Whit Merrifield (2B, KC) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in AL-only leagues

OWNED IN: 3% of Fleaflicker leagues

ANALYSIS: Most fantasy players will look at major categories to value a player's worth. Most fantasy owners will also overlook players who are solid hitters but contribute more in the real game than in the fantasy one. But then the perfect storm of Whit Merrifield happens and owners should really start noticing a true up-and-comer for the Kansas City Royals.

While fine-tuning his craft in the minor leagues Merrifield was simply waiting for an opportunity to arise where he could strut his stuff. After being overshadowed for years in the once-vaunted Royals minor league system Merrifield now finds himself supplanting Omar Infante as the everyday 2B.

Merrifield's career 138 SB in the minors has already shown up as an asset for Kansas City as he has stolen three in 15 games thus far. Merrifield has gotten at least one hit in 13 of 15 games he has appeared in and should continue to get on base regularly. Merrifield will need to show more patience hitting near the top of the lineup, and his 1.6% BB rate is not going to cut it if he intends to continue his hot start. As he takes more walks and becomes a more patient player his OBP of .339 should continue to rise. He has never been a power guy and should be counted on to provide it but if he can keep hitting and keep growing game by game Merrifield will become the 2B of now and the future. Owners should expect a BA north of .300 with a handful of R, SB and an increased OBP making Merrifield a guy to own now.

Deep leagues should already take notice of Merrifield's exploits but shallower leagues will have to take notice if he keeps being viable.