As the 2026 MLB season reaches its mid‑point, fantasy managers are constantly scanning the waiver wire for the next hidden gem. Week 13 brings a fresh batch of performances that could reshape lineups, especially for those who blend contact, power and speed.
Zack Gelof continues to surprise with a 21‑game hitting streak that has carried him to a .286/.333/.510 slash line for the campaign. His ability to drive the ball into the gaps while maintaining a solid on‑base percentage makes him a versatile asset across multiple formats.
Carter Jensen, now perched at the top of the order, has rattled off a nine‑game hit streak that reflects both his adjusted approach and the manager’s confidence in his bat. The recent uptick suggests he could become a reliable source of runs and RBI.
Rising Stars to Target
Samad Taylor’s rapid ascent from Triple‑A to the Padres’ outfield has been accompanied by a .343 average, a home run and four stolen bases in just ten games. His speed on the bases and contact‑heavy approach give him a high ceiling for stolen‑base categories.
Blaze Alexander is heating up at a blistering pace, batting .571 over his last four contests and posting a .347 wOBA for the season. The shortstop’s combination of contact and power makes him a sleeper in deeper leagues.
Donovan Walton’s five‑game hit streak has lifted his slash line to .323/.354/.500, indicating a well‑rounded contribution at the plate. His recent consistency could translate into a steady stream of extra‑base hits.
Esteury Ruiz, after earning two starts in left field, has already accumulated 12 stolen bases this season, underscoring his value in speed‑focused formats. Managers looking for a catalyst on the bases should keep an eye on his daily lineup status.
Colt Keith’s power surge has been nothing short of dramatic, as he launched four home runs in his last five hits. The sudden burst of long balls adds a high‑risk, high‑reward element to his profile.
Jordan Lawlar’s return from the injured list was marked by three stolen bases in his first two games back, a promising sign for a player who can impact both speed and run production.
Dominic Canzone has maintained at least one hit in eight consecutive games and is batting .440 since May 30, a stretch that highlights his ability to stay hot when many of his peers cool off.
In contrast, Eugenio Suarez is struggling through a disappointing year, posting a .180 xwOBA and managing only seven home runs in 47 appearances. His recent slump may warrant a bench role unless a turnaround emerges.
Beyond individual stats, the broader context of roster percentages and positional eligibility will dictate how these players are valued in specific league formats. Managers should weigh matchup difficulty, lineup stability and the depth of their own rosters when deciding whether to add or drop.