As the All-Star break approaches, savvy fantasy baseball managers are assessing their lineups for potential playoff success. Week 15 brings several under-the-radar waiver wire picks who can greatly enhance your roster, especially in light of injuries or the need for temporary fill-ins. Players like Tyler Freeman of the Colorado Rockies, who boasts strong run production as the leadoff hitter, and Evan Carter of the Texas Rangers, who has shown impressive speed and power recently, are notable options. Their low ownership percentages make them worthy targets for managers looking to boost their teams without significant FAAB impacts.

Nolan Schanuel from the Angels continues to impress with his gradual improvements, while Caleb Durbin of the Brewers has been heating up since becoming a full-time starter. Lastly, rookie Colson Montgomery from the White Sox has made a splash in his recent call-up, showcasing his potential as a high-risk, high-reward addition. With these players, now is the time to act on the waiver wire and optimize your roster for the critical stretch run.

The 2025 MLB season is reaching its midpoint, revealing playoff races heating up and distinct patterns in player performance. Advanced metrics have evolved past traditional luck explanations, pinpointing hitters suffering from bad luck. RotoWire's analysis breaks down the unluckiest hitters, showcasing players like Juan Soto and Bryan Reynolds, who despite lower stats, show significant gaps between their expected and actual performance.

Juan Soto, now with the New York Mets, signed a historic $765 million contract but has yet to fully hit his stride, while Bryan Reynolds of the Pittsburgh Pirates struggles despite a promising expected slugging percentage. Meanwhile, Mike Trout of the Angels has faced injury woes impacting his season. Statistically, Trout's expected metrics suggest he should be faring better than his .230 batting average. Others like Brenton Doyle and Michael Conforto similarly face unfortunate trends that impact their fantasy value.

Marcus Stroman is poised to make his return to the New York Yankees' rotation, overcoming knee pain linked to a long-standing ACL injury. After a rocky start to the season and a series of rehabilitation appearances, Stroman aims to reclaim his form against the Athletics. Yankees manager Aaron Boone emphasizes the importance of command for Stroman, who previously had a respectable season in 2023. Meanwhile, Spencer Jones made an impressive debut with a home run for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, showcasing his potential for the Yankees' future.

Wander Franco of the Tampa Bay Rays has received a suspended two-year prison sentence after being found guilty of sexually abusing a minor in the Dominican Republic. Meanwhile, Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. has been named to the Team USA roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, joining notable players like Aaron Judge and Paul Skenes.

In other news, Arizona Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte hit a home run but was visibly emotional after a fan insulted him regarding his deceased mother during a game. Teammate Corbin Carroll is optimistic about a brief stint on the injured list. Additionally, the Diamondbacks have signed veteran catcher James McCann.

The Rays also dealt with injury as Hunter Bigge was hospitalized after being struck by a foul ball, though he remained conscious. Tensions flared in a recent game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Diego Padres, leading to a bench-clearing incident. Notably, Dodgers catcher Will Smith hit a record-setting pinch-hit walk-off home run.

Corbin Carroll, a key outfielder for the Arizona Diamondbacks, is optimistic about a swift return from his current injury. Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks added veteran catcher James McCann to their roster, enhancing their depth behind the plate.

In darker news, Tampa Bay Rays star Wander Franco faces serious allegations of sexual abuse, with prosecutors seeking a five-year prison sentence. Teammate Hunter Bigge recently endured a frightening incident, getting struck in the face by a foul ball, but thankfully is recovering. The Rays are also engaging in advanced talks regarding a potential sale of the franchise.

On a lighter note, the Los Angeles Dodgers witnessed an intense moment as manager Dave Roberts clashed with San Diego Padres' Mike Shildt during a heated game. Will Smith made headlines by hitting a pinch-hit, walk-off home run, further solidifying his reputation in clutch situations. Brandon Lowe's pinch-hit home run helped the Rays mount a dramatic comeback against the Baltimore Orioles, showcasing the team's resilience.