Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: 8/1/26
The waiver wire is a crucial aspect of fantasy baseball, offering a chance to bolster your roster with undervalued players. This week's article delves into some top picks, focusing on players who are likely to be available in most leagues and some deep league options. We'll also explore the most-added players across major sites and provide insights on which players to add and which to leave on the wire.
Top Priority Players to Add
Cooper Pratt (MIL) - SS (Yahoo - 13%)
Pratt's performance has been impressive, boasting a .288/.379/.396 slash line and 10 steals in 132 plate appearances. His excellent contact ability and solid swing decisions are evident, despite not possessing standout exit velocity or bat speed. Pratt's 12.9% walk rate and 17.4% strikeout rate make him a valuable asset, especially with his position as the Brewers' ninth hitter. With Brice Turang and Jackson Chourio hitting behind him, Pratt is poised to score runs consistently.
Jared Jones (PIT) - SP (Yahoo - 52%)
Jones' overall season stats may not be eye-catching, but his recent performance is impressive. Over the past month, he ranks 8th in the majors in K-BB%, showcasing his ability to strike out batters while minimizing walks. His 2.00 ERA and 0.63 WHIP in 5 starts are commendable. Jones' success can be attributed to his increased reliance on his fastball, which has become his primary pitch. While models differ on the quality of his fastball, Jones' changeup is not favored, allowing him to become a two-pitch starter and maintain his effectiveness.
Yahoo and ESPN Most Added Players
Zac Thornton (ESP) - SP
Thornton's recent starts against the Marlins and Braves have been solid, contributing to his top spot on the ESPN most-added list. His 2.43 ERA and 0.91 WHIP, along with a low walk rate, make him a reliable streaming option. While his Statcast metrics suggest some regression, Thornton's minor league numbers indicate he can add a few strikeouts. His excellent command and manageable matchups make him a strong choice, especially with the Marlins' 8th-ranked wRC+ over the past 30 days.
Quinn Mathews (TOR) - SP
Mathews' upcoming start in Toronto against the Blue Jays, who have the worst offense in baseball by wRC+ over the past 30 days, presents a favorable matchup. His strong strikeout numbers and abysmal walk rates in Triple-A innings make him a potential streaming option. However, his debut starts and minor league xFIP of ~4.50 may raise some skepticism.
Robert Gasser (MIL) - SP
Gasser's start against the Angels is highly recommended, as the Angels' offense ranks 27th in wRC+ over the past 30 days. The Brewers' extreme fly ball approach, which results in five percentage points more pulled fly balls than the league average, makes Gasser a viable streaming option. The Angels' poor ISO over the past month further strengthens this choice.
Andrew Abbott (PIT) - SP
Abbott's start against Pittsburgh is a risky but playable option, given the team's struggles against lefties. His sub-93 velo and poor control this year are concerns, but his success in 530 innings without premium velo is notable. The home-road ERA split of 5.05 and 2.89, respectively, further adds to the intrigue.
Connor Prielipp (SEA) - SP
Prielipp's return from the IL with a solid outing against the A's is a positive sign. The A's' poor road offense provides little insight, but his upcoming start in Seattle, one of the best places to pitch, is an opportunity. The Mariners' struggles against lefties make Prielipp a potential streaming option.
Category Specific Players to Add
Steven Kwan (CLE) - OF (Yahoo - 52%)
Kwan's recent performance has been a stark contrast to his overall season line. Over the past 30 days, he's hit .387/.472/.480 with 5 steals, showcasing his usual skills. While power is not his forte, Kwan's average and speed make him a valuable asset for managers who have moved on from him.
Jackson Holliday (BAL) - 2B, SS (Yahoo - 28%)
Holliday, similar to Kwan, offers eligibility at both middle infield spots. He possesses slightly more power with 5 homers, but less speed. Holliday's recent singles-maxxing performance of .382/.500/.436 is impressive. The Orioles' better offense compared to the Guardians provides more run production opportunities, making Holliday a potential addition.
In conclusion, the waiver wire presents a wealth of opportunities to enhance your fantasy baseball roster. By carefully considering the players mentioned above, you can make strategic additions that maximize your team's potential for success.
