As we get closer to the end of the season in baseball, that means the end of the fantasy season is also right around the corner. That also means that many teams realize they can't win this year, so many have checked out, but those who still are active might be ready to unload some players that you can take advantage of their lowered price tag.
If you're still in the hunt there are a couple of notable names coming back from an injury that can immediately boost your team. They also have been a pain for owners this season, so many would be fine with unloading them at a discount.
The first name is Yordan Alvarez. Alvarez will report to Corpus Christi this week to start a rehab assignment. It looks like the season of woes for Alvarez could be coming to an end. Alvarez is a true game changer for any offense. He had hit 30 or more home runs in each of the past four seasons, along with 86,104, and 97 RBIs twice, and that comes with a great average right around .300. He will step into a pennant race on a solid offense and could be a league winner at a discounted price.
If you're looking for pitching, go no further than making an attempt to get Chris Sale. Sale is on a rehab assignment and could be back as early as next week. He just threw 56 pitches and plans to build that up in one or two more starts before rejoining the Braves. Sale wasn't having his Cy Young year, but was still very effective. An owner might be nervous about his age, his team being out of the playoffs, and his injury past, which all makes for compelling talking points when you try to obtain a big-time ace.
Finally, I would steer clear of Zach Wheeler and if you own him try to trade him for pennies on the dollar. Wheeler went down this week with blood clots and there is a good chance he won't pitch again this season. Blood clots can be life-threatening, and the underlying issue here is even if they are controlled by Wheeler, MLB does not allow you to pitch while on blood thinners. Most experts have said they believe that will be the course of action. Even if there is some debate if he can return the Phillies would be cautious with him and want him for the playoffs. He is a big time sell as our prayers are with him that this is only a sports related issue that can be resolved, but for fantasy his season is all but done.