Brewers Ace Returns: Key Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Insights

Brandon Woodruff’s long-awaited return to the mound has brought a jolt of excitement for baseball fans and fantasy players. A bunch of other MLB talents are making waves too. From sneaky fantasy pickups to emerging stars finally getting noticed, this blog jumps into the latest storylines shaking up both the diamond and your fantasy league.

Let’s break down the key performances and fantasy insights you might want to keep an eye on.

Brandon Woodruff’s Triumphant Return to the Brewers

Brandon Woodruff came back with a vengeance for the Milwaukee Brewers. He pieced together a sharp six-inning outing after his October 2023 surgery.

Even though he was on a pitch limit, he tossed just 70 pitches and racked up 24 fantasy points. That’s the most he’s put up since September 2023.

How Woodruff Remains Valuable Amid Decreased Fastball Velocity

Woodruff’s fastball averaged 93.3 mph—his slowest in seven years. Still, hitters couldn’t touch him; he posted a high whiff rate and struck out eight.

That says a lot about his command and the rest of his arsenal. As his pitch count grows, his fantasy value should only climb. If you’re hunting for an elite arm, Woodruff’s recent outing is a pretty loud green light.

Jurickson Profar: A Braves Batsman Emerging After Suspension

Under-appreciated no more. Jurickson Profar of the Atlanta Braves has quietly started to make noise after his suspension. He’s batting .286 with two homers in his first five games, giving the lineup a steady boost.

Why Profar Is a Fantasy Hidden Gem

Batting near the top of Atlanta’s order, Profar’s set up to pile on runs—especially with the Braves’ offense behind him. For fantasy managers needing average and runs, Profar’s still widely available and deserves a look.

Astros’ Cam Smith: Power Meets Consistency

Over the last month, Cam Smith has turned into the Houston Astros’ newest threat at the plate. He’s hit .349 with four home runs and 21 RBI in his last 26 games.

Smith’s aggressive approach is paying off, and he’s become a steady force in the middle of Houston’s order. If he’s still floating around your league, you might want to grab him.

Ronny Henriquez: Miami’s Dominant Closer

If it’s late in the game, watch out. Ronny Henriquez is carving out the closer role for the Miami Marlins. He’s flashing electric stuff and nearly spotless numbers.

In his last eight appearances, Henriquez boasts a 1.13 ERA, four saves, and a wild 50% strikeout rate. He’s making life tough for hitters and fantasy opponents alike.

Fantasy Value of a Lights-Out Closer

If your team needs saves and strikeouts, Henriquez is a legit difference-maker. If he’s available, don’t overthink it—go get him.

Ceddanne Rafaela: A Dual-Threat for the Red Sox

For the Boston Red Sox, Ceddanne Rafaela is doing a bit of everything. In his last 15 games, Rafaela’s batting .333 with five homers, 12 RBI, and a whopping 13 stolen bases.

He’s become a daily contributor and seems to have earned the trust of the coaching staff. Fantasy managers needing speed and balanced stats should have him on the radar.

Other Noteworthy Players to Watch

• Brady Singer (Reds): Two home starts are coming up for Singer. He’s looked sharper at home this season and could be a sneaky streaming option.
• Cameron Schlittler (Yankees): Schlittler just joined the rotation. Over his last eight minor league starts, he’s put up a solid 2.77 ERA, so there’s some upside here.
• Joe Boyle (Rays): Boyle’s control has gotten better lately. That’s led to more chances in the majors, making him worth a shot in deeper leagues.
• Trevor Rogers (Orioles): Rogers has a 0.90 ERA over his last three starts. His fastball is coming in hotter, and honestly, he’s starting to look like a mixed-league option again.

 
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