Addison Russell (SS, CHC) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in All Leagues

OWNED IN: 20% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: Though he has not received the attention that Kris Bryant receives in the Cubs system, Addison Russell has quietly hit at every level. He has consistently been counted on at every level to maintain a high batting average and provide a lot of offensive contribution for a shortstop. And while he will have to hit in order to keep his spot on a young, competitive Cubs roster, the potential is there for him to be a mainstay in that lineup.

Addison Russell sits just behind Starlin Castro in the shortstop depth chart, but has passed Javier Baez in the second base depth chart for the Cubs. He will likely be up at the Major League roster for the remainder of the season if he proves that he is ready to hit in the majors like he did in the minors. Russell should be owned in every fantasy league because of the offensive upside that he offers for a position that typically is limited in offensive output. Russell currently qualifies as a shortstop and has the potential to offer 15 home runs with a .270 batting average and decent RBI totals in a lineup full of offensive firepower. He is a must own in all leagues.