Melvin Upton Jr. (OF, TOR) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 14+ Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 43% of Fleaflicker Leagues

EXPERT ANALYSIS: The ballad of Melvin Upton Jr. may have a happy ending this season after all. Upton had a career revival with San Diego the first half, posting 16 HR and 20 SB. Since being traded to Toronto, he hasn't looked comfortable at the plate, hitting just .214/.252/.350 since moving up north. As a result, he has bounced all around the lineup in an attempt to find a comfort zone. Lately, Upton seems to be warming up, as he is hitting .292 in the last week with seven R. Unfortunately, his speed is all but gone, which puts a big damper on his value. Aside from a three-steal outburst a couple of weeks ago, Upton has only swiped a bag in one other game this entire month. He has only three HR in August as well, making him only worth adding in deeper leagues. Average alone won't recreate his early season value, but if his bat starts to come alive again, he could at least be in position to steal some more bases. The one advantage he has now in Toronto is a higher likelihood to score and drive in runs. This version of Upton may not be as valuable as the one from the first half, but he could still generate fantasy points down the stretch for a first-place team fighting to keep its playoff spot.