Kris Medlen (KC, SP) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 12+ Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 22% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: As I predicted, Medlen has found his way back into the rotation after replacing Jeremy Guthrie for Kansas City. Medlen has a 2.51 ERA in seven relief appearances this year, but it needs to be noted that all of those runs were in his first appearance (3.1 IP, 4 ER). Since then it's been 11.0 scoreless innings with a 10/5 K/BB ratio.  In case you need a refresher, Medlen was a top 25 SP in fantasy from 2012 to 2013, including being arguably the best SP in baseball for the 2012 stretch run. Two Tommy John surgeries altered his career, but he's finally found his way back into a starting role.

The Royals are likely to be very cautious with Medlen, considering his health record and the Royals 13 game lead in the AL Central. But pitchers of Medlen's caliber and track record aren't usually lying around the waiver wire. He's in line for a two-start week (vs BAL, @ TB). The Orioles matchup is bothersome, and the Royals likely won't let him go past 80-90 pitches. Tampa has been a bottom five team vs RHP. This represents an excellent streaming opportunity. Expect that ownership level to rise in the coming week.