As the MLB season approaches the All-Star break, savvy fantasy baseball players are looking to bolster their rosters with under-the-radar hitters. This week, several players have emerged as strong candidates for waivers, offering potential boosts in critical categories like runs, home runs, RBIs, stolen bases, and batting average.

Josh Smith of the Texas Rangers, rostered in just 36% of leagues, continues to shine at the plate, boasting a .311 average with three home runs and 18 runs scored recently. Caleb Durbin of the Brewers is another name to watch, hitting .296 with three homers and 18 runs in June. Meanwhile, Ramon Laureano has returned to form with the Orioles, hitting .312 with four home runs and leading in runs scored.

For power hitters, Kyle Stowers of the Marlins is on the rise, hitting three home runs in the last week of June, while Gary Sanchez is making a significant impact for the Orioles as well, providing solid numbers despite limited playing time. Lastly, Otto Lopez is leading the NL in RBIs this month, making him a must-roster player. As the season progresses, these players could be the difference-makers for fantasy teams.

The New York Mets are rebounding from a tough phase, winning against the Atlanta Braves after a dismal 1-10 run. However, the victory came with a significant blow as pitcher Griffin Canning was lost for the season due to an Achilles injury. The team is in a state of flux as young prospect Ronny Mauricio shares infield duties with veterans Jeff McNeil and Brett Baty. Currently, Mauricio's stats show a .226 batting average, while McNeil and Baty boast better numbers with .255 and .225, respectively, both with eight home runs this season.

Compounding the decision-making for manager Carlos Mendoza, Mark Vientos is returning from injury, creating a logjam in the lineup. Mendoza is looking to maximize roster flexibility, suggesting extended play for McNeil in center field to accommodate Mauricio in the infield. With the Mets set to face the Pittsburgh Pirates, their pitching ace David Peterson, who holds a 2.98 ERA, steps to the mound, hoping to continue the team's newfound winning momentum.

The New York Mets recently faced significant injury challenges, with starting pitchers Kodai Senga and Tylor Megill landing on the injured list. The situation worsened when Griffin Canning suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon, potentially ending his season. In brighter news, Mark Vientos returns to the lineup after his own hamstring injury, looking to regain his 2024 postseason form, which saw him hit five home runs. The Mets are currently leading the NL East after winning two consecutive games, as they aim for their first division title since 2015.

The New York Mets continue to struggle despite being just a half-game out of first place in the National League East. With a dismal 2-8 record in their last ten games, they are desperate for reinforcements as they face the Atlanta Braves. A key player for them is third baseman Mark Vientos, who hasn't played since June due to a hamstring injury. Vientos, who has shown promise with a .266 batting average and solid production in the playoffs last year, could provide a much-needed boost upon his return.

His ability to pair with stars like Juan Soto, Pete Alonso, and Francisco Lindor could elevate the Mets as they look to turn their season around. Vientos revealed he expects to return shortly, emphasizing his belief in the importance of the long season. Meanwhile, the Mets will rely on Griffin Canning as their starter against Grant Holmes on Thursday, as they prepare for crucial matchups against the Pirates, Brewers, and Yankees ahead.

The New York Mets are in a tough place as they continue their six-game losing streak, now tied with the Philadelphia Phillies at the top of the NL East. Mark Vientos, who made a significant impact last postseason, is struggling this year with a .230 batting average and has been sidelined since June 2 due to a hamstring injury. Fortunately, he is expected to return for the Braves series, which could provide a much-needed boost for the struggling Mets.

Rookie pitcher Blade Tidwell is set for his second career start, stepping in as veteran arms Kodai Senga and Tylor Megill are on the injured list. The Mets face a tough challenge against the Phillies, with Zack Wheeler on the mound, who has been impressive this season with a 2.76 ERA. The Mets hope to break their streak and regain momentum in the series, especially with Vientos potentially back in the lineup.