Ryan Zimmerman (1B, WAS) – Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 14+ Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 16% of Yahoo! Leagues  

ANALYSIS: Zimmerman has mashed three home runs in 34 at-bats this season and has also added three doubles to his ledger. That type of production is reminiscent of his 2012 and 2013 seasons. With a return to health and a new approach at the plate, there is a lot of buzz and discussion surrounding whether or not this start is sustainable. His metrics in this regard are not promising. His fly ball rate is at its lowest rate since his rookie season in 2005, and his IFFB% is at a concerning 14.3%. That leaves it as little surprise that he is relying on a 42.9% HR/FB rate and a .476 BABIP for his early season surge in production.

Although those numbers are based on a small sample size, given the health risks and the current state of his batted-ball profile, Zimmerman shouldn’t be a part of fantasy owners’ long-term plans. That doesn't mean he can't be of use, however. Using him as a streaming option while his bat remains hot is a more realistic option and is his ideal use in deeper leagues of 14 or more teams.