The fantasy baseball season continues to roll along, and even though the All-Star break is rapidly approaching, there is still plenty of time to stash players and wait for their return. Stashing players is a fantasy strategy that many managers take advantage of, particularly for those teams who find themselves near the top of their leagues.
Holding a player on the IL or even a roster spot is less detrimental when a team is ranked near the top of their fantasy baseball leagues. Stashed players can be top prospects seeking a promotion to the MLB, injured players working their way back to the lineup, or minor leaguers on the verge of being called up to the majors.
Here's a look at 3 must-stash players in fantasy baseball leagues
#1. Shane Baz
It seems that the Tampa Bay Rays could call up pitcher Shane Baz any day now. The 25-year-old has been electric since returning from the IL, however, the problem for fantasy managers is the fact that he is having that success in Triple-A. Over 34.1 innings in the minors this season, Baz owns a 4.19 ERA with 37 strikeouts. He could be a valuable fantasy asset when he is finally promoted.
#2. Robbie Ray
It is only three years removed since Robbie Ray won the American League Cy Young Award. The problem for Ray in recent years has been injuries, as the veteran starter missed nearly all of the 2023 season with Tommy John surgery. Well, Ray is on his way back to the MLB and should be considered a must-stash player for fantasy baseball managers needing a pitching upgrade.
It may still be some time before Ray returns to the San Francisco Giants' pitching rotation, however, he has already started a minor-league rehab assignment. Over 9.1 innings, Ray has posted a 3.86 ERA with a whopping 17 strikeouts.
#3. Josh Jung
There is a chance that Josh Jung could be activated sometime this week, so he may not be considered a long-term stash option. That being said, fantasy baseball managers should look to add the hard-hitting third baseman wherever he is available. Last season, Jung racked up 23 home runs, 70 RBIs and a .266 batting average for the Texas Rangers. He could be a league-winning talent for managers.
"Bruce Bochy said that they sent Josh Jung back to Texas to be checked out. He did not swing today. Bochy said he can’t say when Jung will rejoin the team, but it could be on this road trip" - @McFarland_Shawn