The trade deadline is a critical juncture for MLB teams, and the upcoming Monday’s 6 p.m. ET deadline is likely to bring significant changes to the league. One of the most notable trades so far has been the Los Angeles Dodgers’ acquisition of Tarik Skubal. While this move may not have a direct impact on Fantasy players, it does create a ripple effect that could influence the waiver wire.
The trade of Tarik Skubal has a significant impact on the Detroit Tigers’ rotation. River Ryan, who was traded to the Tigers as part of the deal, is currently on the IL with a hamstring injury in Triple-A. Once he recovers, Ryan should have a chance to compete for a spot in the Tigers’ rotation. His talent and potential make him an intriguing addition to Fantasy teams.
Another significant trade was the Seattle Mariners’ deal that sent Luis Castillo to the Chicago White Sox. This move could have a lasting impact on the Mariners’ rotation, and it raises questions about the team’s plans for the future. Top prospect Kade Anderson is likely to be promoted to the majors sooner rather than later, and he should be a priority on the waiver wire for Fantasy players.
Week 20 Waiver Targets
Here are some players to consider adding to your Fantasy team ahead of Week 20:
Francisco Alvarez, Mets (56%)
Alvarez has been a solid starter for the Mets, with a .266/.356/.477 batting line since his return from the IL in June. He’s ranked 13th among catchers in points in CBS Fantasy default scoring and remains a valuable asset for Fantasy teams.
Deep League Option: Endy Rodriguez, Pirates (18%)
Rodriguez has started four of six games since returning from the IL and has an excellent approach at the plate, along with above-average quality of contact metrics. He’s a solid all-round profile and a worthy starter in any two-catcher leagues.
First Base
Ty France, Twins (51%): France’s roster rate is finally climbing, and his bat remains strong, with a .326/.370/.596 batting line in July. He’s playing every day and has a .348 expected wOBA over the past 100 plate appearances, making him a useful Fantasy option.
Deep League Option: Andres Chaparro, Nationals (2%)
Chaparro has hit .220/.340/.500 with decent contact skills and pop so far, and with Luis Garcia Jr. sent to the Yankees, the path to everyday playing time is there for Chaparro, assuming health.
Second Base
Luke Keaschall, Twins (64%): Keaschall has been a huge disappointment this season, but he’s been good lately, with a .324/.443/.500 batting line since the start of July. He’s emerged as an everyday option in the outfield and looks like an interesting option right now.
Deep League Option: Pedro Ramirez, Cubs (13%)
Ramirez’s value is either about to take off or completely crash depending on how the deadline goes. He has plus contact skills and speed with non-zero power and could be a very useful Fantasy option with everyday playing time.
Third Base
Brendan Donovan, Mariners (70%): Donovan is expected to return from his groin injury Tuesday, and his return comes just as J.P. Crawford was placed on the IL with left wrist inflammation. Donovan should slide into the third base spot at first and remains a fringe starter at third base and a solid corner infielder.
Deep League Option: Tommy White, Athletics (16%)
White has mostly come as advertised, with an aggressive approach at the plate and decent contact skills. He’s a corner infielder who can boost your batting average and has some mild appeal.
Cooper Pratt, Brewers (47%): Pratt has the kind of skill set that could really matter for Fantasy, but he needs to prove he can be at least a non-zero for power. He’s doing a good job of holding his own so far, with an average-ish 88 mph average exit velocity and .103 ISO in his first 139 MLB plate appearances.
Deep League Option: Kaelen Culpepper, Twins (16%)
Culpepper is another player worth considering, with a solid all-round profile and the potential to be a useful Fantasy option with everyday playing time.