Waiver Wire: James Loney
By Brad Kelly
As we extend into another week of the fantasy playoffs, the owners that are left are probably looking for minor pieces to add to their lineups that could serve as upgrades. While there are not usually too many valuable options left, there is some value players that exist still.
One guy to potentially target would be, James Loney. Owners should be familiar with Loney as he has been in the league for a while now, as he does offer a skillset that is worth implementing.
Even though Loney stands at a respectable, 6’3 and 235 pounds, he has always proven to be more of a gap to gap hitter, rather than the expected power guy at first base. He has battled some injuries this season, but over his career he has been a pretty steady producer.
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If we exclude his rough 2012, Loney has not battled lower than .280 over the last four years. Prior to missing time in 2015, Loney was also providing modest RBI numbers, as he had over 60 the previous two seasons.
Point being, that Loney has an established track record of being an unsexy, but serviceable CI in fantasy. Now in terms of the fantasy playoffs, owners should be looking at Loney as he can help stabilize your lineup as you try and maximize your chances at winning every category.
Loney lacks the power you look for in a corner infielder, but he offers you decent help in the AVG, OPS, and Runs categories. Over the last two week she has been able to post a, 4 R/.405 AVG/2 RBI/.936 OPS line.
The RBI and power production are lacking clearly, as the Rays lineup and Loney’s skillset cap his upside, but with trips to Boston and Toronto upcoming, the offense should see an uptick. I like adding a player like Loney during the playoffs, because they are what I consider “safer” options.
When adding guys off the waiver wire or even some guys that are in our lineups now, volatility can often be the death of our championship runs. I know at worse that Loney will provide me a decent AVG, which allows us more wiggle room in terms of those pure power options that can struggle week to week.
Over the last two months he has really been in a grove as he has hit .298 in August and sits with a .375 AVG for September. He does not have tremendous upside, but as a cheap option off the waiver wire he allows you some reassurance that you are not completely punting either AVG or OPS.
He had 11 RBI last month, so there is hope that the Rays lineup does just enough to allow him RBI chances as he still bats in the middle of the order. Look for Loney to do just the same this week and be a sneaky potential find off the wire.
Owners should at least entertain the thought of adding him at this point, as the championship is right there for the taking. If Loney can stay hot, you are looking a waiver wire steal that could be instrumental in helping your squads get that edge you need.