As the MLB season heats up, savvy fantasy baseball managers are keen to capitalize on the latest waiver wire pickups. Week 12 presents exciting additions like David Bednar, who has been a dominant force in June, boasting a stellar 0.56 WHIP and 15.2 K:9 ratio over 5 1/3 innings. Meanwhile, Brady House, recently promoted to the majors, is demonstrating his potential with a .364 batting average in his first three games. Additionally, players like Nick Kurtz and Evan Carter show promise as emerging talents worth considering for roster spots.

Injuries remain a concern, with star players like Corbin Carroll day-to-day and Bryce Harper still on the IL. Fantasy managers must stay vigilant, ready to make strategic moves to enhance their teams as we near the halfway mark of the season.

The Colorado Rockies brought back memories of their powerful past, the Blake Street Bombers, by hitting seven home runs in a thrilling 10-6 win against the Washington Nationals. This marked the Rockies' first three-game winning streak of the season, with standout performances from Michael Toglia, who hit two homers, and Hunter Goodman, who added a three-run shot. The Rockies, despite struggling this season with a 16-57 record, showcased their potential as a slugging team.

Their home run explosion included contributions from Thairo Estrada, Ryan McMahon, and Sam Hilliard, culminating in a franchise record of ten homers over two games against the Nationals. Antonio Senzatela delivered a solid pitching performance, allowing just one unearned run over five innings, counterbalancing a shaky outing from reliever Anthony Molina, who surrendered five runs in the final two innings.

Royce Lewis will be sidelined again due to a mild left hamstring strain, following an MRI that confirmed the injury he sustained while sprinting to first base. This setback comes after he had just begun to find his rhythm at the plate, breaking out of a 0-for-32 slump. Lewis expressed frustration, feeling as though the game is 'picking on' him with injuries. The Minnesota Twins are expected to make an official roster move soon, likely promoting outfielder DaShawn Keirsey Jr. to fill the gap left by Lewis.

Meanwhile, Twins reliever Danny Coulombe’s remarkable scoreless-inning streak ended at 27 1/3 innings during a recent game, marking a significant achievement for a pitcher who had not allowed a run since May 2024. Manager Rocco Baldelli praised Coulombe for his performance and contribution to the bullpen. Additionally, Louie Varland engaged in a lighthearted 'anthem standoff' before a game, drawing cheers from his teammates, showing the camaraderie and spirit within the team.

Three promising MLB prospects, Samuel Basallo, Chase Burns, and Bubba Chandler, are currently at the Triple-A level, making significant strides and should be considered for fantasy baseball teams. Basallo, a catcher for the Baltimore Orioles, is showing off his power with 13 home runs this season and could soon fill in for an injured Ryan Mountcastle. Chase Burns, the Cincinnati Reds' top pitching prospect, boasts an impressive 1.68 ERA and a high strikeout rate, making him a strong candidate for a major league debut as the Reds pursue playoff contention. Lastly, the Pittsburgh Pirates' Bubba Chandler maintains a solid 2.49 ERA and has shown exceptional strikeout potential, highlighting him as a must-stash player for fantasy owners.

As Week 11 unfolds in the 2025 fantasy baseball season, several bullpens are undergoing significant changes that could impact fantasy managers' strategies. The Arizona Diamondbacks have found themselves in a committee situation, with Justin Martinez and Shelby Miller sharing save opportunities. However, Martinez's recent elbow discomfort raises questions about the team's closer role.

Meanwhile, the Atlanta Braves' bullpen is in disarray, with Raisel Iglesias struggling and other options lacking clarity. Tanner Scott remains the closer for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but with the return of Kirby Yates and Michael Kopech, both pitchers could emerge as solid options if Scott falters.

The Texas Rangers have officially named Robert Garcia as their closer, while the St. Louis Cardinals face a potential shifting in their closing duties as Ryan Helsley continues to underperform. Speculation surrounds who could step into the role if Helsley's struggles continue. As these changes unfold, savvy fantasy owners should keep a close eye on these bullpens and consider making roster adjustments accordingly.