As the MLB season nears the halfway mark, optimizing fantasy rosters remains crucial for success. This week, the focus is on players under 40% rostered in Yahoo! leagues, presenting an opportunity for savvy managers to snag hidden gems. Key recommendations include Otto Lopez, whose impressive .333 batting average and dual eligibility provide solid value, and Kyle Stowers, showcasing power potential with a 19% barrel rate and a stellar hard-hit percentage.

Jo Adell is also highlighted despite his previous struggles, showing marked improvements in contact rates and power metrics, making him a worthwhile risk. Caleb Durbin and Tyler Freeman offer non-power contributions with high batting averages and contact rates, while pitchers Michael Soroka and Emmet Sheehan are discussed for their promising upside despite recent ERAs. Overall, these waiver picks could provide significant boosts as teams head into the second half of the season.

As we reach the halfway mark of the MLB season, with the Dodgers and Tigers on track for 100 wins, fantasy managers must pivot their strategies for the second half. Jose Soriano shows promise with a recent impressive run, while Edward Cabrera's command issues make him a risky FAAB target. Jacob Lopez has been stellar with his strikeout rate, but concerns linger. In the bullpen, Dylan Lee might seize more saves, while rookie Drake Baldwin has impressed offensively. Spencer Steer's resurgence is noteworthy as he competes for playing time with Austin Hays injured. Casey Schmitt is heating up for the Giants, and the Angels' Christian Moore might finally get his shot. Keep an eye on these players for FAAB bids this week!

As fantasy baseball managers navigate the complexities of Week 13, several undervalued hitters are emerging as key waiver wire targets. Alec Burleson of the St. Louis Cardinals, rostered in just 55% of leagues, has displayed significant power with four home runs and 11 RBIs in his last seven games. Colton Cowser of the Baltimore Orioles, recovering from injury, has returned to the lineup with a .622 slugging percentage since June 2. Javier Baez, now a Detroit Tiger, is showing signs of a comeback, boasting a 125 wRC+ and contributing to the Tigers’ strong season. Trevor Story of the Boston Red Sox, while inconsistent, has recently picked up his performance, hitting four homers in June. Lastly, Jo Adell of the Los Angeles Angels has caught attention with his power surge, hitting 10 homers just this month. Each of these players represents potential game-changers as the fantasy season progresses.

As the 2025 MLB season approaches the halfway mark, identifying key fantasy baseball contributors from the waiver wire is crucial. This week, players like Willi Castro and Javier Baez are racking up runs, with Castro hitting .319 and Baez contributing significantly in various positions. For power hitters, Ryan McMahon is proving his worth with six home runs this month, while Jo Adell continues to show promise with 16 homers this season. On the bases, Spencer Steer and Victor Scott II offer speed, and Ernie Clement is delivering a strong average with .380.

The fantasy landscape is evolving, with players like Casey Schmitt and Brooks Lee also emerging as valuable assets. As managers look to boost their lineups, these under-the-radar options could provide the necessary edge in the competitive fantasy landscape.

Jo Adell's recent surge in performance has rekindled interest, as he posted a .280/.365/.707 line with 10 home runs since May 29. Despite previous struggles with high strikeout rates, he's showing improvements this season, particularly with a career-low strikeout percentage. Comparatively, his expected stats suggest he could be performing at a higher level, which might make him more relevant in fantasy leagues.

Another name to watch is Michael Toglia, who has shown promise after returning from a demotion. He has hit three home runs in six games since his recall, albeit with an elevated strikeout rate. Meanwhile, Chad Patrick is highlighted as a two-start pitcher to consider, currently boasting a strong ERA and a favorable upcoming schedule. Additionally, Cam Smith has emerged as a versatile player contributing across multiple categories. Overall, these players could add value in fantasy leagues as the season progresses.