Michael Kopech - Closers and Saves Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Adds

BALLER MOVE: Add in 14+ Team Leagues

ROSTERED IN: 17% of Leagues

ANALYSIS: Prior to Tuesday, the White Sox had used a plethora of pitchers in the final inning of their games so far in 2024, including Dominic Leone, John Brebbia, Deivi Garcia, Steven Wilson, and Tim Hill. None were actual save chances, although the game was on the line (tied) in some cases. In the first save opportunity the White Sox had, however, they turned to Michael Kopech for a multi-inning save.

Kopech's last outing surely gave them the confidence to use him there, one in which he didn't allow a hit or a walk while striking out three in 1 2/3 innings pitched. Tuesday's outing in a 3-2 win over the Braves was the 27-year-old's first save of his career as he's predominantly pitched as a starter outside of the 2021 season. His stuff profiles much like a typical closer, with a four-seamer that can touch triple digits paired with an 86 mph slider (80% FB usage so far in 2024).

Michael Kopech gets the Sox out of a jam! 😤 pic.twitter.com/UikgPjPiQG

— White Sox Talk (@NBCSWhiteSox) April 3, 2024

Kopech's issue isn't velocity, though; it's throwing his pitches for strikes and his proclivity for giving up the long ball. Last season over 129 1/3 IP, the righty posted a horrid 15.4% BB% and 17.4% HR/FB% (29 HRs). In Tuesday's save, he had a smattering of both, allowing two walks and a HR. They say the closer role requires a different mindset from a starter, so perhaps this is part of the process rather than a continuation of his starter tendencies. At some point, he'll settle into the role.

Putting those issues aside, prospective managers should also consider that there may not be many save chances for him on a bad team like the White Sox. Looking at the other bullpen arms, the former first-round draft pick shouldn't have competition for the role unless he falters consistently.

Kopech is still available in over 80% of Yahoo leagues and could be a speculative add in deep leagues or for managers looking to pick up any save they can get. Just know that it may not be pretty at times and that the save may come at the expense of WHIP and ERA.

More Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Pickups

Jacob deGrom - Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 25)

BALLER MOVE: Add in All Leagues ROSTERED IN: 75% of Leagues ANALYSIS: Texas Rangers starting pitcher Jacob deGrom is on the verge of returning to the major leagues and should be rostered in all formats. The former two-time Cy Young winner underwent Tommy John surgery last summer and began a rehab assignment in late August. Through […]

Andy Smith 5 months ago

Kumar Rocker - Fantasy Baseball Prospects Waiver Wire Pickups (Week 25)

BALLER MOVE: Add in 12+ Team Leagues ROSTERED IN: 15% of Leagues ANALYSIS:  Texas Rangers starting pitching prospect Kumar Rocker is set to make his major league debut on Thursday and should be added in all standard leagues. Rocker has had a rocky start to his professional career. He was originally drafted by the New […]

Andy Smith 5 months ago

Jasson Dominguez: Fantasy Baseball Prospects Waiver Wire Pickups for Week 25 (2024)

BALLER MOVE: Add in 12+ Team Leagues ROSTERED IN: 35% of Leagues ANALYSIS: The New York Yankees called up their top prospect, Jasson Dominguez, before Monday's series opener against the Kansas City Royals. Dominguez hit sixth and played left field in his second major league start of the season. In that contest, he went 1-for-4 with […]

Joey Pollizze 5 months ago

Will Wagner - Fantasy Baseball Prospects Waiver Wire Stashes (Week 23)

BALLER MOVE: Use as Streamer for Rest of Season / Stash in Dynasty Leagues CALL-UP ETA: In Majors ANALYSIS: Will Wagner, the son of legendary closer Billy Wagner, was acquired by the Toronto Blue Jays at this year’s trade deadline from the Houston Astros as part of the Yusei Kikuchi return. The 26-year-old currently ranks […]

Jake Kleiner 6 months ago

Connor Norby - Fantasy Baseball Prospects Waiver Wire Stashes (Week 22)

BALLER MOVE: Add in Deeper Leagues CALL-UP ETA: August 19 ANALYSIS: Connor Norby is finally making his much-anticipated debut for the Miami Marlins. Norby, who was acquired at the trade deadline in the deal that sent Trevor Rogers to Baltimore, was playing with Miami's Triple-A team in Jacksonville since being traded but was activated by Miami […]

Dan Palyo 6 months ago