Tyler Chatwood SP/RP
Chatwood back in 2017, held opposing hitters to a .200 BA and a 1.23 WHIP when pitching outside of Coors. When he signed with the Cubs the following year however, his free passes spiraled out of control, almost averaging 1 per inning. In 2019 Chatwood moved to the bullpen where he did an adequate job averaging nearly a K per inning and lowered his walk rate back to his career norm, hovering around 1 every 2 innings. Returning to the starting rotation this season, he seems to have outgrown the control problems and has looked downright unhittable so far in 2 starts. His line after 2 games is: 12.2 IP, 2 W, 19 K, 0.71 ERA, 0.79 WHIP. He also K’d Christian Yelich 3 times. Add him now if he’s still available.
Kyle Freeland SP
Kyle freeland is back. I was hesitant to say so after his first start on the road, but after returning to Colorado and shutting down a hot San Diego team, he looks like his 2018 self. Two years ago he was a star for the Rockies and after the entire pitching staff took a turn for the worse last season, they seem to have rebounded for the shortened year. Freeland is worth an add in all leagues.
JaCoby Jones OF
A defensive standout the last couple of years for the lowly Tigers, Jones showed glimpses of offensive potential last season. Now in his 4th year, he has arguably been the best hitter in all of baseball and deserves a spot on all rosters in all leagues. Enjoy the hot streak while it lasts.
Edwin Rios 1B/3B
Rios averaged nearly a home run in every 12 AB’s last season in AAA and produced similar power numbers after his call up. If it wasn’t for the added DH this season, he would still be buried on the depth chart and likely be regulated to AAA duty once again. That no longer being an issue, Rios has been given the chance to start the last two games and didn’t disappoint. In 9 total AB’s, he’s already hit two home runs and drove in 4. The Dodgers are full of talent, but if Rios continues to hit like this, Dave Roberts won’t be able to keep him out of the lineup vs RHP. He’s worth a speculative add in leagues that allow daily lineup changes.
Donovan Solano 2B/3B
The 2019 Giants were desperate for bench depth, so mid-season they made the call for Soloano who surprisingly hit for a .330 BA over 81 games. Replacing Evan Longoria to start this season, Solano picked up right where he left off producing multi-hit games and leading the team in RBI. He’s done so well, that even after Longoria’s return the Giants have continued to bat Solano in the 3 hole. He currently owns an absurd, lead leading 13 RBI and is 13 for 29 at the plate. He qualifies at both 2B and SS and should be added in all leagues.
Monte Harrison OF
With so many players on Miami testing positive for COVID-19, Harrison will finally get his shot. Rumored to be called up for Tuesday’s game, Harrison offers tons of speed, to go along with some decent pop. He looked great in Spring/Summer camp and played like a 5 tool star last year in AAA. He strikes out a ton, but if nothing else, he should steal plenty of bags. He’s worth an add in roto leagues right now (August 2nd).
Hanser Alberto 2B/3B/SS
Hanser has been on a tear since the season started. Over the first 8 games he’s hit for a .429 BA, including 4 doubles, and 2 home runs. The 27 year old infielder rarely strikes out giving him a good chance to continue to hit well above .300. (He only has 3 so far this season). He qualifies at multiple positions and can even steal a few bases, furthering his value. Grab Hanser and slot him into your MI position immediately while he stays hot.