SS Adael Amador, Colorado Rockies
The Rockies called up the switch-hitting middle infielder over the weekend, but this is more of a first test than a call for the foreseeable future. Amador finished 2023, slashing .287/.380/.495 with 12 home runs, 46 RBI, and 15 stolen bases across Rookie, A+, and AA. His ability to hit to all parts of the field was on display, and he produced well early in 2024 at AA Hartford. Through 46 games, Amador slashed .194/.337/.329 with seven home runs, 24 RBI, and 22 stolen bases. Looking past batting average, his peripheral numbers were great. He was able to get on base, keep his strikeout percentage at 22%, and a lot of his low batting average had to do with bad luck as many balls were hit right at fielders. There is a lot to like in the 21-year-old, and as he develops into his 6’ 200lb frame, he can become a force for fantasy baseball rosters. Should he produce admirably, the Rockies may have their hands tied and keep Amador on the Major League roster after Brendan Rodgers is eligible to return from the injured list.
INF Orelivis Martinez INF, Toronto Blue Jays
Martinez currently sits as the #2 prospect in the Blue Jays organization. He has spent time at shortstop, third base, and second base, and he could be the next prospect called up and penciled in as the starting third baseman in Toronto. Plus power, Martinez is slashing .249/.336/.516 with 15 home runs and 43 RBI for AAA Buffalo. He is well on his way to a third consecutive season, averaging 29 home runs and 85 RBI. Fantasy owners should look for Martinez to get his call within the upcoming month, as the Blue Jays could desperately use a shot in the arm with a power bat. As with numerous young, power bats, fantasy owners may deal with a high number of strikeouts early on, as Martinez currently owns a strikeout rate just shy of 30%.
RHP Drew Thorpe RHP, Chicago White Sox
The key piece in the deal that sent Dylan Cease to San Diego, Drew Thorpe, has been lights out for AA Birmingham, owning a 7-1 record (11 GS), 1.35 ERA, 0.86 WHIP, and 56 strikeouts in 60 innings. While he does not “wow” many with his mid-90s fastball, his changeup is one of the best in the minor leagues, and it has led to much success through his 11 starts. The White Sox intend to call Thorpe up to make his debut Tuesday against the Mariners. Fantasy owners looking for starting pitching depth should immediately add Thorpe. Again, he is not in the realm of elite fastballs, but he has many resemblances to former starting pitcher Rich Harden.
RHP Trevor Martin RHP, Tampa Bay Rays
A 3rd round pick in 2022, Martin enters his second full season pitching in the minor leagues. He is coming off a 2023 season where he recorded 131 strikeouts in 110 innings. Through 12 starts this season, Martin has tightened up his off-speed pitches, helping lead to a 2.97 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, and 82 strikeouts in 63.2 innings for A+ Bowling Green. His mid-90s fastball has seen an uptick in velocity, but his slider is his calling card as an out pitch. Martin may have to wait until 2025 for his call-up, but the Rays organization has been great at drafting, and developing, pitching, and Martin has the makings of a solid number two/number three starting pitcher. Now is the time for fantasy baseball managers to monitor Martin’s movement, as he will be valuable when he gets his call.
