Shawn Childs continues to advocate for stashing Jose Cabellero in 12-team fantasy leagues despite his limited early-season opportunity (only three starts in the Rays' first seven games). Citing Cabellero’s elite previous speed production (70 stolen bases combined over his previous 672 at-bats) and ability to play multiple positions, Childs believes Cabellero has significant bench value as a potential stolen-base specialist. Fantasy managers needing speed upside can benefit from rostering Cabellero in hopes the Rays expand his role to unlock that potential.

Shawn Childs emphasized Geraldo Perdomo as the premier shortstop on fantasy waiver wires after a sizzling start (11 hits, 11 RBIs, two steals in first eight games). Despite concerns around Jordan Lawlar potentially being called up to replace injured Ketel Marte, Childs remains bullish and sees Perdomo's fantasy value rising considerably if Arizona adjusts its batting order to elevate Perdomo's run-scoring opportunities. The D-backs have invested significantly in Perdomo (four-year, $45 million contract), further cementing his fantasy appeal for the immediate future.

Shawn Childs strongly believes Jordan Lawlar will soon be called up to fill in for injured Ketel Marte. Despite missing substantial playing time last season due to thumb and hamstring injuries, Lawlar hit .318 over limited action, showcasing a valuable skillset blending power and speed (36 steals previously at AA/AAA). Childs highlighted Lawlar's recent success at AAA and believes his call-up is imminent should Marte land on the injured list. Given his tools, Childs sees Lawlar offering immediate fantasy impact for managers needing versatile production.

Shawn Childs advised fantasy managers to consider Jose Miranda as a short-term starting fantasy third baseman while Royce Lewis remains sidelined. Miranda previously displayed legitimate power (15 home runs in 444 rookie at-bats) and improved batting average in 2024 (.284). Despite a slow start (only three hits through 19 at-bats), Miranda has both the playing time commitment and historical batting upside that justify an investment until Lewis returns to action.

Shawn Childs recommends Wilmer Flores as a viable short-term power boost despite being widely available (97% unowned in 12-team NFBC leagues). Flores hit two home runs with four RBIs last week, showcasing strong temporary power upside. Childs cautions fantasy managers that Flores won't maintain this scorching pace indefinitely, but still sees him as a solid fantasy asset until his bat cools off and potentially costs him playing time. Flores's recent production justifies adding him for immediate fantasy assistance.

Shawn Childs views Athletics prospect Nick Kurtz as a major-league ready fantasy option when called up, recommending strong consideration due to his proven track record of power and plate discipline. Kurtz, drafted fourth overall after an impressive college career at Wake Forest (.333 average, 61 HR, more walks than strikeouts), has started explosively at AA and AAA, hitting three home runs and driving in nine runs in just 21 at-bats at AAA. Given Oakland's situation, Childs anticipates Kurtz joining the big league roster shortly and advises fantasy managers needy for power at first base to monitor him closely for immediate impact upon promotion.

Shawn Childs recommended catcher Sean Murphy as an appealing fantasy asset as he nears a return from his rib injury, highlighting his steady historical performance. Despite missing time in three of the past four seasons, Murphy has produced moderate fantasy-relevant catcher numbers (.250 average with 18-21 HR potential annually). Recently, Murphy appeared in three rehab starts at AAA, hitting a home run and driving in two runs in limited at-bats. Benefiting from a strong run-producing Braves lineup but competing with a weaker second catcher for playing time, Childs projects Murphy for approximately 400 at-bats and a potential line of around 55 runs, 15 home runs, and solid run production. Childs views Murphy as a valuable second catcher target in 12-team roto leagues.