Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Pickups: Toglia, Kerkering, and Hamilton Lead the Way
Michael Toglia (1B, Rockies)
Rostered in just 22% of Yahoo leagues, Michael Toglia is making a strong case for immediate pickup, thanks to his recent hot streak. In his last four games, the rookie has gone 6-for-17 with three homers and six RBI, already moving up in the Rockies’ lineup, batting fourth and fifth in the last two games.
“Of course, a good series against the Nationals pitching staff doesn’t mean a lot,” said [original author]. “Still, Toglia is undoubtedly a flawed hitter. He’s striking out 38 percent of the time this season, raising his career mark to 34 percent…”
It’s not his approach as much as it’s the holes in his swing, and it seems unlikely that he’ll see dramatic improvement in that regard. Fortunately, Toglia tends to crush the ball when he connects.
Toglia’s 15.5% barrel rate the last two years is 10th in the majors, right behind stars like Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso. Plus, he’s a surprising adept basestealer with a 92.3% success rate since 2024.
The Rockies’ offense seems to be turning a corner, which could boost Toglia’s fantasy value. He’ll likely be a liability in batting average but offers plenty of power and RBI potential, especially if he continues to hit fourth or fifth regularly.
Orion Kerkering (RP, Phillies)
With Jordan Romano struggling, Orion Kerkering has stepped up as the Phillies’ new ninth-inning option. Rostered in just 20% of Yahoo leagues, Kerkering has earned two saves and one hold in his last three appearances, stretching his scoreless streak to 18 games.
Kerkering’s season ERA has dropped from 5.14 to 2.37 during this stretch, but there are still reasons for caution. His strikeout rate has dipped from 29% last year to 21% this season, and his once-strong groundball rate has declined.
However, Kerkering’s 31.1% CSW (called strikes and whiffs to total pitches) is practically the same as last year and above the league average. If he can find his strikeout form, he could solidify his role in the Phillies’ bullpen. For now, he’s a speculative add with potential save opportunities.
David Hamilton (2B/SS, Red Sox)
Rostered in a mere 1% of Yahoo leagues, speedster David Hamilton has emerged as a must-add in mixed leagues, at least for now. With Kristian Campbell demoted to Triple-A, Hamilton has started each of the Red Sox’s last three games at second base.
“Unfortunately, he went hitless in those games, leaving him at .172/.206/.269 with two homers and 12 steals in 99 plate appearances this season,” said [original author].
Normally, Hamilton’s lack of pop and recent struggles would make him an easy pass. But with his elite basestealing abilities (career 84.5% success rate) and potential everyday role, he’s worth an add in need-of-steals leagues. Keep an eye on his progress, as Alex Bregman’s return could limit his playing time.
Waiver Wire Quick Hits
- Calvin Faucher (RP, Marlins, 17% rostered) has settled in as Miami’s top ninth-inning option.
- With nine homers in his last 18 games, Iан Ideл (OF, Angels, 27% rostered) is again making noise in mixed leagues.
- Chase Delauter (OF, Guardians) is heating up at Triple-A, putting himself in line for a potential call-up soon.
