Working the Waiver Wire: May 19th

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  • By Nathan Baker

    Last Updated on May 19, 2026 12:59 pm by Paul Williamson | Published: May 19, 2026

    Today’s four roster additions feature a trio of prospects (including one available in 98% of leagues) and an ace-caliber pitcher to stash for leagues with playoffs if you are flying high in your league’s standings.

    A.J. Ewing – 2B/OF – Mets – 39% Rostered

    It’s not often that you see a player increase their ownership percentage by almost 40%, but if there’s ever a way to do it, AJ Ewing has just shown how. A .500 on base percentage with a pair of steals, a homer and a triple through six games is impressive, but perhaps more impressive is the combination of speed, discipline and surprising pop at the dish that makes the realization of his five tool potential all the more imminent.

    He’ll continue to get the opportunity to play every day in centerfield with the Mets slew of injuries, and has the raw tools to at least be a high OBP steals machine, who should also hit for a solid average as well. He’s not known for his power, but he does produce impressive exit velocities for such a short swing, leading to some potential to improve upon his low home run totals in the minors. Ewing is worth a pickup everywhere, with the potential to be a premium fantasy asset, especially on Yahoo where he can play second base as well.

    Spencer Schwellenbach – SP – Braves – 30% Rostered

    If you are in a league with open IL spots and/or a playoff bracket to determine the league winner, Schwellenbach is a must add for his late season starts alone. He’s expected to return from bone spur removal surgery in late July, getting him fully stretched out by the time most playoff matchups start in late August, and the Braves should be in the thick of the race at that point.

    Over his 38 starts from the second half of 2024 to the first half of 2025, Schwellenbach pitched like an ace, holding a 3.23 ERA with a minuscule 1.01 WHIP, using his three fastballs and strike throwing approach to consistently get ahead of hitters. Assuming his stuff is back to his pre- surgery self, he’ll put up top 20 (at worst) SP points per start once he’s ramped back up, making him a must add as soon as you are able to accommodate him on your roster (assuming you’ve got playoffs to prep for).

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    May 19, 2026, 12:59 pm