Deep in the Hole- Fantasy Baseball Week 15

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

Stephen Vogt, Oakland Athletics (C, OF) – It’s not often third-string catchers are relevant in fantasy, but Vogt’s production can’t be ignored. Vogt is currently riding an 11-game hitting streak, and has multiple hits in five of his last six games. Oakland has plugged him in all over the place, as Vogt has started games at catcher, first base, and both corner outfield spots. Vogt typically sits against lefties, but that shouldn’t scare you away. Vogt hits near the top of a strong lineup, and is a good add if you’re thin at catcher.

Omar Infante, Kansas City Royals (2B) – Infante got off to a solid start to the season, but after a DL stint in May he wasn’t the same. Now it appears he’s found his stroke, batting .500 over his last seven games. Infante is not going to carry your team, but he can provide decent numbers at a weak position. He is a good bet to finish with double digit home runs and stolen bases, a combo that is tough to find on the waiver wire. Brandon Phillips owners should take note.

Cooling Off

Aaron Hill, Arizona Diamondbacks (2B) – Hill was drafted to be a top-10 second baseman, but is currently outside the top-15 scorers at the position. The lack of power is the most troubling for Hill, as he has not homered in a month. Add to that a .276 on-base percentage, and you have a player who is barely rosterable in shallow leagues. I think you hold on to Hill given his track record, but I can see dropping him.

Allen Craig, St. Louis Cardinals (1B, OF) – Craig had an awful start to the season, but hit .292 in May and seemed to be back to his old self. Craig followed that with a homerless June, and now Oscar Taveras is taking his playing time. Taveras is going to get significant at-bats, and if Craig continues to scuffle, it will be at his expense. Matt Adams has been rumored to be on the trading block, and his departure would allow Craig to play first every day. Otherwise, Craig should be benched, even dropped if you have other options.

Minor League Chatter

The Chicago Cubs have a stable of young hitting prospects, but it was said that Arismendy Alcantara was the most ready for the big leagues. Chicago called him up on Wednesday, and he had four knocks in his second game. He could potentially gain eligibility at three positions (shortstop, second base, outfield) in a few weeks.

Nugget of the Week- Aroldis Chapman has gone 40 straight relief appearances with a strikeout, the most since 1900.