As is always the case in September, this week’s list of fantasy baseball adds is focused almost entirely on the next few days. Head-to-head managers can’t look past this week’s matchups, while those in roto formats should take things one series at a time as they attempt to climb in specific categories.
When the Angels traded Carlos Estévez at the deadline, it was assumed that Joyce would become the closer. Unfortunately, we had to wait a while to confirm his role, as the team didn’t provide many save chances in early August. But Joyce is clearly their ninth-inning man, having collected the team’s past three saves. With his ability to log eye-popping radar gun readings, Joyce could keep his new role for several years.
Heaney thrived during the toughest part of a two-start week when he struck out eight Yankees across five scoreless innings on Tuesday. The southpaw has allowed just one earned run across his past three starts, and although he doesn’t go deep into games, he still warrants plenty of attention for a favorable home matchup against the Angels (27th in runs scored) on Sunday.
Although Montas hasn’t been dominant with the Brewers, he has fared well enough (3.82 ERA, 1.27 WHIP) to enter the streamer discussion. Those who need a push as we head into the weekend should strongly consider adding Montas for his home start against the Rockies on Friday, as Colorado ranks 28th in runs scored on the road.
Those who need a two-start pitcher next week should consider stashing Springs now. The right-hander initially stumbled when returning from Tommy John surgery before logging a 2.22 ERA, a 1.19 WHIP and a 31:7 K:BB ratio across his past five starts. Admittedly, Springs has a challenging schedule when he faces the Phillies and Guardians next week. However, the slate may not be as tough as it appears, as the Phillies rank 12th in OPS since the All-Star break, while the Guardians place 25th.
Amaya was recommended in this space last week, as he has been outstanding in the second half (.812 OPS) after ditching his high leg kick and replacing it with a toe tap. But there is a second reason to consider Amaya right now, as the Cubs will visit Coors Field next week and take on baseball’s worst pitching staff. Amaya should be regarded as a top-10 catcher for the upcoming scoring period.
After all the early season…