Billy Butler (1B / DH, KC) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in Deep Leagues

ANALYSIS: Billy Butler was a mid-round pick for many fantasy managers this season, and for good reason after his stat line last year. He was a five-category player in 2013 (fifth category being walks - not steals) that gave owners some power (15 HR) to go along with his .289 AVG, and nearly 80 BB/RBI. The beginning of this season left owners with something to be desired, but he's come on strong as of late with six multi-hit games in his last eight. He has also raised his average from .249 on June 8 to .272 after Thursday's game. His past six seasons of production, along with his improving metrics the past month, only forecast further improvement. Butler remains owned in most leagues as he sits at 65% in Yahoo, but he may have been dropped in your league by an impatient or frustrated owner. It seems like everyone is starting to find their groove on the Royals, so Butler can be a good contributor for your team. Unfortunately however, there are a number of 1B-eligible players that are probably available in standard leagues that can match, if not beat, his production. If he's the best option on your waiver wire, Butler is worth holding onto or grabbing in deep leagues.