Week 12 of the 2025 MLB season sees a variety of waiver wire hitters who can significantly boost your fantasy baseball team across key categories like HR, RBI, SB, AVG, and runs. Notably, Giancarlo Stanton makes a return, adding power potential to a struggling Yankees lineup. Meanwhile, young talents such as Brady House and Max Muncy are stepping up, providing upside for fantasy managers looking to capitalize on emerging players.

Other noteworthy adds include veterans like Trevor Story and Jeff McNeil, both contributing significantly in their respective categories. With injuries and poor performances affecting many rosters, this week presents a prime opportunity to enhance your team with these players, ensuring you remain competitive in your leagues.

As we enter Week 12 of the fantasy baseball season, astute managers have a chance to capitalize on undervalued assets. This week, five hitters shine: Willi Castro, Josh Smith, Miguel Vargas, Ryan McMahon, and Sal Frelick. Each of these players has shown potential for significant impact, making them worthy additions to your roster.

Willi Castro of the Minnesota Twins has returned from injury with impressive stats, batting .370 over his last seven games. Josh Smith's versatility and recent performance for the Texas Rangers have made him a key contributor. Meanwhile, Miguel Vargas of the Chicago White Sox is establishing himself as a reliable hitter, while Ryan McMahon is leveraging Coors Field's advantages. Finally, Sal Frelick continues to impress with his solid batting average and base-stealing skills for the Milwaukee Brewers. These players present various opportunities for fantasy managers looking to enhance their lineups as the summer months approach.

As the 2025 MLB season progresses into Week 12, savvy fantasy baseball managers are on the lookout for potential waiver-wire pickups to bolster their teams. This week, several hitters are highlighted based on their low roster percentages across major platforms like ESPN and Yahoo.

Among the top recommendations is Ryan O'Hearn (BAL), who holds eligibility at both first base and the outfield and is especially valuable this week with only one left-handed pitcher facing him in a favorable schedule. Nathaniel Lowe (WSH) is also a noteworthy pickup, having shown consistent performance despite a lower roster rate. Meanwhile, Miguel Vargas (CHW) continues to perplex fantasy managers by remaining under the 50% threshold, despite his evident potential backed by impressive APR metrics.

For deeper leagues, consider Otto Lopez (MIA) and Thairo Estrada (COL), both having favorable matchups that could yield substantial points. Lopez has been showing signs of form with three consecutive top-100 finishes, while Estrada's return from injury has him primed for production. The landscape on the waiver wire is dynamic, with players like Eric Wagaman (MIA), proving to be solid options for those in need of versatile hitters.

Aaron Civale's recent trade to the Chicago White Sox has set the stage for a fresh chapter in his career. Having played against the team during his tenure in Cleveland, Civale expressed excitement about joining the White Sox and contributing to their efforts. The team has had a rocky start recently, suffering a heart-wrenching 5-4 loss to the Texas Rangers, despite an early lead. Civale is expected to take the mound on Sunday, looking to help the Sox break their losing streak.

The game against the Rangers highlighted some key performances, including Adolis García's walk-off single in the 11th inning and strong contributions from players like Luis Robert Jr. and Kyle Teel. As Civale prepares to join the roster, his track record as a starting pitcher may provide the stability the Sox need as they navigate a challenging season.

The Chicago White Sox faced a tough challenge in Houston against the Astros, coming close but ultimately falling 4-3. Mike Tauchman ignited hope with a ninth-inning home run, reducing the deficit to one run. The Sox battled throughout the game, with Edgar Quero driving in two runs and Miguel Vargas doubling off the wall as they threatened a comeback. However, Astros closer Josh Hader struck out Austin Slater to seal the victory, marking yet another series loss for the Sox against Houston.

Despite the loss, manager Will Venable praised his team's effort, signaling a growing frustration over losing close games. Sox starter Davis Martin expressed the need for better momentum management, particularly after giving up runs immediately following their scoring efforts. The performance showcased both the potential of the Sox’s offense and the challenges they face in closing out games against elite pitchers like Framber Valdez, who managed to keep the Sox at bay despite their eight-hit performance against him.