Fantasy Baseball Risers and Fallers in Aftermath of MLB Trade Deadline
The 2024 MLB Trade Deadline certainly did not disappoint. Starting late last week, general managers made plenty of deals, which resulted in many players having their fantasy baseball values rise or fall. Here is a summary of the key points that managers need to know.
Risers
Jack Flaherty (SP, Los Angeles Dodgers) Jack Flaherty has been stellar this season with a 2.95 ERA and 0.96 WHIP. His move from the Tigers to the Dodgers not only boosts his win potential but also solidifies him as a stretch-run ace in all formats.
Jazz Chisholm Jr. (OF, New York Yankees) Chisholm's trade from Miami to New York is a significant upgrade. He now joins a team that ranks first in runs scored and moves from a pitcher-friendly park to a hitter-friendly one. Expect his power-speed blend to thrive in the Yankees' lineup.
Craig Kimbrel (SP, Baltimore Orioles) Despite a recent slump, Kimbrel remains the Orioles' closer. The team's decision to deepen their relief corps instead of adding a closer means Kimbrel should get ample opportunity to work through his issues.
Pete Fairbanks (RP, Tampa Bay Rays) Fairbanks retains his closer role after the Rays traded multiple relievers. Fantasy managers can breathe a sigh of relief as Fairbanks remains a reliable option for saves.
Josh Bell (1B, Arizona Diamondbacks) Bell's move to Arizona boosts his value temporarily. He replaces the injured Christian Walker and will bat cleanup for a team that ranks second in runs scored. Managers should grab him now but plan to drop him when Walker returns.
Austin Hays (OF, Philadelphia Phillies) Hays benefits from escaping Baltimore's outfield logjam and pitcher-friendly park. He will play regularly in the Phillies' potent lineup, contributing homers, RBI, and runs.
Erick Fedde (SP, St. Louis Cardinals) Fedde's move from the White Sox to the Cardinals should increase his win potential. He has been a ratios asset this year and will now pitch for a team with twice the wins of Chicago.
Hayden Birdsong (SP, San Francisco Giants) Birdsong's recent strong performances have earned him a spot in the Giants' rotation. His value has soared, making him a hot commodity on the waiver wire.
Jorge Soler (OF, Atlanta Braves) Soler gets a chance to replicate his 2021 success with the Braves after a disappointing season with the Giants. The park switch is an upgrade, and he could provide significant power down the stretch.
Miguel Vargas (2B/OF, Chicago White Sox) Vargas has impressive minor league numbers and will get regular playing time with the rebuilding White Sox. He's worth keeping an eye on for potential upside.
Joey Loperfido (1B/OF, Toronto Blue Jays) Loperfido's minor league success suggests he could break out with the Blue Jays. The team's retooling approach means he'll get full-time opportunities, making him a player to watch.
Connor Norby and Kyle Stowers (Miami Marlins) Both prospects were blocked in Baltimore but now have clear paths to playing time in Miami. Their minor league production suggests they could contribute in deeper leagues.
Tyler Ferguson (RP, Oakland A’s) With Lucas Erceg traded and Mason Miller on the IL, Ferguson is the top candidate for saves in Oakland. His recent performances make him a viable option for managers in need of relief help.
Falling
Carlos Estévez and Jeff Hoffman (RP, Philadelphia Phillies) Estévez's move to Philadelphia means he'll share closer duties with Hoffman. Both players see their save opportunities diluted, making them less valuable in shallow formats.
Tanner Scott (RP, San Diego Padres) Scott's elite ratios and save totals with the Marlins make him a setup man in San Diego. His value takes a hit as he joins a crowded relief corps.
Heston Kjerstad (OF, Baltimore Orioles) Kjerstad's role diminishes with the additions of Eloy Jiménez and Austin Slater. He becomes a backup outfielder and could soon return to the minors, making him droppable in mixed leagues.
Eloy Jiménez (OF, Baltimore Orioles) Jiménez's move to Baltimore doesn't boost his value as much as expected. His struggles this year and the presence of better options against right-handers mean he's only worth rostering if he starts against lefties.
In conclusion, the 2024 MLB Trade Deadline has significantly impacted fantasy baseball values. Managers should carefully consider these changes as they adjust their rosters for the stretch run.