Fantasy Friday: Mariners Edition

Much to my wife's chagrin, I've played fantasy baseball for quite some time. She asks, "Why do I want to waste my time setting lineups for 162 games?" Maybe I'm a glutton for punishment or a die-hard baseball fan who loves roster construction. Either way, this series will drop once a month, highlighting Mariners from a fantasy baseball perspective, giving you the inside scoop on moves that might help you win your league.

Waiver Wire Possibilities

If you still need to put in a claim for Bryce Miller, get cracking. The Mariners' top pitching prospect shined in his debut against the Oakland Athletics this week. Manager Scott Servais has said this isn't a one-time spot start. Much like George Kirby last season, Miller will be in the rotation for the long haul. The flame-throwing righthander is available in 69% of Yahoo Fantasy Leagues and 59% of ESPN.

Does your league keep holds as a counting statistic? If so, look for Justin Topa. He's solidified a role on this team, sliding into the 7th-inning spot. Topa, who the team picked up this offseason via Milwaukee, has thrown 13 innings of spectacular ball striking out 13 and racking up six holds. He's out there in all leagues with an average of 2% rostered.

Start 'em or Sit 'em

Offensively this team is pun intended, hit or miss. Julio Rodriguez, Ty France, and Teoscar Hernandez are mired in two weeklong slumps. This isn't the time to jettison them off your roster, but you can slide these three to the Bench if your depth can cover. Mariners-related pickups available in Yahoo! Leagues to steady your lineup could include Jarred Kelenic (87%), Eugenio Suarez (79%), and Taylor Trammell (0%). Suarez new approach is leading to a higher OBP, which helps.

Check back here next month for another dive into the Mariners on the fantasy side of the house. The essential bats will warm up with the weather and hopefully propel your team to a league championship. As for me, I'll go back to scanning the waiver wire; even if the misses isn't on board.