DJ LeMahieu (2B / 3B, COL) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in NL-Only / Deeper Leagues

ANALYSIS: DJ LeMahieu is a speedy middle infielder / corner infielder who plays for the Colorado Rockies. LeMahieu hasn't gotten all that much attention in fantasy leagues so far, and that's probably for good reason. He really hasn't been a plus producer so far this year. However for those of you in deeper leagues, where middle infield is thin and third base is even thinner, he may be worth a look. His 3 homers so far this year are a career high, over parts of four MLB seasons, which tells you all you need to know about his pop. However, playing his home games at Coors Field may allow him to benefit from one of the most hitter-friendly parks in the league, making him a recent addition to our sleepers list.

What LeMahieu does do well is swipe bags. Last year he had 18 stolen bases in 404 ABs, and every year in the minors he was always at least over double digits in steals. Another thing I like about LeMahieu is that he his walk rate of 7.7% this year is up from 3.3% last year, and he is not striking out a ton. In fantasy, I like players who are patient at the plate (a sign of longer-term ability to succeed), and players who are able to play multiple positions. At the very least he's worth a look as a bench piece for those of you in NL-Only formats, or deeper leagues, if not as your starter at second base or third base. He's only 14% owned in Yahoo leagues, so he should be readily available for your teams.