Fantasy Baseball Waiver Wire: Jordan Walker, Cam Smith Finally Delivering on Their Promise Jordan Walker and Cam Smith have emerged as unexpected stars in the 2026 fantasy baseball season, with their recent performances signaling a long-awaited breakthrough after years of underwhelming play. Walker, once a top prospect who failed to meet expectations during his early MLB career, has finally started to deliver on his potential. His current season has seen him lead the league in exit velocity with an average of 98.4 mph, a stark contrast to his earlier struggles. The 23-year-old’s improved swing mechanics, which he worked on during spring training, have allowed him to consistently harness his natural power. His strikeout rate has dropped from 32% in 2025 to 23% this year, and his recent grand slam against the Guardians highlights his growing offensive threat. Despite the small sample size, his performance has made him a must-add for fantasy managers in all leagues. Cam Smith, meanwhile, has shown signs of a resurgence after a disappointing rookie season. The 23-year-old has started nine of the Astros’ 10 games so far, leveraging his 93rd percentile sprint speed to steal three bases. His bat speed has increased by 3 mph, placing him at 77.2 mph, which ranks fifth in the league. While his average exit velocity remains low at 83.7 mph, his willingness to take extra bases and his consistent playing time suggest a higher ceiling than previously anticipated. Smith’s performance has shifted the narrative around his potential, making him a valuable asset in leagues that prioritize power-speed profiles. Other notable pickups include Emerson Hancock, who has continued his strong start with the Mariners.#jordan_romano #jordan_walker #cam_smith #emerson_hancock #bryce_elder
