Deep in the Hole- Fantasy Baseball Week 14

This is my weekly fantasy baseball column where I discuss the rising and falling stocks of certain players. Hopefully this information can help with your lineup decisions, and maybe give you some ideas when looking for a boost from the waiver wire. But, of course, do not sit your studs just for these guys, or drop a guy just because he appears on the list. These are just suggestions, albeit supported ones.

Heating Up

Andrelton Simmons, Atlanta Braves (SS) – The Atlanta offense has struggled for most of the season, but has heated up during their current nine-game win streak. The streak coincides with the move of Andrelton Simmons to the two-hole in the lineup, as he has been the catalyst of late. Simmons was stuck hitting eighth for most of the year, depressing his fantasy value. Now at the top of the order, Simmons has had four straight multi-hit games, with seven RBIs over that span. If Atlanta can continue to click offensively, look for Simmons to put up top-10 shortstop numbers.

Wilson Ramos, Washington Nationals (C) – You have to wonder what Ramos could do if he could just stay healthy. He has shown great potential with Washington, but trips to the DL have capped his value, including two stints this season. Back with the big club after missing time with a hamstring injury, Ramos has a hit in all eight games since his return. Ramos is hitting a solid .280, and could easily hit 15 or more home runs if he stays healthy the rest of the year. If someone in your league gave up on Ramos, go grab him.

Cooling Off

Eric Hosmer, Kansas City Royals (1B) – Hosmer just can’t seem to have that breakout year. He has been solid, if unspectacular, for Kansas City, but hasn’t lived up to expectations. The former third overall pick is hitting .254 this year, but the real issue is the lack of power. Hosmer has a meager four homers, and a .345 slugging percentage. At a position as loaded as first base, those numbers just don’t get it done. Hosmer could certainly have a big second half, and he did just have a four-hit game (all singles), but bench him for now.

Ryan Howard, Philadelphia Phillies (1B) – Unlike Hosmer, Howard has hit for power, with 14 home runs and 51 RBIs. The problem for Howard is making consistent contact. He has struck out 106 times in 325 at-bats, which is tied for the most in all of baseball. The career .268 hitter is only batting .231, and has only 3 hits in his last 36 at-bats. Howard’s contact rate is unlikely to improve, so he can be dropped if you can find a decent replacement. Check the waiver wire for guys like Lucas Duda or James Loney.

Minor League Chatter

After four subpar starts, Miami has optioned Andrew Heaney to Triple-A New Orleans. He may be back up as soon as Wednesday, as the Marlins will need a starter for their game against Arizona.

Oscar Taveras was recalled by St. Louis this week, and you would think he is there to play, not ride the bench. Matt Adams and Allen Craig may lose playing time.

Nugget of the Week- Mike Olt is hitting .147 in 170 at-bats for the Cubs. Of his 25 hits, he has 11 home runs and 10 singles.