All‑Star Break Signals a Surge in Waiver Activity
The midsummer classic is just around the corner, and with the All‑Star break looming, fantasy managers are turning their attention to the waiver wire for a final push before the second half of the season. The timing couldn't be more critical, as rosters shift and lineups jostle for position in the race to the playoffs.
One of the most compelling arms to consider is Red Sox left‑hander Jake Bennett, who has posted a 2.67 ERA and a 0.82 WHIP over his last five starts, showcasing a level of control that could translate into a reliable starter role. His recent stretch of performances has made him a hot commodity on the wire.
In the National League, Brewers’ top prospect Luis Lara made an immediate impact in his debut, batting second and delivering a glimpse of the power‑speed combo that earned him a seven‑year extension; the 21‑year‑old switch‑hitter posted a .321 average with nine homers and 24 steals at Triple‑A. His blend of contact and speed makes him a versatile asset for any fantasy roster.
Rays left‑hander Ian Seymour continues to rise after a career‑high 12‑strikeout outing against the Yankees, a performance that has pushed his ERA down to 2.97 in his last four starts and sparked buzz among league‑wide fantasy circles. The young pitcher's recent consistency positions him as a prime add‑drop candidate.
Catchers and infielders also feature prominently; Mets backstop Francisco Alvarez, still shaking off a knee injury, is batting .251 with a .313 on‑base percentage and nine homers, while Dodgers utility man Tommy Edman is set to return from an ankle/foot issue that sidelined him for two games. Both players could see increased playing time as the season progresses.
Meanwhile, Orioles reliever Andrew Kittredge, who has struggled with a 4.91 ERA early in the campaign, has turned a corner, allowing just one earned run over his past 8 1/3 innings, making him a sleeper option for saves in deeper leagues. His recent surge adds depth to bullpen considerations.
The injury front also includes Twins outfielder Byron Buxton, who was placed on the 10‑day injured list with a right hip issue, a move that could open up roster spots for emerging talents like Gage Jump and Josh Bell, both of whom have shown flashes of upside in recent weeks. Their potential breakout could reshape roster decisions.
As the trade deadline approaches, the blend of established performers and high‑upside prospects makes the coming weeks a critical juncture for fantasy lineups, and the players highlighted above represent some of the most valuable add‑drop targets for Week 15. Monitoring their trajectories now could pay dividends in the stretch run of the season.