Week 20 of the 2025 MLB season tightens the fantasy clock on IL stashes, spotlighting 25 players rostered in under 65% of leagues who could spark late-season bursts. Bryce Miller and Jac Caglianone anchor the list, with concrete returns in late August to September, plus five notable adds that could swing playoff rosters. A dedicated monitor segment flags Miller, Taillon, Caglianone and others as players whose rehab progress could vault rosters in redraft formats. The focus stays on tangible timelines and avoided undetermined returns to maximize late‑season upside.

Across Seattle, KC, STL, ARI, BAL, HOU and beyond, elbow, forearm, ankle, shoulder and oblique injuries are the talking points as rosters tighten. IL stashes are portrayed not as speculative gambles but practical assets for playoff pushes, with clear timelines guiding adds and drops. The piece leans into rehab progress, line‑up context and the back‑half slate, helping managers map out IL utilization and weekly moves to gain edge in fantasy playoffs.

KC sits four games back of the Yankees in the AL Wild Card race as they chase a late-season push. Jac Caglianone, the Royals’ 2024 top pick, is on the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain; a rehab assignment could start next week as he attempts to reset his timing after a rough MLB debut (.147/.485 OPS in 150 at-bats). In his absence, Randal Grichuk has taken over right field duties. Kansas City has won four of its last five, including wins over playoff contenders, signaling a potential late surge if Caglianone returns healthy and productive.

The Royals’ veteran depth, combined with Grichuk’s steady defense and occasional power, provide a path for momentum while the rookie recalibrates. Manager Matt Quatraro gave an encouraging update on the plan, underscoring the franchise’s hope that a month away from the majors could help Caglianone regain his form and confidence. With the Yankees looming, Kansas City must navigate pitching injuries and stay in the mix as the stretch drive unfolds.

As the second half of the MLB season approaches, fantasy baseball managers are actively scouring the waiver wire for players who can provide a boost. This week features promising pickups, notably Jac Caglianone, Brice Matthews, and Luis Gil among others.

Caglianone, with his dual-position eligibility as a first baseman/outfielder, presents a valuable option for teams looking to bolster their lineups. Meanwhile, Brice Matthews, despite a rocky start post-promotion, holds potential for growth and should be monitored closely. Gil is a stash candidate as he nears a return from injury, showcasing impressive strikeout potential in his rehab.

As the fantasy baseball season enters its second half, savvy managers must keep an eye on potential breakout candidates to bolster their rosters. Players like Jac Caglianone of the Kansas City Royals are showing signs of life despite a slow start, thanks to a drastic improvement in his launch angle and a notable gap between expected and actual performance metrics. Colt Keith of the Detroit Tigers also stands out, with a rising fly ball rate and solid minor league stats indicating untapped potential. Meanwhile, Luis Robert Jr. of the Chicago White Sox is drawing interest from multiple teams, suggesting a resurgence is imminent.

Interestingly, Joe Boyle from the Tampa Bay Rays has excelled in the minors before struggling in his recent appearances; however, with the potential for a rotational spot, he could become a valuable asset. Bubba Chandler and Grant Taylor are also names to watch as post-hype sleepers, showcasing strong outings and impressive stats. The second half of 2025 could yield significant returns from these undervalued talents, making them worth pursuing on the waiver wire or via trade.