As the MLB season heads into May, it's crucial for fantasy baseball managers to stay ahead of the game with effective waiver wire pickups. This week, key players like Ben Rice and Jonathan Aranda rise to the top of the priority list, both boasting solid roster percentages and upside potential. Notably, injuries to high-impact players such as Logan Gilbert and the struggling Devin Williams open up opportunities for others.

For those seeking pitching help, Luke Weaver and David Bednar are highlighted as strong adds, especially with Weaver stepping into a temporary closer role for the Yankees. Meanwhile, keep an eye on up-and-coming talents like Nick Kurtz and Caleb Durbin, who are beginning to make their mark in their respective lineups.

This Saturday's MLB prop bets highlight Jonathan Aranda, Gavin Lux, and Grant Holmes. Jonathan Aranda, infielder for the Tampa Bay Rays, boasts an impressive .311 batting average with solid power numbers, making him a prime candidate to surpass 1.5 bases (+185) against the struggling Dylan Cease. Aranda's 12 extra-base hits showcase his potential to impact the game in just one at-bat.

Gavin Lux, the Cincinnati Reds utility player, is also projected to exceed 1.5 bases (+116). He is hitting .316 this season and has had success against Colorado Rockies pitcher Antonio Senzatela, making him a solid bet. Lastly, Atlanta Braves pitcher Grant Holmes is set for a strikeout prop of over 4.5 (+116). Despite facing a low-strikeout Arizona Diamondbacks lineup, Holmes has shown excellent form, limiting opposing batters to a .169 average.

This week's Waiver Wire Watch highlights key players under 40% rostered in ESPN formats for fantasy baseball. Jonathan Aranda (TB) continues to impress with a .367 average and significant power in recent games, while Tyler Fitzgerald (SF) showcases speed and a hot streak, hitting .353 over his last ten games. Dylan Moore (SEA) benefits from increased playing time due to injuries on his team, hitting .308 and displaying speed potential. Other notable players include Rhys Hoskins (MIL), who is gaining momentum post-injury, and Chandler Simpson (TB), whose speed makes him an enticing add. Sal Frelick (MIL) and Jorge Polanco (SEA) also show promise, solidifying their everyday roles. For deeper leagues, players like Mike Yastrzemski (SF) and Gabriel Arias (CLE) are notable mentions, offering reliable contributions and multi-position eligibility.

Jonathan Aranda's dramatic two-run walk-off homer in the 10th inning propelled the Tampa Bay Rays to a thrilling 10-8 victory over the New York Yankees, ending a four-game losing streak. The Rays showed resilience, coming back from a daunting 6-1 deficit in the fourth and an 8-4 gap entering the ninth. A late rally saw them score four runs, highlighted by Brandon Lowe’s crucial two-run single that tied the game. Shane Baz, who struggled, was replaced after allowing five runs, but the team’s offensive burst, featuring contributions from Jose Caballero and Yandy Diaz, turned the tide.

In a remarkable twist, rookie Chandler Simpson made his major-league debut, batting leadoff for the Rays, bringing excitement and speed to the lineup. Manager Kevin Cash expressed optimism about Simpson's potential impact, especially given his impressive minor-league stats, including a powerful combination of speed and contact hitting. Meanwhile, the team faces a setback with Richie Palacios expected to miss 4-6 weeks due to a knee injury. The Rays aim to build on this momentum as they prepare for their next matchup against the Yankees.