Under-Rostered Players for Points Leagues: Week 17
The second half of the season is upon us, and points leagues are heating up as teams make crucial moves before the trade deadline. While some players are already well-rostered, there are several under-the-radar gems waiting to be discovered. Here's a breakdown of some players who could be game-changers for your points league squad.
Ryan Jeffers, C, MIN
With a 31.3% roster rate on ESPN, Jeffers is a hidden gem at catcher. Despite limited plate appearances (161), he ranks 18th among catchers, showcasing his ability to produce in a small sample size. His everyday playing time and the absence of a strong backup (Victor Caratini) make Jeffers a top-12 option for the rest of the season. With his solid performance and high playing time, Jeffers is a must-have for any points league manager.
Caleb Durbin, 3B, BOS
The Boston Red Sox have been on fire, and Caleb Durbin is a key reason why. Since June 1st, he's batting .310 with eight home runs and six stolen bases. His strong plate discipline and low strikeout rate (16 in 144 PA) make him a valuable asset in points leagues, where power is often overlooked. With a .371 OBP during that stretch, Durbin is a massive upgrade and should be a top-tier option once he gains second base eligibility.
Curtis Mead, 1B/2B/3B, WSH
Curtis Mead is on a tear, batting .329 with six home runs and 13 RBI in his last 20 games. His improved contact metrics, strikeout rate, and walk rate, coupled with a surge in power (HR/FB rate), make him a versatile and valuable addition to any points league squad. With his speed and power, Mead is a steal and can provide points in multiple categories.
Tristan Peters, OF, CWS
An American League All-Star with only 5% roster rate on ESPN? It's a no-brainer! Tristan Peters has earned his spot with six home runs and five stolen bases. His 17.2% K rate and 84.9% Zone Contact rate are impressive, and his .350 BABIP (.302 overall) suggests he's due for some positive regression. While he may not be a perfect fit for all points leagues, his versatility and potential for points make him a must-have.
Troy Melton, SP/RP, DET
Melton is a late bloomer, but his recent performance is undeniable. With five straight appearances allowing one or fewer earned runs and 36 strikeouts in 29.1 innings, he's a rising star. His velocity bump and ability to miss bats make him a valuable addition to any points league bullpen. With a high roster rate (58.6%), he's still available, and his potential for points makes him a steal.
Jacob Webb, RP, CHC
Jacob Webb is a solid option for points leagues, with a 4.0% roster rate on ESPN. He leads the Cubs bullpen in saves and has kept hitters off-balance with his fastball and changeup. With a solid performance and high availability, Webb is a reliable option for points leagues, especially with his ability to induce weak contact.
Remember, points leagues have unique scoring settings, so adjust your strategy accordingly. These under-rostered players offer a mix of power, speed, and versatility, making them valuable additions to your squad. Don't let them slip through the cracks!
