So we’re almost at the All-Star break, and your fantasy team might be in need of some refreshments! It’s that time of the year when your star player could re-aggravate that nagging knee or hamstring injury, or you shockingly find out that your ace is having season ending shoulder surgery. If so, then this week’s waiver article is just for you.
Clayton Richard, SP, San Diego Padres – Padres starting pitcher Clayton Richard is a great free agent acquisition for any fantasy team needing to add W’s to the win column. Richard has pitched well as of late, winning 5 out of his last 6 decisions. Though the 2012 Padres appear to be an offensive nightmare, the rising left hander hasn’t needed much run support lately. He has posted a 2.32 ERA over his last 5 starts, while having great command of all of his pitches. During this time, he has walked just 7 batters, while striking out 24 in 42 innings pitched.
Holding a 6-8 record this season, Richard’s shrinking 3.64 ERA and recent shut out performance have made him one of the few promising young pitchers in the Padres below average rotation. With the possibility of winning 8 to 10 games after the All-Star break, look for Clayton Richard’s fantasy value to begin to rise.
Salvador Perez, C, Kansas City Royals – The Kansas City Royals are certainly pleased with how their new 22 year old catcher has looked in his brief time spent in the major leagues. Salvador Perez has hit safely in each of his 11 games this season, immediately making an impressive impact with his new team. Batting a .425 (17 for 40) with 3 homers and 7 RBI in just a few weeks, you could say he appears to be able to help anyone’s roster on any given day.
Surely numbers will begin to taper off, but it’s obviously clear that this kid has the kind of big league talent that is required to be great. With his huge frame (6’3’ 230 lbs.) experts are expecting Perez to hit at least 10 homeruns after the All-Star break, while easily maintaining a .300 average. The catcher position can be one of the hardest to fill for a fantasy owner. While Perez is playing like one of the elite catchers in all of baseball, why not give him a shot?
Justin Ruggiano, LF/CF, Miami Marlins – Batting an unreal .400 average on the season, Justin Ruggiano has forced his way into a regular role playing outfield with the Miami Marlins. Having only 70 at-bats in 2012, the red-hot left fielder is looking to remain in the lineup when injured Emilio Bonifacio returns later this month. His 5 homeruns have been a much needed commodity, while this newly structured Miami team has been rapidly dropping in the National League East power rankings. Look for Ruggiano to continue to produce, as manager Ozzie Guillen appears to have complete trust in him.
