New York heads September in playoff contention, but a brutal late-season slate tests the Yankees as they face four AL juggernauts: Astros, Blue Jays, Red Sox and Tigers. Roster expansions and injuries shape a pivotal stretch, with Yarbrough and Slater back in action to bolster depth.

Contenders aren’t standing pat: IKF lands with the Blue Jays, Heaney with a pennant hopeful, and Mayza joins the Phillies, altering late-inning matchups across the league. Fantasy players should monitor bullpen roles, lineup shifts, and the impact of these moves as the chase nears October.

Grant Hartwig, a 27-year-old right-handed pitcher for the New York Mets, has signed with the Hanshin Tigers in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball, marking a pivotal turn in his career. After a challenging 2023 MLB season with a 4.84 ERA and a meniscus tear that restricted him to just 6.2 innings in 2024, Hartwig's move signals a fresh start. Previously an undrafted free agent from Miami (Ohio), he demonstrated resilience in Triple-A with a solid 3.42 ERA over 23.2 innings.

The side-winding pitcher, known for his impressive 95 mph sinker, has the potential to thrive in Japan's competitive environment. There’s optimism that he could return to the U.S. with enhanced skills, making him an intriguing player to monitor for fantasy leagues in the coming years.

Three top MLB prospects are set to make significant impacts in fantasy baseball: Nick Kurtz, Noah Cameron, and Grant Taylor. As the season progresses, these players are not just potential waiver wire pickups but could be the game-changers your fantasy team needs.

Nick Kurtz, a first baseman for the Oakland Athletics, has impressed with his power numbers, hitting eight home runs in just 36 games after an eye-popping minor league performance. Despite a rocky start in the majors, his recent surge with a 1.639 OPS showcases his potential. Noah Cameron, a promising left-handed pitcher for the Kansas City Royals, boasts a remarkable 1.91 ERA across his first seven starts and has developed an effective five-pitch arsenal, making him a must-add in most fantasy formats. Lastly, Grant Taylor, a reliever with the Chicago White Sox, has shown promise in a limited role and could become a closer candidate as he develops further. With the right timing and strategic moves, these prospects could propel your fantasy team to new heights.