As the MLB trade deadline approaches next week, fantasy baseball managers are looking for strategic waiver wire pickups to strengthen their rosters. Despite potential role changes for many players, several candidates still stand out for Week 20 and remain available in most Yahoo leagues. This offers a prime opportunity to add talent that could contribute immediately or prove valuable during the season’s final stretch.

Among the top pitching targets is Christian Scott of the New York Mets, owned in just 29% of leagues. Scott has impressed recently with three of his last four starts allowing no more than one run, demonstrating a strong 28.8% strikeout rate and limiting hard contact to a 34.2% hard-hit rate. The Mets see Scott as a long-term rotation piece, and his upcoming starts against the Guardians and Pirates make him an excellent streaming option. Similarly, Walbert Urena of the Los Angeles Angels is worth considering for his consistent ability to contain opposing offenses, backed by a 2.70 ERA and solid control limiting home runs.

Injured starter Clay Holmes also merits attention despite limited ownership at 32%, as he nears a return from a lower leg injury. His career numbers—3.53 ERA and 3.66 expected ERA—suggest he could have immediate fantasy impact, though his future with the Mets may be uncertain given their projected seller status at the deadline. On the offensive side, young outfielders Braden Montgomery of the White Sox and Spencer Jones of the Yankees provide upside. Montgomery, who is owned in 11% of leagues, has posted a solid recent run with a high on-base percentage, while Jones, rostered in only 4%, offers power potential during the Yankees’ injury struggles.

Overall, Christian Scott, Clay Holmes, and Walbert Urena stand out as the premier pitching adds this week, while Montgomery and Jones bring value for those needing outfield help or playing in deeper formats. With the trade deadline imminent, monitoring roster moves and seizing available talent now could pay dividends as the fantasy baseball season heads toward its final stages. Fantasy managers should stay tuned for ongoing waiver wire advice to gain an edge throughout the campaign.