto Blue Jays Outfielder: Making his 2025 debut this past week, Varsho showcased his Gold Glove defense in his first game with a spectacular catch in center field. He then launched his first home run in his second game. While significant offensive production shouldn’t be expected regularly, his defensive prowess will ensure consistent playing time in the Blue Jays’ lineup. Consider a bid of $3-$5 for the defensive specialist.
Jeff McNeil, New York Mets Infielder/Outfielder: McNeil battled injuries last season, resulting in a career-low .238 batting average. However, the 2022 NL batting champ appears to be returning to form after recovering from an oblique injury that delayed his season debut. Since then, he has gone 5-for-15 (.333) with a home run, triple, and three RBI, while playing both second base and the outfield. A bid of $5-$8 is recommended.
Cautions and Future Considerations:
Alec Marsh, Kansas City Royals Starting Pitcher: Filling in for a not-yet-ready Cole Ragans, Marsh tossed 6⅓ no-hit innings and picked up the win in his MLB debut on Wednesday. However, all that got him was a ticket back to Class AAA Omaha. Marsh will resurface at some point though, and he’ll be a popular pickup when he returns. Add him to your watch list and be prepared to bid aggressively when he’s recalled.
These waiver wire recommendations offer a starting point for improving your fantasy baseball roster. However, it’s crucial to consider your league’s specific rules, roster composition, and positional needs when making acquisition decisions. Stay active on the waiver wire and be prepared to adjust your strategies as the season progresses.
