Fantasy baseball: Target these undervalued players as All-Star break approaches

With the All-Star break approaching, it is crunch time in fantasy baseball.The first half is nearly in the books, and if you’re in the middle of your roto standings, clinging to a playoff spot, or trying to claw your way into one, now is the time to get aggressive.

With most waiver wires barren of impact talent, smart managers know this is when trades win fantasy championships.The key? Target undervalued players and swing trades that strengthen your roster for the second-half grind.The best trades aren’t always about making a big splash.

Oftentimes, they’re about identifying sneaky value where others don’t see it.Two infielders who stand out right now are Jeremy Peña and Marcus Semien — players whose numbers (and upside) significantly outweigh their current fantasy market value.Let’s start with Peña.The Astros shortstop is quietly having an elite season, but you wouldn’t know it from the lack of buzz around his name.

Peña is batting .324 with nine homers and 14 stolen bases — making him one of the most productive shortstops in all of fantasy baseball.He offers a rare blend of average, power, and speed, but for some reason, managers continue to overlook him.That is your opportunity.

Peña may not be a textbook “buy-low” since he is producing at a high level, but he is routinely undervalued.You might be able to flip a strong starting pitcher for him straight up, especially if your trade partner is desperate for arms.

Alternatively, consider offering a two-for-one package — a solid but unspectacular middle infielder paired with a mid-rotation starter — and see if you can pry Peña loose.Then there is Semien, whose first half has been, well, ugly.After a dismal finish to 2024, he stumbled out of the gate this season, leading many to jump ship.

But Semien is showing signs of life — and then some.Over his past 12 games, he is slashing .429/.500/.786 with four homers and three steals.

That isn’t just a hot streak, that’s vintage Semi...