Waiver Wire Spotlight: Nolan McLean Could Be a Game-Changer This Playoff Season
Shane Bieber's recent stellar performance post-surgery, alongside Nolan McLean's emergence as a potential star pitcher for the playoffs.
Before delving further into Week 23’s Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire, a quick note on Shane Bieber returning from Tommy John surgery this week. He dominated against the Marlins with six innings, allowing just one run, striking out nine batters, and yielding no walks. His velocity was impressive, showing a 15 swinging strikes total on 87 pitches, making him a must-roster player in all Fantasy leagues.
While Bieber’s impressive performance might not help many, here’s another pitcher to consider, Nolan McLean of the Mets, who is currently 64% rostered. McLean, previously a two-way player, only transitioned to pitching full-time last season. Appearing on the fringe of the top-100 prospects, he has since solidified his top-50 status with a stellar season, boasting a 2.45 ERA and a remarkable 10.1 K/9 across Double-A and Triple-A competitions. In his initial major league appearances, he has clearly demonstrated his potential.
Although his fastballs, sitting at 94.8 mph for his sinker and 95.9 mph for his four-seamer, are respectable, it’s his high-spin breaking balls that have garnered scouts’ attention. Currently, his curveball is thriving with a 44% whiff rate while his sweeper is underperforming at only a 26% whiff rate. Despite the sweeper’s failures, McLean’s strong start shows 8 strikeouts in his debut and 7 more in the next innings, amounting to 15 strikeouts against just four walks in his first 12.1 innings. Last Friday, he secured his second career win with a strong showing against a formidable Braves lineup, establishing himself as a must-start option going forward.
Although tougher challenges await, the signs are promising with McLean facing the Phillies this week and potentially pitching twice in Week 24 against the Tigers and Reds. These matchups could significantly impact Fantasy standings.
Week 23 Waiver Targets
Catcher
- Samuel Basallo of the Orioles (58% rostered) is a good pickup, especially now that Adley Rutschman is injured with an oblique strain. Basallo has shown promise and should be a player to watch.
… (continued with other waiver picks)
