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 are reportedly considering a reunion with Isaac Paredes, the former player they traded to acquire Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. MLB insider Jon Heyman suggests that, if the Astros decide to sell due to their declining offensive output, Paredes could fill the Cubs' third base void.

Paredes has had a productive season with a .267 batting average, 6 home runs, and 19 RBIs. The Cubs, facing an unsuccessful experiment with prospect Matt Shaw as a starter, might look to bring back a player they once valued enough to trade for. With limited options available for quality third basemen, the Cubs may see this as an opportunity to improve their roster significantly.

The shortstop position continues to be a goldmine for fantasy baseball players, with nine shortstops ranked within the top 50, promising ample opportunities in early rounds. Drafting top-tier talent is essential, but savvy managers should also consider late-round options with breakout potential. Players like Xavier Edwards and Carlos Correa present unique value this season, while Masyn Winn and Bo Bichette offer intriguing upside. Edwards, for instance, demonstrated exceptional speed, projecting a potential 40 steals, while Correa's per-game production indicates he may be undervalued at his current ADP. Meanwhile, the bounce-back potential of former stars like Bichette makes him a tempting pick for those who miss out on elite talents.