We’re now a week past the trade deadline and now that the dust has settled, new opportunities are there for guys you weren’t counting on to rack up fantasy points. The playing time situation has shifted for several teams so we’ll be seeing some fresh faces climbing the points lists. One such newcomer is Carter Kieboom (28) This could be the start of something. After struggling against major league pitching to the point that he’s spent most of the season in the minors he’s back and rewarded anyone who was brave enough to start him with a 28 point week. He’s out there in virtually every league so run to the waiver wire right now to add him in case he can keep this up. He was a highly-touted prospect so it’s not he lacks talent. I’d say the potential return is worth the last player on your bench. Let’s see who else had a good week.
Rafael Ortega (38) A strong week was driven by a 3 homer night that netted him 21 points. Don’t let that take away from his performance since taking over as the lead-off hitter on the 21st. Over his last 7 games, he’s batting over .450 with 4 bombs, 9 runs, 9 RBIs and has even swiped a couple of bags. His roster percentage is still pretty low and he could be a great option if you need help in the outfield. This week continued strong season numbers. Now that he has an everyday spot he’ll get a chance to show what he can do.
Jonathan India (35) 4 dingers and 4 doubles will move you up the points list. A week is a small sample size so we can’t always draw any meaningful conclusions other than that a guy is hot. However, in India’s case, we know he has staying power because we’ve seen him do it all season. Runs are driving his value along with the doubles. Most likely already rostered but if he’s not, change that.
Bryce Harper (40) Looks like we’re finally getting the Harper we were promised. He’s been fire over the last week and it just highlights the excellent season he’s been having. He can be a star when he’s on and this year he’s locked in.
Dansby Swanson (36) He’s been the Dansby the Mansby this week mashing to the tune of a ,478 average with some power and speed. No doubt those of you that drafted him have been pleased with his performance this season.
Anthony Rizzo (34) So far so good in his move the Bronx with a trio of dongs. Unfortunately, he only has 6 RBIs in that span. With the way the Yankees seem to want to win I’m not sure how much that situation will change but if they can figure out how to play a little small ball once in a while he could actually have guys on base to drive in.
J.T. Realmuto (34) For one week at least J.T. was not only the top catcher, he was also up there among the league leaders in points. If you drafted him, you haven’t hated his performance all season even if the premium you paid wasn’t worth it.
Ahmed Rosario (27) Grey just told you to buy him and who am I to argue with that? He’s on a nice run and I would add him in deeper leagues or as an injury fill-in. He can slot in either at short or in the outfield which is always a nice little bonus.
Ryan Mountcastle (33) Batting .500 with 3 bombs and 3 doubles is a pretty good week in points leagues. Aside from the sky-high average, that’s right in line with what he’s been providing all season. He’s not the sexiest option but he’s been getting the job done.
Donovan Solano (27) Hopefully you got to enjoy seeing his points in your lineup, but just by his roster percentage not many of you did. Weeks like this would likely see him on more rosters but unfortunately, he may not get that chance with Giants due to having several guys returning from injury. That could put Solonao into a timeshare and that won’t help your team. At least he had a good week and if he can keep swinging a hot bat he could find himself in the lineup more often.
Yadiel Hernandez (28) He should have an everyday spot in the heart of the order now that the Nats are rebuild mode and shipped off everyone else. That leaves Hernandez to hold down the fort and thus far he’s flashed some power. That brings him into play in deeper leagues or if you need some depth.
Jarred Kelenic (28) Looks like the rookie might finally be adjusting to major league pitching. That’s great news for a guy who was hyped up quite a bit before the season. There’s a good chance someone kicked him to the curb following his demotion so this is your chance to scoop him up.
Abraham Toro (24) Talked about him last week as a guy to add and he’s continued to get at-bats. Even better, he’s taken advantage of those at-bats and is turning into a very solid source of points. He could even turn into a difference-maker for your squad down the stretch.
As always, hit me up here or on Twitter @deltaxi1842
