Week 8 Waiver Wire Pickups
By Bill Pivetz
May 14, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Toronto Blue Jays left fielder
Chris Colabello(15) hits a double during the seventh inning against the Houston Astros at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
The waiver wire. This is where you win your league. The draft is important to develop a nice foundation for your team, your superstars and late-round sleepers. However, the waiver wire is where you take advantage of players riding a hot streak and win your weekly matchup. I’ve written about starting pitchers you should add to your team. So, here are three hitters to pick up from the waiver wire.
All ownership percentages are based on ESPN.com leagues.
Chris Colabello, TOR
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Colabello had two below-average seasons with the Minnesota Twins, 13 total home runs and a .214 batting average. All it took was a move to Canada to get Colabello going. In 20 games, he has three home runs, 12 RBI and a .372 batting average. The lineup structure helps him get the right pitches and be a productive fantasy option. As long as Michael Saunders is hurt, expected to miss an additional six to eight weeks, Collabello will be in the starting lineup. He also has eligibility at first base. Colabello is currently owned in 25.3 percent of leagues, so he’s widely available.
Mitch Moreland, TEX
After a shortened 2014 season, Moreland looks to be back on track this season. He was placed on the DL at the end of April and returned on May 13. Since his return, he hit four of his five home runs with eight RBI and a .313 batting average. As the Texas Rangers‘ starting first baseman, he will continue to get playing time. Just like Colabello, he has a great lineup around him, Prince Fielder is crushing the ball recently. Moreland is owned in just 10.8 percent of leagues. As a corner infielder or utility option, Moreland is a nice pickup.
Mike Napoli, BOS
Napoli was one of the best catchers in the league with the Los Angeles Angels. He then moved to first base as a member of the Boston Red Sox and has done well. While the Red Sox lineup has struggled in the month of May, Napoli is hitting the ball well. He has two hits in five of his last eight games and raised his batting average from .174 to .214 in that span. Obviously, average is not Napoli’s strong suit, but he can provide you with power and owners know this. His ownership percentage increased 21.1 percent and now sits at 37.8 percent.
While it does depend on the depth of your league, the waiver wire is full of players that can help your team. Whether it’s for a week or the rest of the season, there is always someone to pick up.