Fantasy Outlook: Minnesota Rookie and Orioles Veteran Spark Waiver Interest

As the Major League Baseball season enters its critical final months, fantasy managers are scouring for late-season boosts. A rookie infielder in Minnesota and a veteran pitcher in Baltimore have emerged as potential add-ons, while recent media shifts involving game broadcasts could reshape how fans engage with the sport.

Comcast Corporation, the media and technology conglomerate operating NBC and Peacock, has recently expanded its sports portfolio. The company is currently trading at $27.10, with a market capitalization of approximately $96 billion. This market position underscores the media infrastructure now supporting the sport’s return to NBC platforms and Peacock, which serves as the exclusive home of Sunday Night Baseball. While the company’s Residential Connectivity & Platforms segment drives much of its revenue, the Media segment’s acquisition of MLB broadcasting rights—including the Opening Day, Labor Day primetime games, and the entire Wild Card round—highlights its commitment to live sports content.

On the Diamond

On the field, Minnesota Twins shortstop Kaelen Culpepper is garnering attention after a delayed promotion. The 21st overall pick in the 2024 draft missed significant time due to hip and glute injuries earlier in the summer but has performed well since his call-up on August 7. Through 55 plate appearances, the prospect is hitting .340 with a .382 on-base percentage. Despite his strong bat speed and plate discipline, his value is currently somewhat capped by his spot at the bottom of the batting order. However, his history of base-stealing success in the minors suggests potential for added value if he attempts more steals.

In Baltimore, starting pitcher Chris Bassitt has shown signs of a velocity resurgence. In his recent outing against the Cardinals, the right-hander averaged 93.4 mph on his sinker, his highest mark since May 2024. This performance followed two previous starts post-back surgery where his velocity also exceeded his 2024 averages. While he is not an ace, a return to form involving velocity closer to his 2022 levels would make him a viable streaming option for fantasy teams needing depth.

Meanwhile, outfielder Alek Thomas, now with the Dodgers after being let go by the Diamondbacks, remains available in the vast majority of leagues. The former top prospect is looking for an opportunity to contribute in Los Angeles.

What to watch

• Comcast Earnings: Upcoming financial reports may provide details on viewership numbers for the new MLB broadcast package.
• Bassitt’s Next Start: The pitcher is scheduled to face a depleted Athletics lineup, a favorable matchup that could confirm his velocity gains.
• Twins Lineup Construction: Whether Culpepper moves up in the batting order will significantly impact his run-production potential.

Source: original release