Ruben Tejada (SS, NYM) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Continue Scouting

ANALYSIS: Generally speaking, players who lack power, the ability to consistently get on base and everyday at-bats are not enticing fantasy options. Ruben Tejada is no exception. Especially when you consider that, despite once being praised for his base-running abilities, he has never swiped more than five bags in a single season in the big leagues. Tejada currently has two HR in 158 AB, which is significantly better than the two balls off his bat that managed to clear the fence in his first 1,116 AB, but don't take tat as a sign of things to come. At only 24 years old, he could improve as an overall player, but even then, he would likely bring next to nothing to the table from a fantasy standpoint except in deep NL-only leagues. With a robust 26% line drive rate and a much improved batting eye, he should certainly see his BA rise soon.  He also doesn't possess the level of defensive excellence that can allow a shortstop to maintain his job despite struggles at the plate. Tejada is owned in only 1% of Yahoo! leagues for a reason, so don't bother looking to add him, even as a backup middle infielder. There are sure to be plenty of superior alternatives.