Jose Pirela (2B/OF, SD) - Week 7 Waiver Wire Pickups

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OWNED IN: 12% of leagues

ANALYSIS: San Diego Padres journeyman Jose Pirela came into 2018 as a popular sleeper, but has thus far disappointed. After punching 10 home runs on a .202 ISO in just 344 plate appearances, Pirela has struggled to match those numbers this season. He was a surprise, effective middle infield/outfield option for fantasy owners down the stretch run, and draftees hoped the changes that spurred the improvements would continue into this season.

Thus far, Pirela has provided none of the pop owners enjoyed a year ago, and his counting stats have led something to be desired. The 28-year-old has a line of .270/.328/.350, with the slugging in particular dropping precipitously from .490 in 2017. However, over the last couple of weeks, Pirela has shown signs of life, hitting .370/.414/.444 over 29 plate appearances. The downside is that his BABIP over that stretch sits at a meaty .500 and his ISO at a miniscule .074, signaling coming regression. That said, Pirela does bring solid on-base skills and has a history of going on hot streaks. If you need some help with average or are in a dire injury situation, consider Pirela a good fill-in option with some upside. If he fulfills that upside, he may make a decent trade chip to acquire some better talent.