NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 31: Carson Benge #3 of the New York Mets reacts at home plate after his first inning home run against the Miami Marlins at Citi Field on May 31, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
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The All-Star break is next week, giving fantasy managers an opportunity to assess their rosters for the stretch run. Whether it’s hitting or pitching, there are still some appealing options out there. Let’s highlight five players to consider adding who are still available in the majority of Yahoo leagues.
Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Targets For Week 17
Carson Benge, OF, New York Mets (49% rostered)
Benge has caught fire at the plate, hitting 27-for-82 (.329) with a .396 OBP, four home runs, 11 RBI, and 14 runs scored over his last 20 games. During that span, the young outfielder only had an 18.7% strikeout rate. Benge also showed a good eye in the minors, posting a 17.7% strikeout rate across three levels last year. In addition to his improving average, Benge has 11 home runs and 13 stolen bases for the season. With his ability to contribute in multiple categories, he should be rostered in more leagues.
Brendan Donovan, 2B/3B/SS/OF, Seattle Mariners (49% rostered)
Donovan has been out since the middle of May with a groin injury. Prior to going down, he was playing well with his .274 batting average and .838 OPS. For his career, he is batting .282 with a .341 wOBA, so he can be a valuable fantasy option. Also helping his cause is that he is eligible at four positions on Yahoo. He is progressing towards making a return and will likely start playing in rehab games in the next few days. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see him return shortly after the All-Star break.
A.J. Ewing, OF, New York Mets (30% rostered)
Ewing is another young outfielder that the Mets have high hopes for. He has also picked up his production lately, hitting 18-for-53 (.340) with five home runs, 11 RBI, 12 runs scored, and two stolen bases over his last 15 games. After posting a .428 wOBA in the minors this year, he has a .352 wOBA since being called up. Although he doesn’t have as much power as Benge, Ewing’s ability to get on base and record steals still makes him a viable option in 12-team leagues.
Grant Taylor, RP, Chicago White Sox (20% rostered)
Seranthony Dominguez appears to have lost the closer’s job for the White Sox after a recent stretch in which he gave up six runs and blew two saves over six appearances. His WHIP is up to 1.39 for the season. In his last two appearances, he came in during the sixth inning. That has opened the door for Taylor, who earned a save against the Guardians last weekend. His WHIP is much better at 1.11, and he is also missing plenty of bats with his 33.9% strikeout rate. He is worth a speculative add at this point.
Luke Weaver, RP, New York Mets (13% rostered)
Weaver has been excellent this season, recording a 2.77 xERA, 0.84 WHIP, and a 28.6% strikeout rate. He has been much better than Mets closer Devin Williams, who has a 12.0% walk rate that has left him with a bloated 1.63 WHIP. Weaver is not getting save opportunities right now, but the Mets could be sellers at the trade deadline as they currently sit in the cellar of the NL East. Williams could be available. If they don’t move Williams, there is also a chance that Weaver gets traded to a team that will provide him with save opportunities. If you have a bench spot to play with, adding Weaver now could pay dividends in the long run.
Takeaway
Benge, Donovan, and Ewing are three hitters to target on the waiver wire heading into Week 17. For those who need saves, Taylor and Weaver are speculative options to consider. Be sure to check back throughout the season as we provide the top waiver wire options to help you win your fantasy baseball league.