MLB Fantasy Waiver Wire Pitcher Pickups Week 16

Week 15 is coming to a close, and with it comes new pitchers to be on the lookout for. Most of the week was comprised of the All-Star Break and all that brought, but there are still a few pitchers to look out for. We’ll revisit a few pitchers from last waiver wire, and suggest a couple of new ones to be on the lookout for.

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Revisiting

Jordan Yamamoto – 50.6% Rostered
Since making his MLB debut on June 12th for the Marlins, Yamamoto has caught some buzz. However, he’s still just under the radar enough for folks in smaller leagues to have a shot at picking him up. In his last go against the Braves on July 5th, he went 6.0 innings giving up just 2 hits and no runs. He fanned 7 in those six innings. He’s achieved 7 Ks in two of his 5 starts on the year, with that being his highest. He hasn’t made a start since the All-Star Break yet.

Brendan McKay – 42.2% Rostered
McKay made his MLB pitching debut on June 29th for the Rays on June 29th against the Rays. Since being called up from Triple-A, his fantasy ownership numbers have skyrocketed up to 42.2%. On July 5th, it was reported that he’ll be optioned back down to Triple-A, but there’s no denying that he’ll be back up this season at some point after the All-Star Break. He went 6.0 innings in his debut against the Rangers giving up 1 hit and 0 runs. His last start against the Yankees on July 5th resulted in a loss. He went 5.0 innings giving up 3 earned runs and 6 hits. McKay also hasn’t had a start since the All-Star break.

Pitchers To Pick Up

Brad Peacock – 40.3% Rostered
Following a stint on the 10-day IL, Peacock is expected to make a start against the Angels on Monday. He’s one of those special pitchers that starts games, but is listed as both a RP and SP, so he can fill out a reliever spot nicely. Before the shoulder injury, he was 6-6 on the year with 89 Ks with a WHIP of 1.15 and an ERA of 4.13. Not elite, but having him in a relief spot is highly effective.

Michael Pineda – 18.2% Rostered
In the last week, Pineda’s ownership has gone up 4.5% – and for good reason. In 92.2 innings pitched on the year, Pineda has fanned 84 while giving up just 16 walks. His ERA is a bit high at 4.56, but he’s finished three of his last four starts with an ERA of 1.50 on the day. His WHIP has been 1.00 or lower in four of his last five starts. Against the Rangers on 7/6, Pineda went 6.0 innings giving up 5 hits and just 1 earned run with 9 Ks.

Check out our 2019 MLB closer depth chart for a look at each team.