Andrew Benintendi (OF, BOS) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 10-12+ team leagues

OWNED IN: 20% of Fleaflicker leagues

ANALYSIS: Since being drafted by the Red Sox out of Arkansas just last year, Andrew Benintendi has been on a lightning-quick tear through the Boston farm system. In 2015 he had a .313/.416/.556 slash line, 11 HR, 10 SB, a walk percentage of 14.6%, and an XBH percentage of 9.2% in just 198 total AB for Class A Short Season Lowell and Class A Greenville.

Over his 372 AB in 2016, for Salem and Portland, Benintendi produced a .910 OPS, nine HR, 16 SB, a 1:1 strikeout to walk ratio, and an XBH percentage of 12.4%. Benintendi has the superstar pedigree, as he hit 20 HR, stole 24 bases, and had a 1.205 OPS for Arkansas in 2015.

The Red Sox announced that they are giving him the call-up, and will give him a chance in a crowded Boston outfield that has lacked a solid third option after Mookie Betts and Jackie Bradley Jr. If Benintendi can stick around and find consistent playing time, he may have significant fantasy value down the home stretch. He has never struggled with adjustments at any point in his career at any level, and he has the ability to provide production with contact, power, and speed based on his advanced plate discipline.

If he is still available in your league, he is worth a waiver wire add in just about any format. Don't go crazy dropping your studs for him, but be aggressive with your team and trying to squeeze him in. Don't forget - he will be batting in the best offensive lineup in baseball, and has the pedigree and upside to be a fantasy difference maker.