Fantasy: 3 players to target on waivers

by Greg Warren 10h ago

Benny Sieu / USA TODAY Sports

Every Sunday, theScore's MLB editors will shed light on three potential targets to claim on the waiver wire in your fantasy league in a player-versus-player format.
*Players must be owned in 30 percent or less of Yahoo fantasy leagues to qualify.

Yonder Alonso vs. Ryan Howard

Alonso has been on fire since being activated from the disabled list June 2, going 8-for-15 with a home run and six RBIs. His average now stands at an impressive .363 after 30 games, but don't expect too much power from the left-handed batter at pitcher-friendly Petco Park. The San Diego Padres first baseman is hitting a blistering .460 away from home, but only .269 at cavernous Petco.
Production from Howard is predictable: he'll hit for a low average with the occasional power outburst. Now could be the time, however, to pick him up with trade rumors swirling he could be headed to St. Louis. A change of scenery and his assimilation into a winning culture could boost the Philadelphia Phillies veteran's stats if traded.
Pick: Alonso is the better short-term play. Take advantage of his hot streak, but keep an eye on Howard. If trade rumors persist, have the foresight to add him before a deal is made official.

Pedro Strop vs. Carson Smith

Fantasy owners are always trying to sniff out a closer around midseason, and Strop could an ideal candidate. The Chicago Cubs righty stepped up Saturday after closer Hector Rondon faltered to earn his second save of the campaign. Manager Joe Maddon said he's sticking with Rondon for now, but may use him in some low-leverage situations to boost his confidence. It certainly sounds like Rondon is on a short leash and Strop is ready to step in.
Smith earned his first career save Saturday to thrust himself into the closer conversation in Seattle. Closer Fernando Rodney has endured two consecutive rough outings, but manager Lloyd McClendon seems intent on keeping the veteran in place. Smith has allowed only one run over his last 12 appearances and owns a sparkling 1.08 ERA. If Rodney continues to struggle, McClendon could be forced to oust him.
Pick: This decision needs to based on who has the best chance to earn saves. Rodney has been one of the most dominant high-leverage relievers in the bigs over the past three years and will be harder to dethrone than the more inexperienced Rondon. Take Strop.

Jake Lamb vs. Will Middlebrooks

Don't forget about Lamb. The Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman was just activated from the DL after suffering a stress reaction in his foot. Lamb was hitting .414 with a homer in 10 games before getting hurt, and will once again assume the everyday duties at the hot corner. If he regains his previous form, he'll be one of the hottest waiver-wire additions next week.
Middlebrooks is streaky, and he's hot for the Padres. The youngster has hits in six consecutive games and eight RBIs during that stretch. He can be a frustrating player, though, once his bat goes cold.
Pick: Lamb has more upside, but adding Middlebrooks until he fizzles out also isn't a bad idea.