In the world of fantasy baseball, the shortstop position is a crucial one, and with injuries and performances fluctuating, managers are left scrambling for solutions. The recent news of Konnor Griffin's injury has left many in a bind, as he was expected to provide a boost in the second half of the season. With his absence, fantasy managers are now on the lookout for waiver-wire targets and trade options to fill the void.
Three SS to Target on Waivers
Jose Caballero - The Yankees' Caballero is a steal in categories leagues, offering a boost in steals despite a lack of power production this season. However, his roster rate is not expected to rise significantly.
Nasim Nunez - Leading the majors in steals and hitting over .300 since June, Nunez is a hot prospect. While his xBA is just .228 since June 1, his current success makes him a valuable addition.
Cooper Pratt - With a .305 expected batting average and a good approach at the plate, Pratt is a sleeper worth considering. His speed and ability to get on base make him an intriguing option.
Two SS to Target via Trade
Trea Turner - Despite a decline in performance, Turner's upside makes him a target for buy-low opportunities. At 33, he is in his decline phase, but his potential for a strong finish to the season is worth considering.
Geraldo Perdomo - Showing signs of life with a .283/.396/.398 batting line since June, Perdomo is a potential impact bat. While he has had trouble on the bases, his skill set and power potential make him a trade target.
Pre-Game Lineup Card
IL Stash Rankings - Scott White's rankings of the top 50 players to keep stashed on your IL heading into the second half of the season.
Bullpen Report - Tyler Wells of the Orioles is the top option in the ninth inning, with Scott White analyzing the best options for ninth-inning situations.
Top 25 Trade Candidates - Tarik Skubal and Freddy Peralta are among the biggest names on the market, with Mike Axisa ranking the top trade candidates.
Caminero for MVP - Junior Caminero's impressive performance has him in the AL MVP conversation, as explored by Matt Snyder.
Deadline Buyers' Guide - A guide to where every team stands less than four weeks out from the trade deadline.
Hitting the Wire
Luis Lara - The Brewers' top outfield prospect is a potential Griffin replacement, offering speed and a breakout season in Triple-A. However, his role is uncertain, making him an upside flier.
Ian Seymour - Despite a slow growth in roster rate, Seymour has been an impact pitcher for the Rays, topping 90 pitches twice and striking out 12 in 5.1 innings against the Yankees. He should be rostered in all formats.
A.J. Ewing - Ewing has been quite good, hitting .272/.355/.428 after a strong performance against the Royals. He has an OPS north of .850 since May and is improving his contact skills, making him a strong addition to any fantasy league.
Dominic Canzone - Canzone has started to play more regularly and is expected to stick, offering a higher ceiling for counting stats. Despite facing more lefties, his higher ceiling makes him a target.
Three Up, Three Down
Three Up
Ryan O'Hearn - O'Hearn had a game for the ages, hitting a grand slam and three-run homers to push him from 23rd in RBI to a tie for seventh place. His underlying numbers were trending in the wrong direction, making his performance even more impressive.
Zack Wheeler - Wheeler had a vintage performance, striking out 14 over seven one-run innings. Despite a lower arm angle and release height, he remains effective with a 2.28 ERA and 29.4% strikeout rate.
Taj Bradley - Bradley is red-hot again, with consecutive starts of double-digit strikeouts. While he has had inconsistent performances in the past, his current form makes him a potential buy-in.
Three Down
Will Warren - Warren's early-season success was remarkable, but his peripherals largely match last season's, making him a fringe-y Fantasy option. His ERA is back up to 4.15, indicating a decline in performance.
Hurston Waldrep - Waldrep isn't ready yet, with command issues and 10 walks in 10.2 innings. His best pitch, a splitter, needs to be complemented by a strong arsenal to succeed.
Paul Goldschmidt - Goldschmidt's revival seems over after a freefall since homering twice on June 24. His xwOBA over his past 100 plate appearances is just .258, indicating a decline in performance.
