When searching the fantasy baseball waiver wire, relievers don’t always get the love that other position players get simply because most fantasy teams are already set in stone.
But that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few of you out there still combing the wire.
I thought it might be a good idea to quickly mention Javier Lopez, and the potential upcoming value he may add to your fantasy roster.
As many of you already know, Javier Lopez was traded to the San Francisco Giants via The Pittsburgh Pirates. And while Lopez isn’t exactly on anyone’s radar just yet, now may be the best time to get acquainted with him.
By The Numbers:
Lopez was having an average season at best in Pittsburgh, sporting a 2.77 ERA and a 2-2 record with a K/9 rate of 5.1.
But what is worthwhile is his ability to shut down left handed batters, as he has held them to a .204/.323/.352 batting line; literally shutting them down with every opportunity.
Career wise, Lopez is 13-9 with a 4.36 ERA and a 5.5 K/9 rate.
Against lefties, however, Lopez has held batters to a .242/.336/.350 batting line with 115 SO—more than double against RHB in his career.
The Breakdown:
Again, if you are a manager in need of a reliever that could potentially have an impact on your team, Lopez is in a great position to be that guy.
Why?
In the month of August, the Giants will face Colorado, Chicago NL, Atlanta, San Diego, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Cincinnati, and Arizona, which means they will be dealing with a 60/40 split in FAVOR of left handed batters.
In addition to that the Giants plan on using him specifically as a left-handed batter specialist, and considering closer Brian Wilson is currently on the mend with back spasms, and RP Jeremy Affeldt is out on the 15 day DL with a left oblique tear, there will be plenty of opportunities for their newly acquired reliever.
And if that’s not enough, Lopez has an average ownership of just under than 10% in both Yahoo leagues, and CBS leagues.
So, the only question that remains is simple: When will you pull the trigger on him?
