As the 2025 MLB season reaches the All-Star break, fantasy baseball managers are scouring the waiver wire for unheralded hitters ready to break out. This week’s focus is on four players who have been on a tear lately and could be available for a fair price, particularly in deeper leagues.

Andrew Vaughn, recently acquired by the Milwaukee Brewers, is making waves with an impressive .429 batting average and 1.500 OPS over the last two weeks, hitting two home runs and driving in 10 RBIs. His hard contact rate indicates potential for further success, especially while filling in for the injured Rhys Hoskins.

Next is Angel Martinez from the Cleveland Guardians, who boasts three home runs and nine RBIs in his last 14 days, though his overall batting average remains a concern. The young player has shown flashes of power but struggles with plate discipline, making him a risky pickup.

Harrison Bader of the Minnesota Twins is another candidate, delivering a .296 average and 1.086 OPS, along with four home runs. His improved plate discipline and hard contact figures suggest he might be worth a deeper league spot.

Finally, Kyle Higashioka, the Texas Rangers' backup catcher, has enjoyed a hot streak, hitting .355 with three home runs over the past two weeks. However, his limited role and advanced age might temper what’s considered a short-term gain.

Nick Kurtz continued his impressive form, hitting a two-run home run to help the Athletics secure a 5-1 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. With this performance, Kurtz has now homered in five of the last six games, showcasing his power at the plate. Jeffrey Springs contributed with 7⅓ solid innings on the mound, allowing just three hits.

The Athletics achieved their sixth win in eight games, with Lawrence Butler also shining with three hits and an RBI. The Guardians, on the other hand, faced their 10th loss in 14 games, struggling offensively as they managed only 14 runs during a nine-game road trip.

Angel Martinez did hit a solo homer for Cleveland, but the team's offensive inefficiencies were highlighted, especially as Tanner Bibee gave up five runs in his complete game, despite striking out a season-high 10 batters. The Athletics capitalized on Cleveland's mistakes, particularly in the second inning, where errors contributed to their scoring opportunities.

The Cleveland Guardians have made a significant trade, sending All-Star Andrés Giménez to the Toronto Blue Jays. This move leaves the Guardians searching for a new second baseman following their recent playoff run.

Among the candidates to fill this role are Juan Brito, who had an impressive season in Triple-A, Angel Martínez, who has limited Major League experience, and Daniel Schneemann, a utility player with versatility on the field.

The New York Yankees are gearing up for the American League Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians, having included veterans Anthony Rizzo and Marcus Stroman on their roster. Rizzo, who recently recovered from a hand injury, might be a game-time decision for Game 1. Despite a challenging season, his defensive skills are expected to bolster the team's performance.

Stroman, serving as a long reliever, was left off the previous roster but is now crucial for managing the bullpen's workload in the seven-game series. The Yankees have made strategic roster changes, replacing rookie players to enhance their chances of reaching the World Series for the first time since 2009.

Anthony Rizzo has returned to the New York Yankees for the AL Championship Series against the Cleveland Guardians after recovering from a finger fracture sustained from a pitch. Rizzo, a three-time All-Star, had a challenging season but showed promise with a strong performance upon his return.

The Yankees also added Marcus Stroman to their roster while dropping Ben Rice and Duke Ellis. Meanwhile, the Guardians have bolstered their pitching staff by adding Pedro Avila and releasing Angel Martínez.