Which MLB Breakouts Are Real? + Fantasy Baseball Waiver Targets

MLB's final push for the Wild Card and Playoffs are here, Derek VanRiper and Eno Sarris have everything you need for the stretch run. DVR and Eno break down the best September waiver-wire targets, two-start pitchers and late-season saves options while examining whether breakouts from Jordan Walker, James Wood and other young hitters are sustainable heading into 2027.

First, the guys catch up on the baseball news you should know. Carlos Correa is nearing a September return, Eugenio Suárez and TJ Friedl have landed on waivers, Mason Winn's thumb injury creates new questions in St. Louis, and Denzel Clarke could get another opportunity with the A's. Plus, Roki Sasaki heads back to the IL while Gavin Stone and Tony Gonsolin work their way toward potential September returns.

Walker has changed his swing, lowered his strikeout rate and reached a new level of power, but should fantasy managers really pay a first-round price next spring? The guys also look ahead to Cam Smith and Lawrence Butler, including why a big September from Smith could make him more expensive than DVR wants him to be in 2027 fantasy drafts.

Then it's time to attack the waiver wire for the final month of the fantasy baseball season. Tristan Peters remains surprisingly available despite a productive season and everyday role with the White Sox, while Rafael Flores, Mickey Gasper and Tim Tawa offer potential help in deeper formats.

Follow Rates & Barrels for MLB analysis, fantasy baseball strategy, advanced stats, waiver-wire advice and player development with Derek VanRiper and Eno Sarris.

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Hosts: Derek VanRiper & Eno Sarris

Executive Producer: McEnroe Francis

Editor: McEnroe Francis

00:00 — Fantasy Friday: September Targets & MLB News

02:05 — Carlos Correa Nearing a Return

03:56 — Eugenio Suárez & TJ Friedl Hit Waivers

06:15 — Mason Winn Injury & Cardinals Playing Time

12:19 — Denzel Clarke Nearing a Return

15:18 — Roki Sasaki Heads to the IL

17:52 — Can Hitters Really Change Their Swing Decisions?

23:08 — James Wood’s Improved Approach

24:24 — Jordan Walker’s Breakout & 2027 Value

32:54 — Cam Smith vs. Lawrence Butler

39:21 — Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire Targets

39:42 — Why Tristan Peters Is Still Available

44:21 — Rafael Flores & Mickey Gasper

46:44 — Elliot Ramos & Taylor Ward Stock Down

48:00 — Best Two-Start Pitchers for Next Week

49:23 — Drop Grayson Rodriguez?

53:03 — Deep-League Streamers & Saves Targets

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