Top NL Central Left-Handed Pitchers Shine in Week 9

As we dive into Week 9 of the 2025 fantasy baseball season, a clear theme emerges: left-handed starting pitchers from the NL Central are dominating the waiver wire. These pitchers are not just speculative adds; they are performing at a high level and are among the most-added players in ESPN standard leagues.

Andrew Abbott, SP, Cincinnati Reds

Andrew Abbott continues to impress, tossing five shutout innings against the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday. With seven starts this season, Abbott has allowed more than one earned run in only one outing. Despite concerns about his durability and inconsistent strikeout rates, Abbott is a solid recommendation, even with upcoming games against the division-leading Chicago Cubs.

Matthew Boyd, SP, Chicago Cubs

Matthew Boyd secured his fourth win in six decisions by defeating the Chicago White Sox on Saturday. Boyd has been reliable, pitching six innings in six of his nine starts. With a 2.98 ERA and strong run support, Boyd is on track to win double-digit games for the first time in his career. His next matchups against the Reds and Rockies make him a valuable addition.

Matthew Liberatore, RP/SP, St. Louis Cardinals

Matthew Liberatore has been stellar, lowering his ERA to 2.92 after six innings of one-run ball against the Kansas City Royals. Liberatore has allowed two or fewer earned runs in his past seven starts, with only one home run allowed in that span. With a set role in the rotation, Liberatore is delivering career-best strikeout and ground ball rates, making him a legitimate fantasy option.

Clayton Kershaw, SP, Los Angeles Dodgers

Clayton Kershaw's 2025 debut did not go as planned, as he allowed five runs over four innings against the Los Angeles Angels. Returning from offseason surgeries, Kershaw is expected to bounce back and excel once fully healthy. While he may not be active this week against the New York Mets, Kershaw remains a long-term asset.

Closer to Add

Jordan Romano, RP, Philadelphia Phillies

With Jose Alvarado suspended, Jordan Romano stepped up, striking out the heart of the Pittsburgh Pirates' order on just 11 pitches. Romano has been dominant in his last eight innings, allowing no runs and striking out 11. He is pitching like the top-five closer he once was, making him a must-add in fantasy leagues.

Rotisserie-Style Player to Add

Andy Pages, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers

Andy Pages is an aggressive hitter with nine home runs and five stolen bases this season. While his walk rate is low, Pages has moved up in the lineup due to Teoscar Hernandez's injury. His recent power surge makes him a valuable roto option.

Two-Start Value Pickup

Ben Brown, SP/RP, Chicago Cubs

Ben Brown has shown improvement, with 15 strikeouts against two walks in his last two outings. With matchups against the Miami Marlins and Cincinnati Reds, Brown has significant strikeout upside, making him a worthwhile add.

Deeper-League Pickups

Logan Henderson, SP, Milwaukee Brewers

Logan Henderson has been impressive in his limited MLB action, with 16 strikeouts against two walks over 11 innings. With a start against the Baltimore Orioles, Henderson is a speculative add with potential.

Chris Paddack, SP, Minnesota Twins

Chris Paddack has been improving, earning his first two wins in his last two outings. With upcoming games against the Guardians, Rays, and Mariners, Paddack is a deep-league option worth considering.

As the fantasy baseball season progresses, these players offer valuable opportunities to strengthen your roster. Keep an eye on their performances and make the necessary adjustments to stay competitive.