UPDATE: The fantasy baseball trade deadline is rapidly approaching, set for Friday, August 15, at noon ET. If you haven’t solidified your roster yet, now is the time to make strategic moves. As teams gear up for the final stretch of the season, we highlight six players who could dramatically improve your lineup.
First up is Bryce Harper, 1B for the Philadelphia Phillies. With a history of clutch performances, Harper is a prime target. He boasts a career .274 average in September and a .280 average with 17 home runs in 53 postseason games. Since the All-Star break, he has hit .256 with eight home runs in just 23 games. The Phillies are in a strong position in the National League East and have a favorable schedule ahead, including 13 games against the Miami Marlins and Washington Nationals, two teams with struggling pitching staffs.
Next on the list is Brandon Woodruff, SP for the Milwaukee Brewers. Available in 20.0% of ESPN leagues, Woodruff has scored the third-most fantasy points among pitchers since his return from shoulder surgery. His four-seam fastball is showing impressive movement, and he has a stellar 4.7% walk rate. As a free agent at the end of the season, Woodruff aims to help the Brewers in their playoff push.
Looking at the San Diego Padres, Jackson Merrill, OF, has seen his availability drop to 13.4% in ESPN leagues. Despite a rocky start marred by injuries, Merrill has turned it around since the All-Star break, lowering his chase rate and increasing his hard-hit percentage. He is poised for a late-season surge reminiscent of his strong finish last year.
Also to watch is George Kirby, SP for the Seattle Mariners, who is available in 14.3% of leagues. Kirby’s recent performance includes a 2.32 ERA over his last nine starts and a remarkable strikeout rate. With the Mariners in playoff contention, he has the potential to become a top-10 fantasy starter as the season winds down.
Don’t overlook Pete Alonso of the New York Mets. Despite a rough July, Alonso is on pace for 38 home runs. His strong contact quality suggests he’s a valuable trade target for teams looking to bolster their lineups. Furthermore, with 13 games against weak pitching staffs ahead, his potential for a breakout remains high.
Finally, consider Cade Smith, RP for the Cleveland Guardians, with a staggering 74.3% availability. Smith has emerged as a top reliever this season, ranking high in ERA and strikeout rate. Even if Emmanuel Clase returns, Smith’s performance could solidify his role as a valuable closer.
With the trade deadline just around the corner, these players represent key opportunities for fantasy owners looking to enhance their teams. Make your moves swiftly, as the clock is ticking!
