Late Season Help

This a the time in the fantasy year where every hit, rbi, sb or save can make a difference. If you're in a head to head league, you're either prepping for the playoffs or fighting for that last spot. If you're in a roto league, it's probably pretty clear what teams are still in it and who's out. If you're reading this, you're hopefully still in it and are still looking for that difference maker off the wire. For most leagues the trade deadline has past, so the wire is your only option. Fortunately there are some guys who can help and I'm here to point them out. This isn't about names, but about stats. It might be time to drop that struggling vet for the unknown guy off the wire who just got called up or returned from an injury. Anyone can help, so make the move and bring home the victory.

Call-ups

Nelson Cruz OF TEX - He's been here before, but after a disappointing stint last year with the Rangers, he killed AAA with 37 HRs, .342 BA and 99 RBIs. He's up now and playing regularly. He's got the skills, but let's see if he can deliver when it counts. I'd take a flyer on him if you need power, but be prepared for a low BA at first.

Pablo Sanoval C/CI SF - A highly touted prospect getting his first action in the majors hasn't disappointed. SF wants to see what he can do, so he's playing almost everyday. In leagues that he's C eligible (5 games so far), he's an immediate pick up, but he could be 1b or 3b eligible soon. Watch his games played and be ready to pounce. He could deliver solid production down the stretch.

Max Scherzer SP/RP ARI - He's just returned from the minors and appears headed to the pen. He's shown he can pitch in the majors, so now it's just a matter of opportunity. Y. Petit is still locked in at the 5th spot, so he'll probably end up in the pen, but he has the potential to be a spot starter or even the closer if things fall apart in the Diamondback's pen.

Returning from the DL

Ryan Church OF NYM - He appears to be back to full health and is now starting almost everyday for the Mets. If he can hit like he did the first 3 months, he'd be a steal off the wire. He's started off slow, but he should be watched closely and even worth a flyer now before he heats up.

Adam Jones OF BAL - I've talked about him before, but he's close to returning to the Oriole's lineup and you should grab him now and stash him on your DL. His power/speed combination would be a welcome addition to any fantasy roster for the final month.

Ryan Spilborghs OF COL - He's been out a while, but it appears that he'll be back by Sept. 1 if things go smoothly on his rehab assignment. COL is playing well and he should get plenty of playing time if he proves healthy. He's a solid option if you miss out on Church or Jones.

There you go. Some late seasons options for those still in the hunt. Don't let the start of football derail the work you've put in during the summer. You can still make a run or hold off that 2nd place team.