MLB Waiver Wire Gems: Top Fantasy Baseball Pickups to Boost Your Roster in Week 2

Week 2 Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Targets

The early weeks of the MLB season are prime time for savvy fantasy managers to capitalize on breakout performances and emerging roles. Here are the top players you should target on the waiver wire to gain an edge in your fantasy league.

Must-Add Players for ESPN Standard Leagues

Kristian Campbell, 2B/SS/OF, Boston Red Sox (60.4% available)

• Why Add Him? A top prospect with elite scouting grades, Campbell brings a rare mix of contact, speed, and defensive versatility. After a strong spring training, he's already showing power with multiple 100+ mph exit velocity hits.
• Key Stats: 4 hard-hit balls in 16 plate appearances.

Heston Kjerstad, OF, Baltimore Orioles (97.8% available)

• Opportunity Knocks: With Colton Cowser injured, Kjerstad gets a chance to shine in the Orioles' lineup. The 2020 No. 2 draft pick has the pop and plate discipline to make an impact.
• Projected Role: Likely to bat in the middle of Baltimore's potent lineup against righties.

Spencer Torkelson, 1B, Detroit Tigers (83.8% available)

• Power Potential: After a monster spring (.340/.389/.680), Torkelson is proving he belongs in Detroit's lineup. With other Tigers injured, his playing time is secure.
• Stat to Watch: 4 of 5 batted balls at 95+ mph exit velocity.

Austin Wells, C, New York Yankees (40.7% available)

• Breakout Candidate: Wells homered twice in the opening series while hitting leadoff. In a Yankees lineup showing new power potential, Wells could be a difference-maker at catcher.
• Bonus: Catcher eligibility with premium lineup positioning.

Speed Play for Rotisserie Leagues

Victor Scott II, OF, St. Louis Cardinals (92.6% available)

• Speed Demon: Already has 3 stolen bases in the young season. Improved plate discipline could make him a steals machine.
• Sleeper Appeal: Showing better contact skills after struggling in 2024.

Pitchers to Target

Chris Paddack, Minnesota Twins (95.8% available)

• Rebound Alert: Showing his best velocity since 2021 with elite whiff rates in spring training. A two-start week makes him especially valuable.

Cade Povich, Baltimore Orioles (98.0% available)

• Strikeout Artist: The lefty impressed in spring training with a 25.9% K-rate. Now in the rotation, he could be a sneaky source of punchouts.

Deep League Special

Ben Rice, Yankees (96.2% available)

• Power Potential: Crushed 5 spring homers and already showing power in regular season. Yankee Stadium's short porch could boost his numbers.

Waiver Wire Strategy

• Act Fast: Early season breakouts often provide the best value
• Target Playing Time: Look for players who've secured regular roles
• Balance Short-Term Gains vs. Long-Term Potential

Pro Tip: In weekly transaction leagues, prioritize two-start pitchers like Paddack and Povich for maximum impact.