The Resurgence of Emmet Sheehan

The Road Back: A Journey of Resilience

Emmet Sheehan, a right-handed pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is making waves in the fantasy baseball community. His journey back from Tommy John surgery has been nothing short of inspiring. The 2024 season was a challenging one for Sheehan, as the surgery cut his season short. However, his performance in the 11 starts he made before the injury provided a solid foundation. He posted a 4-1 record with a 4.92 ERA, showcasing his potential and gaining valuable MLB experience.

Sheehan’s recovery has been meticulously tracked, and reports indicate he is nearing full strength. His debut in the 2025 season against the San Diego Padres marked a significant milestone in his comeback. The anticipation surrounding his return is palpable, with fantasy managers eagerly awaiting his next outing.

Performance Indicators: The Numbers Behind the Comeback

One of the most promising aspects of Sheehan’s return is the data surrounding his pitching mechanics. His velocity has remained consistent with pre-injury levels, which is a strong indicator of his physical readiness. However, the real game-changer has been the improvement in his changeup. The velocity of his changeup has increased by 2.5 mph, and its movement profile has distinctly altered, making it a more effective secondary pitch to complement his fastball.

Early returns from his MLB action since 2023 have been closely monitored. Analysts suggest that if Sheehan can limit walks, he has a clear path to success. The Dodgers’ rotation, currently facing some depth challenges, provides an opportunity for Sheehan to secure a consistent role and accumulate valuable innings. His next start is projected for the following week, allowing fantasy managers to further evaluate his performance.

Waiver Wire Buzz: The Rising Star

The increasing attention on Sheehan is reflected in his rising ownership percentages across various fantasy platforms. Initially available in over 90% of leagues, his ownership has climbed to around 43% as of recent reports, and even higher on some platforms. This trend underscores the growing recognition of his potential value.

Sheehan is consistently featured in waiver wire articles and recommendations from prominent fantasy baseball analysts. He has been highlighted as a top waiver-wire target alongside other promising prospects like Chase Burns of the Reds and hitters like Roman Anthony. The consistent inclusion in these lists suggests a consensus view that Sheehan represents a worthwhile gamble for fantasy managers.

Contextualizing Sheehan: The Broader Landscape

While Sheehan is generating excitement, it’s crucial to consider the broader context of the fantasy baseball landscape. Chase Burns, a highly touted pitching prospect for the Reds, is also attracting significant attention on the waiver wire. Burns is considered by many to be the best pitching prospect in baseball and is rapidly ascending through the minor league ranks.

However, Burns is still developing and has yet to fully establish himself at the MLB level. Sheehan, on the other hand, has already demonstrated the ability to compete in the majors, albeit in a limited sample size. His experience, combined with the improvements in his pitching arsenal, could give him a slight edge in terms of immediate fantasy impact.

The Dodgers’ Rotation: A Platform for Success

The Dodgers’ pitching situation plays a significant role in Sheehan’s potential. The team’s rotation has faced challenges with injuries and inconsistencies, creating opportunities for younger pitchers to step up. Sheehan’s ability to capitalize on this opportunity will be key to his success.

The Dodgers are known for their player development expertise, and they have a track record of nurturing young pitching talent. This supportive environment could further accelerate Sheehan’s progress and unlock his full potential. The team’s commitment to winning also suggests they will provide Sheehan with ample opportunities to prove himself.

Beyond Sheehan: Other Waiver Wire Considerations

While Sheehan is a compelling target, fantasy managers should also remain aware of other potential waiver wire pickups. Jacob Misiorowski, a Brewers prospect, is generating buzz with dominant performances in the minor leagues. His high strikeout rate and impressive stuff make him an intriguing option for fantasy teams in need of a pitching boost.

Additionally, monitoring the closer situation across MLB is crucial. The “Closer Monkey” tracks bullpen changes, providing timely alerts to help fantasy managers identify and acquire potential saves leaders. Staying informed about these developments can provide a significant competitive advantage.

Conclusion: A Calculated Risk with High Reward

Emmet Sheehan represents a compelling waiver wire target for fantasy baseball managers. His successful return from Tommy John surgery, coupled with improvements in his pitching arsenal – particularly his changeup – positions him for a potentially impactful 2025 season. While ownership percentages are rising, he remains available in a significant number of leagues, offering a window of opportunity for proactive managers.

The Dodgers’ rotation situation and the team’s commitment to player development further enhance Sheehan’s outlook. While other prospects like Chase Burns also warrant consideration, Sheehan’s MLB experience and demonstrated ability provide a degree of stability that could translate into immediate fantasy production. Acquiring Sheehan is a calculated risk, but one with the potential for a substantial reward. His trajectory suggests he’s not just a temporary fill-in, but a pitcher poised to become a valuable asset for years to come.