As the fantasy baseball season progresses, some hidden gems emerge on the waiver wire, promising to outperform their more popular peers. The Chicago Cubs' Matt Shaw, available in 74% of ESPN leagues, has transformed following a Triple-A stint. After struggling initially, he returned with a .360 batting average and improved strikeout rate. Similarly, the Los Angeles Angels' Zach Neto has shown resilience after shoulder surgery, boasting a .284 average with impressive power numbers.

Pittsburgh Pirates' Spencer Horwitz, available in 90% of leagues, is generating buzz due to his plate discipline and potential for growth, even though he may be limited against left-handers. For deeper leagues, the Washington Nationals’ Robert Hassell III represents a post-hype prospect, now getting consistent playing time and the chance to leverage the team’s aggressive base running. The Cubs' Daniel Palencia is a closer in the making, while Jameson Taillon offers two-start potential against weak opponents. Hayden Birdsong, adjusting from relief to rotation, is a deeper league target for his high strikeout rates.

The Chicago Cubs face a significant challenge following a 4-0 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers, compounded by the injury of their star pitcher, Shota Imanaga, who has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a hamstring strain. Team president Jeb Hoyer expressed confidence in the Cubs' depth, emphasizing the need for others, particularly Colin Rea, to step up in Imanaga's absence. Rea has been impressive, winning all four games he has started with an ERA of 1.86. Matthew Boyd is set to start against the San Francisco Giants as the Cubs aim to maintain their competitive edge. Hoyer reassured fans that the team will manage day by day until Imanaga's return.

As fantasy baseball enters Week 3, savvy managers are eyeing the waiver wire for relief pitchers who can help secure saves. Anthony Bender of the Miami Marlins, now a prominent closer after Calvin Faucher's struggles, has started strong with five scoreless innings and is widely available. Meanwhile, Dennis Santana of the Pittsburgh Pirates has stepped into the closer role following David Bednar's demotion, although his underlying metrics raise some red flags. Luke Jackson of the Texas Rangers is a must-add, boasting five saves despite a rocky start to the season. In deeper leagues, A.J. Minter of the New York Mets is a speculative pickup given Edwin Diaz's recent struggles, while Emilio Pagan fills in temporarily for the Cincinnati Reds during Alexis Diaz's rehab. The Colorado Rockies' closer situation remains murky with Seth Halvorsen, Victor Vodnik, and Jake Bird all vying for a chance, leaving fantasy managers in wait-and-see mode.

The early chaos of the 2025 MLB season has already left fantasy baseball managers scrambling for talent due to a slew of injuries. Notable waiver wire pickups this week include Spencer Torkelson, who has shown remarkable power and contact ability early on, along with Tyler Soderstrom, who is gaining momentum with the Athletics. Kyle Manzardo is also making a case for deeper league consideration following a strong start. Other names worth watching include Otto Lopez, who offers speed and versatility, and Lars Nootbaar, who is taking advantage of a leadoff spot with the Cardinals. Pitchers Sean Burke and Jose Soriano have also registered impressive outings, making them valuable streaming options.

The Chicago Cubs are on the verge of strengthening their pitching staff with the addition of veteran right-hander Brad Keller, who has reportedly agreed to a minor league contract that includes an invitation to spring training. Keller, a Rule 5 draft selection by the Kansas City Royals in 2017, made his MLB debut in 2018 and had notable success from 2018 to 2020, posting a 3.50 ERA in 78 appearances. However, he faced challenges in subsequent seasons, including a 5.39 ERA in 2021 and a season-ending surgery in 2023. He recently pitched for the Boston Red Sox, struggling with a 5.84 ERA in 11 relief appearances.

Additionally, the Cubs are in negotiations with left-hander Brandon Hughes, who was an effective closer in 2022, achieving a 3.12 ERA over 57 appearances. Unfortunately, Hughes encountered knee issues that limited his 2023 performance to just 17 games, and he struggled with the Diamondbacks in 2024. At 29 years old, both Keller and Hughes still have potential to contribute, either on the main roster or as depth options in the minors.