Robinson Chirinos (C, TEX) – Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in Two-Catcher Leagues

OWNED IN: 14% of Yahoo! Leagues  

ANALYSIS: Robinson Chirinos had outplayed Jonathan Lucroy for much of the season, but was still finding himself with limited playing time while Lucroy remained in a Rangers uniform. However, after Lucroy was dealt to the Rockies in late July, Chirinos has become the Rangers primary catcher. He has done quite well in that role, as over the past 30 days, he has been the fourth best fantasy catcher according to the ESPN Player Rater.

Chirinos shows no signs of slowing down in his production, either, as he has recorded a hit in nine of his past ten games and has scored eight runs in that span. Unfortunately, he hits nearly exclusively eighth or ninth in the Rangers’ lineup, which limits his ability to drive in runs. This is illustrated by his short-term and season-long stats, as he has just 35 RBI despite 16 home runs on the season and has four RBI over his past ten games despite hitting two home runs in that span.

Overall, Chirinos is a strong source of power, has surprising run scoring potential, and also carries a decent average for the catcher position. With such low ownership, he is widely available and is a worthy waiver wire consideration for those in need of help at the catcher position now that he has every day playing time.