Essential Waiver Wire Targets for June: Optimize Your Roster Now
June is the time when fantasy baseball managers need to step up their game, making crucial waiver wire moves to solidify their rosters. With broken rosters in need of attention, here are seven valuable waiver options, available in most Yahoo! leagues, that can provide significant boosts.
Jared Kelenic: Rising to the Occasion
When Ronald Acuña Jr. went down with a season-ending injury, it was a severe blow to the Braves. However, Jared Kelenic has risen to the challenge, stepping into a near-daily role. Currently batting .299 with an OPS of .856 since Acuña’s injury, Kelenic has also managed a seven-game hitting streak while occupying the leadoff spot. Despite experiencing the full spectrum of a prospect’s journey—from highly touted to post-hype—Kelenic is only 24 years old. Don’t count him out yet.
Luke Rice: Unexpected Catcher Value
Luke Rice has made a splash since his promotion from Triple-A, delivering hits in his first two games. Filling in at first base due to Anthony Rizzo’s injury, Rice retains catcher eligibility. This season, he has slashed .275/.393/.532 in the minors with 15 home runs and nine steals. Fantasy managers desiring a catcher with high upside should consider Rice, who can provide substantial value behind the plate.
Spencer Horwitz: On-Base Machine
Spencer Horwitz has quietly been producing since his call-up from Triple-A, going 12-for-34 with six walks. Known for his on-base skills, Horwitz was hitting an impressive .335/.456/.514 prior to his promotion. Leading off for the Jays, he brings low-double-digit potential in both home runs and steals. Horwitz is an asset in runs and average, without jeopardizing any standard categories.
Mark Vientos: Legit Power Threat
Mark Vientos has kicked off the week in style, with two three-hit games, including a home run. Hitting .305/.362/.533 this season with six homers in 116 plate appearances, Vientos offers legitimate power. He has multiple minor league seasons with 20-plus home runs and a .500 slugging percentage. Even if his batting average dips, the power remains a constant, making Vientos capable of delivering an additional 15-20 home runs this season, health permitting.
Brendan Donovan: The Versatile Option
A regular presence on waiver wire lists, Brendan Donovan’s flexibility is his strength. With eligibility across multiple positions, Donovan is perfect for leagues with short benches. A career .273 hitter with modest power and a lifetime OBP of .365, he offers versatile roster support. While not a game-changer, he remains a valuable bench piece.
Tanner Olson: Under-the-Radar Starter
Coming off a stellar performance against Atlanta, where he tossed six scoreless frames and struck out eight, Tanner Olson lowered his ERA to 3.39. Despite just one win this season—a product of poor run support—Olson’s deeper metrics (3.05 FIP, 8.1 K/9) underscore his effectiveness. His next start against the White Sox offers a prime opportunity for win No. 2, making him a savvy stream option.
Chad Green: Potential Closer
Chad Green is a compelling pick-up for those desperate for saves. The next save chance for the Jays should be his, according to the manager. This season, Green has posted a 0.89 WHIP over 16 appearances and maintains a career strikeout rate of 11.4 K/9. His closer capabilities provide a significant edge in competitive leagues.
These seven waiver wire gems can provide essential boosts to your fantasy baseball roster. Don’t wait until it’s too late—make the moves that could define your season.
