Article is from our friends at Fantasy Furnace...Ironically, most of this week's waiver wire pickups all play on relatively poor teams who are either in last place or hovering just above it. All this proves is that it really doesn't matter where an owner gets his players from as long as they perform. This week all of our pickups are owned in 25% or less in most leagues so for most of you, they should be available...
1. Kyle Blanks-1B,OF-Padres 
- 25% owned- With more playing time now at 1B as Yonder Alonso and Cameron Maybin continue to linger on the DL, the oft-injured Blanks is getting to show his offensive arsenal on a daily basis. Through 43 games in total this season, Blanks has 8 home runs, 22 RNIs, 7 doubles and is batting a respectable .285. The once highly touted 6' 6" Blanks whose height brings back shades of Dave Winfield, is someone to consider grabbing at least for the short term while we wait to see what will happen when the Pods are back to full strength.
2. Nick Franklin-2B,SS Mariners 
- 25% owned- This former 1st round pick of the Mariners was called up last month, and had his major league debut on May 27th. Although just a small sample, Franklin has played in just 16 games and has posted a .300 average over his 50 at bats. He also has stolen a couple of bases and homered twice as he does posses some power as well as speed. Playing two infield positions will be an asset for your team should you find yourself in need of a MI in deeper leagues.
3. Dillon Gee-SP-Mets 
- 10% owned- Trying his best to stay in the rotation once Mets top prospect Zach Wheeler is called up next week, Gee has turned his season around. Over his last three games, all wins, Gee has posted a 1.29 ERA along with a 19K/3BB ratio while allowing just three earned runs in 21 innings. Clearly the favorite to stay over Jeremy Hefner, Gee has been dealing with flexor tendonitis and if he can manage to control the pain and still pitch as well as he has of late, then he is safe to pick up in most leagues.
4. Jordan Lyles-SP-Astros 
- 3% owned- We know that it may be difficult for owners out there to pick up an Astro pitcher, but before you scoff at the opportunity, consider this; Lyles struck out 10...
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