Top Waiver Wire Picks: Who to Add for Fantasy Baseball Success

NEW YORK, N.Y. — As the 2025 MLB season unfolds, fantasy baseball managers are looking for strategic additions to their rosters. This week’s waiver wire highlights two standout players: Tyler Fitzgerald of the San Francisco Giants and Chandler Simpson of the Tampa Bay Rays. Both players present enticing opportunities for those seeking to enhance their rosters as the season progresses.

Tylor Fitzgerald, eligible at 2B, SS, and OF, is currently rostered in 44% of Yahoo leagues and 11.1% in ESPN leagues. With a .310 batting average early in the season, Fitzgerald has demonstrated consistent hitting capabilities. Despite concerns over his lower expected batting average at .226, his speed—an essential fantasy tool—has kept him afloat. Fitzgerald stole two bases already this year and added two home runs, replicating his power output from last season.

“Fitzgerald figures to be a valuable addition with his ability to produce in multiple categories,” said a fantasy analyst. “His potential for high batting averages combined with speed can make a difference on a roster.”

Chandler Simpson of the Tampa Bay Rays, meanwhile, is another player to keep an eye on. Simpson debuted on Saturday and occupies the leadoff spot in a lineup that has been impacted by injuries. He’s rostered in only 24% of Yahoo leagues and 11.5% of ESPN leagues but displayed impressive minor league numbers, hitting .355 last season. Given his swift base-running ability, which resulted in 104 steals across 110 minor league games last year, fantasy owners could see immediate benefits.

“The question is how much he can contribute offensively at the MLB level,” said a team scout. “If he can consistently get on base, he could lead the league in steals.”

Among the most-added players this past weekend on both Yahoo and ESPN platforms were pitchers like T.J. Walker and Matthew Liberatore. Walker faced a promising matchup against the Miami Marlins but was capped at four innings, noting one earned run and two strikeouts. Liberatore, on the other hand, delivered a solid start against the Mets despite taking a loss. Meanwhile, catcher Gabriel Moreno is on the rise thanks to his .419 batting average and six home runs early in the season. Analysts advise riding his hot streak while acknowledging the small sample size.

Ryan Clark, another fantasy analyst, emphasized the importance of analyzing player performance during significant matchups. “Teams face the challenge of maintaining momentum as we progress into the season,” Clark stated. “This is especially true for pitchers, where success can vary against different lineups.”

As for remaining options on the waiver wire, players like Sal Frelick of the Milwaukee Brewers and Hays of the Cincinnati Reds demonstrate promising attributes, particularly in batting average and power potential. Frelick is hitting .319 and has stolen five bases, while Hays offers significant home run upside with two to start the season.

“Frelick and Hays may not provide elite stats, but they can make an impact on a mid-tier fantasy team looking for depth,” advised a fantasy sports expert.

Overall, the waiver wire remains a critical component for fantasy baseball success. As such, managers should keep a keen eye on emerging players and favorable matchups in the weeks ahead to maximize their roster potential.