Top Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Pickups: Players to Watch in Week 2

Your Fantasy Baseball Game-Changers

The opening weeks of the MLB season are a golden opportunity to seize players who could redefine your fantasy baseball roster. With emerging statistics, shifting player roles, and crucial winter adjustments coming to light, the waiver wire beckons. Here are the key players to consider picking up during the second week of the season.

1. Parker Messick, SP, Cleveland Guardians

Rostered in just 25.7% of leagues, Parker Messick is a name you'll want to keep on your radar. Despite being drafted in the 381st slot, his performance has been stellar, posting a 2.72 ERA over the latter part of last season. His skills on display include an impressive arsenal of six pitches and pinpoint command, which has led to a 4.4% walk rate—one of the best among starting pitchers.

“Messick continues to rise in the ranks. His recent shows against powerhouses like the Los Angeles Dodgers indeed make him a streaming option worth holding onto beyond just a couple of starts.”

2. Garrett Mitchell, OF, Milwaukee Brewers

Recently healthy after shoulder surgeries, Garrett Mitchell's potential can no longer be ignored. His contributions—hitting .257 with 14 home runs and 26 stolen bases in just 149 MLB games—preview what he could become in 2026. Currently just 6.6% rostered, his stats show alarming improvements, such as a 15.4% barrel rate and 61.5% hard-hit rate. There's an edge in his game that might lead to fantasy gold.

3. Max Muncy, 3B/2B, Oakland Athletics

After a disappointing 2025, Muncy is back on track, hitting .380 in spring training. Rostered in 9% of leagues, he embodies potential. Pairing health and performance, he could very well claim a consistent starting spot in this young season.

4. Kodai Senga, SP, New York Mets

With a roster share of 42.4%, Senga is regaining trust. Boasting a 96.7 mph average fastball and a killer 'ghost fork,' he has me reconsidering my earlier hesitations. His increased velocity and whiff rate mark him as a potential must-have.

5. Jordan Walker, OF, St. Louis Cardinals

Drafted as a top-20 prospect, Walker has yet to show his true capabilities. Monitoring his performance, particularly his improved chase rates, could reveal a budding talent just waiting for the right moment.

Two-Start Pitching Options

Looking ahead, consider Andrew Painter from the Philadelphia Phillies. Currently available in over half of ESPN leagues, his mix of top-tier pitches and promising first outings solidify him as a must-pick for managers eager to gain an edge.

Deeper League Considerations

• Bryce Elder, SP, Atlanta Braves (19.4% rostered): He has made remarkable adjustments this spring which improve his ERA prospects.
• Rhett Lowder, SP, Cincinnati Reds (6.6% rostered): Despite being somewhat unproven, his recent improvements merit attention for deeper leagues.
• Ben Brown, SP/RP, Chicago Cubs (1.5% rostered): An underappreciated asset, he may soon thrive as part of a rotation needing fresh talent.

Final Thoughts

The beginning of a new season is fraught with opportunity. Targeting players who show promise can set you apart as the stakes get higher. With every game, the fantasy landscape evolves, so stay ahead by making calculated adds each week.