September Showdown: Key Waiver Wire Targets
As the calendar flips to September, fantasy managers scramble for the final edge in playoff‑bound leagues, turning to the waiver wire for late‑season sparks.
Roman Anthony’s long‑awaited return to the Red Sox lineup has already delivered a double and a two‑bagger in his first game back, underscoring a .280 average, two doubles and two homers across eight rehab appearances.
Boston’s decision to slot the 22‑year‑old at the top of its playoff‑chasing order signals that his on‑base upside and power could be decisive in the race for October.
Walker Jenkins, promoted from Triple‑A St. Paul after his contract was selected, has seized a starting spot in center field, posting a .308/.407/.532 slash line with 12 homers and 17 steals, and a scorching August stretch of .411/.488/.795 that included eight homers and seven steals.
The Twins have resisted any platoon approach, guaranteeing Jenkins regular at‑bats over the next three weeks, a scenario that makes him a priority add in 12‑team formats and an automatic pick in 15‑team or AL‑only leagues.
Lazaro Montes, called up as Seattle’s roster expands, brings a .247/.365/.556 minor‑league line and 38 homers in 2024, a combination that earned him a No. 5 prospect ranking from MLB Pipeline, though his playing time will hinge on competition from Arozarena, Julio Rodriguez and Taylor Ward.
For fantasy owners, Anthony is a must‑add in every format, Jenkins is a priority in 12‑team leagues and a staple in deeper formats, while Montes offers a speculative stash that could pay off in deeper drafts.
The common thread is September relevance: each player is positioned to contribute high‑leverage at‑bats as their clubs chase postseason berths, making them prime targets for waiver‑wire moves.