Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: 8/28/26
The fantasy baseball landscape is ever-evolving, and staying on top of the waiver wire is crucial for any manager looking to gain an edge. This week's article delves into the players who are making waves and could be the key to your league's success. From power-hitting outfielders to emerging pitchers, these players are worth considering for your roster.
Top Priority Players to Add
Luis Robert Jr.
Luis Robert Jr. (NYM) is a player who has been on a tear since returning from a back injury. His bat speed has increased to an impressive 77.1 mph, resulting in eight home runs in just 96 at-bats. With a K-rate of 29%, Robert is a threat in categories leagues, and his batting average is up, currently sitting at .302 in August with a .955 OPS. His speed and power combination make him a valuable asset, and his return to health should boost his run game and sprint speed. However, it's worth noting that he hasn't stolen a base since his return, which could be an area of improvement.
Spencer Jones
Spencer Jones (NYY) is another outfielder worth considering. He has shown some streakiness and needed time to adjust to MLB pitching. Jones boasts impressive metrics, including an Average Exit Velo of 95 mph, a 16% barrel rate, and an xSLG higher than his actual SLG. His speed is also noteworthy, with a 92nd-percentile sprint speed and eight stolen bases since his call-up. However, his OPS of .729 and a K-rate in the bottom fifth percentile are areas of concern. Despite this, his OPS has improved significantly since the All-Star Break, indicating growth and potential.
Héctor Rodríguez
Héctor Rodríguez (CIN) has been a revelation since his call-up on August 4th. He started with a poor batting average of .083, but has since raised it by a hundred points, hitting .421 with three home runs in his last 19 at-bats. On August 26th, he hit two home runs in one game, including a 115.2-mph moonshot, showcasing his power. With a K-rate of 22% and a Whiff rate that supports his bat control, Rodríguez is an everyday player who should fill the power vacuum in the Reds' lineup.
Jacob Young
Jacob Young (WAS) sought help from Driveline to adjust his swing path and improve his exit velocities, and it seems to have paid off. Since the All-Star Break, he has hit .316 with an .890 OPS, a significant improvement from his earlier season performance. His Barrel rate and xSLG are up, and he has lowered his K-rate to a career-best 17.1%. Young's speed is also a notable asset, with an expectation to top 25 steals by season's end.
Lawrence Butler
Lawrence Butler (ATH) is a five-category contributor who showed signs of life in 2024. He is back in the Athletics' lineup, playing every day, and is more comfortable at the plate. Butler's patience at the dish has increased, with a walk rate of 11.9%, and his K-rate has dropped to around 25%. His OPS is still below .700, but his recent performance suggests a player who is finding his rhythm.
Yahoo and ESPN Most Added Players
Yahoo!
Tristan Peters: Peters has been a popular addition, extending his homer streak and raising his OPS by nearly 70 points. His .349/.730/1.168 August numbers are impressive, but his availability may be limited.
Connor Norby: Norby has received attention for his multi-position eligibility and hot-hitting Rockies. While his overall performance is average, his recent success and versatility make him a valuable addition.
Spencer Arrighetti: Arrighetti's K-rate has diminished, and his Toronto appearances have been underwhelming. It's best to avoid him until he shows improvement.
Hayden Wesneski: Wesneski's WHIP has been consistent, and his command is solid. His pitch, a sweeper, has a high Whiff rate and a .160 BAA, making it an elite pitch in baseball.
Noah Cameron: Cameron's ownership has soared, and his WHIP since the All-Star Break has been impressive. Hitters are struggling against him, making him a top choice.
ESPN
Trevor Rogers: Rogers' ownership on ESPN is higher than Cameron's, but his success may be due to luck. His sweeper has less break than Wesneski's, and his overall performance should be re-evaluated.
Sean Manaea: Manaea's ownership should be higher, but his recent outing against the Brewers was less impressive. His next start against the Rays will be a better indicator of his true value.
Streaming Pitchers
For streaming pitchers, Nick Pollack's rankings provide valuable insights. Two pitchers stand out:
Andrew Painter (PHI): Painter has ditched his splitter for a changeup, resulting in a 40% Whiff rate and a pitch that no one can hit. His fastball has great life, and his arsenal has been narrowed down to effective pitches.
Walker Buehler (SDP): Buehler's transformation to a pitch-to-contact arm has been successful. He's keeping the ball on the ground and in the yard, with a focus on his four-seamer and cutter. His risk may be worth the reward.
