Christian Villanueva (3B, SD) - Week 8 Waiver Wire Pickups

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ANALYSIS: San Diego Padres third baseman Christian Villanueva has returned to relevance with a loud performance last week where he hit three homers to go with three runs, six RBI, and a .412 AVG.

Villanueva's recent power output has moved him back into the cleanup spot, which should produce plenty of RBI opportunities. His season average stands at .250 after the slump; however, he does have a .377 wOBA and BABIP of only .269. He has improved his strikeout rate ever so slightly down to a more manageable 28.8%. Another positive is Villanueva continues to be a fly ball hitter (51.2%) so sustained homers seems to be inevitable when he does make contact. Therein lies part of his issue though. He has poor plate discipline and struggles against same-sided pitching. Villanueva swings too much, particularly at pitches outside the zone at a rate of 37.5% and only has a contact rate of 69.9%. Villanueva also has a batting average of .176 against right-handed pitchers.

Thus far, his approach and success at the plate is dictated by his streakiness. If he is successful making contact, as he has been the last week, then he has the potential to maintain his streak. Regardless of the duration, you must be honest with what type of player Villanueva is becoming. He will have his fair share of strikeouts. At the same time, he will also run into quite a few homers as well. If your roster can stomach that, then Villanueva is your guy.

One last note, people are attracted to homers. So, Villanueva should not just sit idly on your waiver wire. Assuming there is no restriction on waiver wire additions, claim him to take advantage of the hot streak and potentially use as a trade chip.