Jeremiah Jackson and Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Gems: Top Picks for Your Team
The fantasy baseball season is a marathon, not a sprint, and staying ahead requires constant attention to the waiver wire. Thanks to recent developments, including opportunities created by teams like the White Sox, there’s a fresh crop of exciting rookies and undervalued veterans available. While names like Noah Schultz and Sam Antonacci are generating buzz, don’t overlook the potential of seasoned players who can provide immediate impact, especially in head-to-head leagues.
Pitching Prospects to Watch
Mick Abel, SP, Twins (20% Rostered)
After a spring training that had many excited, Abel stumbled in his initial outings. However, he’s quickly regained his form, striking out 16 batters in his last 13 scoreless innings. Chasing upside is crucial in April, and Abel offers significant potential for fantasy managers.
Landen Roupp, SP, Giants (26% Rostered)
For those focused on the long term, Roupp is a compelling add. He consistently induces ground balls, boasts strong strikeout skills, and has improved his walk rate. His recent performance – a 2.38 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, and 24:7 K:BB ratio – is outstanding. Be aware his next start is at Dodger Stadium, which might temper immediate expectations.
Noah Schultz, SP, White Sox (39% Rostered)
Schultz’s debut wasn’t spectacular, but his underlying talent is undeniable. The 6-foot-10 lefty posted a 19:2 K:BB ratio in Triple-A before his call-up. He’s a former first-round pick with massive upside and should be added in most formats, with a reassessment after his start against the Athletics.
Kyle Harrison, SP/RP, Brewers (26% Rostered)
Harrison was generating buzz in spring training before minor injuries stalled his momentum. Fortunately, he’s avoiding the IL, and his return could make him a valuable two-start pitcher next week. Now is the perfect time to add him to your roster.
Relief Pitchers with Save Upside
Bryan Baker, RP, Rays (18% Rostered)
Baker has established himself as the Rays closer, racking up four saves in his last five outings. While the Rays share save opportunities, Baker is likely to receive the majority, potentially leading to a 30-save season.
Louie Varland, RP, Blue Jays (9% Rostered)
In deeper leagues, Varland is a speculative add. With Blue Jays closer Jeff Hoffman struggling, Varland (0.00 ERA, 16:3 K:BB ratio) could quickly emerge as the team’s primary closer.
Position Player Potential
Dillon Dingler, C, Tigers (33% Rostered)
Dingler is currently leading catchers in xBA, xSLG, and xwOBA. His elite defense ensures playing time, and his improving plate skills position him as a potential top-12 catcher.
Sam Antonacci, 2B/3B, White Sox (11% Rostered)
Antonacci is an on-base machine with a lifetime .445 OBP in the minors. He’s also speedy, having stolen 53 bases. While his power is limited, he’s worth a look in 12-team formats, especially for those needing steals and batting average.
Angel Martinez, 2B/OF, Guardians (43% Rostered)
Martinez is trending upwards in nearly every offensive category. He’s improved his strikeout rate and is hitting the ball harder, utilizing his 66th percentile sprint speed to steal four bases. He’s becoming a five-category contributor.
Daulton Varsho, OF, Blue Jays (44% Rostered)
Varsho showed power potential in 2025 despite injury setbacks. He’s heating up with three home runs in his last six games and regularly bats second in the lineup.
Brandon Marsh, OF, Phillies (10% Rostered)
Marsh is posting a solid .290/.318/.452 slash line with consistent expected stats. He’s a reliable contributor who can fill a hole in your lineup, potentially providing 15 home runs and 15 stolen bases.
Max Muncy, 3B, Dodgers (43% Rostered)
Muncy is an underrated power source with four home runs in 17 games. Streaming him this weekend against right-handed starters at Coors Field could be a smart move.
Jung Hoo Lee, OF, Giants (10% Rostered)
Lee is a consistent hitter against right-handed pitching, with a .750 OPS. He’s poised to reach base frequently and score runs against the Nationals’ struggling staff.
Jeff McNeil, 2B/OF, Athletics (7% Rostered)
Similar to Lee, McNeil is a contact hitter who can be helpful in favorable matchups. He’ll face a mediocre White Sox staff in a hitter-friendly home park this weekend.
Streaming Options
Consider these pitchers for streaming opportunities this weekend:
- Ryan Weathers vs. KC (Sunday)
- Andrew Painter vs. ATL (Sunday)
- Grant Holmes @ PHI (Sunday)
- Nick Martinez @ PIT (Friday)
- Noah Schultz @ ATH (Sunday)
Don’t be afraid to be active on the waiver wire – it’s often where championships are won!
