Detroit Tigers Steven Moya: Deep Waiver Wire Add
By Brad Kelly
Steven Moya will be tasked with filling in for the Detriot Tigers after they lost J.D. Martinez to injury. Should fantasy owners be interested?
The A.L. Central is shaping up to be one of the most highly contested division races this season. The Tigers have had an up and down 2016 so far, but the recent injury to J.D. Martinez will serve as a huge obstacle in their postseason aspirations. But, could Steven Moya be an answer?
On paper, the Tigers offense heading into the season was absolutely loaded. Even though they have had their fair share of lulls this season, they have been able to showcase the offensive upside they are capable of with hitters like Ian Kinsler, Miguel Cabrera, Victor Martinez, and Nick Castellanos, leading the way. But, prior to J.D. Martinez’s recent surge at the plate, he started the season slowly.
Therefore, his injury coming during the midst of his hot streak, terrible timing for fantasy owners and the Tigers. Which brings us to, Steven Moya, and his second promotion this season.
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Moya was a free agent signee out of Puerto Rico when he was only 17, and throughout his time in the minors, he has been long lauded for his raw power. He also happens to be a huge human, standing in at 6’7 and tipping the scales at 260 pounds.
Moya is now 24, and would more than likely have made the team out of spring training if not for the Justin Upton signing. He made his major league debut in 2014 and was promoted last season as well, but had only played in 20 career games prior to this season.
He was promoted earlier this season as the team was searching for offensive answers in the outfield. He played well during his short time with the club, yet was jettisoned again after Cameron Maybin finally made his return. Moving forward, Moya is in line to get his first chance at an extended look in the big leagues.
Like most hitters of his build and stature, Moya will have his fair share of strikeouts. But, his power is prestigious, further evidenced by his 118 minor league career homers. He has also produced minor league seasons with 72, 84, and 105 RBI, so he certainly has the track record of being a run producer.
On the season, he currently sits with a, .275/1 HR/3 RBI/.745 OPS, line. Besides his well documented power, he has also been hitting the ball well over first three starts this month. Capped by a three hit performance on June 19th, where he hit his first major league dinger.
Next: Week 12: Top Waiver Wire Hitters Available
Fantasy sports are a speculative game, making players like Moya an enticing add. The AVG will more than likely hover around .250, but the power is legit, and he should offer owners plenty of counting stat potential as he hits behind the more established Tigers’ hitters. These are the type of moves that could carry a fantasy team to the playoffs, so at least give him a closer look off the waiver wire.