In the bustling world of fantasy baseball, Week 5 brings crucial waiver wire insights as players like Luke Weaver, Andy Pages, and Tony Gonsolin emerge as key targets. Weaver, boasting a solid 59% roster rate, is a pitcher's pick across leagues. Meanwhile, Pages has turned heads with a blistering .545 batting average and four homers over recent games. Injuries are also pivotal this week, with Mike Trout's knee issue and Arizona's Jordan Lawlar making a push for promotion.

Caleb Durbin and Bubba Chandler are also noteworthy, with potential value in deeper leagues. The overall landscape reflects the necessity to stay agile on the waiver wire, especially in leagues that prioritize daily moves. As the season heats up, maintaining a sharp focus on player performances and upcoming matchups will be essential for fantasy success.

Andrew Vaughn is under pressure as the Chicago White Sox maintain faith in the struggling first baseman. Despite batting a low .161 in April and having only two extra-base hits in his last 11 games, the team continues to support him, attributing part of his woes to bad luck. General manager Chris Getz acknowledged the need for mechanical adjustments while also keeping an eye on the impressive performance of Tim Elko in Triple-A, who boasts a .354 average with nine homers.

The White Sox face a tough season with injuries impacting their roster, including key players like Korey Lee and outfielders Mike Tauchman and Austin Slater. The team’s 7-21 record raises concerns, especially after a woeful 2024 season. Getz is optimistic about the club's farm system but noted that top prospect Colson Montgomery is struggling, batting just .149. The organization plans to provide him extra coaching.

Identifying top prospects before they surge in value is essential for fantasy baseball dynasty leagues. Focus on players in Low-A who are demonstrating significant potential, as these are the players likely to break into elite prospect lists shortly. Luis Peña of the Milwaukee Brewers is a standout with impressive stats, including a 147 WRC+ and 39 stolen bases last season, showing rapid improvement in swing decisions. Braylon Payne, also with the Brewers, adds to the excitement with a 133 WRC+ and 11 stolen bases this season. Andrew Salas of the Miami Marlins, despite being the youngest in Low-A, has shown elite performance with a 154 WRC+. Slade Caldwell of the Diamondbacks is making waves with a 188 WRC+ and a solid power display. Finally, Eduardo Tait, a catcher for the Phillies, is proving his worth with emerging power and a decent hit tool. These players should be high on your radar for future success.

Jeimer Candelario continues to struggle for the Cincinnati Reds, batting just .113 in 22 games this season, leading to a diminished role on the team. Manager Terry Francona addressed Candelario's situation following a recent five-game absence during the Reds' nine-game road trip. Currently in a three-year, $45 million contract, Candelario is facing stiff competition from teammates Spencer Steer and Noelvi Marte, both of whom have shown better offensive and defensive capabilities.

Francona emphasized that Candelario should focus on the quality of his at-bats rather than just chasing hits. With Steer and Marte producing more consistently, Candelario must refine his approach to regain an everyday spot in the lineup.

Texas Rangers’ outfield prospect Evan Carter is making waves with his recent performances, raising hopes for a future role in center field. After hitting a triple clocked at 100 mph and a three-run homer at 105 mph against Las Vegas, his batting average stands impressively at .333 over the last two weeks. Although he’s still managing back issues and adjusting his stance, his progress is encouraging for the Rangers, as he gears up for more consecutive starts.

Meanwhile, Alejandro Osuna, another rising star for the Rangers, is showcasing his skills at Double-A Frisco, extending his hitting streak to nine games after a rough start to the season. The organization's strategy to have him play center field daily continues to pay off, positioning him as a potential solution to the Rangers’ current center field dilemma.