Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: 8/17/26
The waiver wire is a crucial aspect of fantasy baseball, offering a chance to bolster your roster with undervalued players. This week's article highlights some top priority picks, most-added players, and streaming options to consider.
Top Priority Players to Add
Samuel Basallo (BAL) - C (Yahoo - 36%)
Basallo's season was cut short by a shoulder injury, but his rehab assignment signals a return soon. With Adley Rutschman traded, Basallo is poised for a prominent role in the final weeks, potentially becoming a top-five catcher. His power and OPS make him a must-add.
Abimelec Ortiz (WSN) - 1B, OF (Yahoo - 14%)
Ortiz's recent performance is impressive, with a .300/.317/.700 slash and a 388-foot home run. Despite limited playing time against left-handed pitching, his quick start has excited fans. With a low walk rate, his long-term prospects remain uncertain, but his current form is undeniable.
Yahoo and ESPN Most Added Players
Chase Meidroth (https://pitcherlist.com/player/chase-meidroth/)
Meidroth's .280 batting average is respectable, but his lack of power and speed makes him less appealing. His strong performance against left-handed pitching (169 wRC+) is a positive, but he's best suited for points leagues.
Ben Joyce (https://pitcherlist.com/player/ben-joyce/)
Joyce's return from shoulder surgery is promising, as he showcased his power with a 104 mph pitch. While his injury history is a concern, the need for saves makes him a viable option. The Angels' strategy to avoid back-to-back games is a potential limitation.
Nolan Arenado (https://pitcherlist.com/player/nolan-arenado/)
Arenado's bounce-back season is evident with a grand slam and multiple home runs. However, an MRI is scheduled due to left-side discomfort. Despite this, his .764 OPS ranks well among third basemen, making him a valuable addition.
Alejandro Kirk (https://pitcherlist.com/player/alejandro-kirk/)
Kirk's modest six-game hitting streak and .271 batting average make him a decent add, especially in shallower leagues. While he may not be a power hitter, his position and batting average are hard to ignore.
Streaming Pitchers
Martín Pérez (ATL) - SP (Yahoo - 31%)
Despite potential regression, Pérez's performance and the Braves' strong run support make him a streaming option against Bailey Ober and the Twins.
Tyler Mahle (ATL) - SP (Yahoo - 28%)
Mahle's recent velocity dip is concerning, but his overall success and pitch quality metrics make him a streaming option to consider.
Deep League Players to Watch
Esteury Ruiz (MIA) - OF (Yahoo - 3%)
Ruiz's speed and recent playing time make him a valuable addition in 15-team daily lineup leagues, despite his lack of hitting.
Moisés Ballesteros (LAA) - C (Yahoo - 4%)
Ballesteros' young age and .616 OPS make him a promising deep league option, despite his current performance.
