Prediction of MLP 2nd Waiver Wire Period: As Major League Pickleball’s second waiver wire period approaches, the anticipation is building. The recent trade of Blaine Hovenier from the LA Mad Drops to the Las Vegas Night Owls for Anderson Scarpa and cash considerations set the stage for a fantastic set of moves.
The Implications of the Trade
For the LA Mad Drops, who are scheduled to play next on October 14th, the assumption is they expect Thomas Wilson to return by then. Scarpa, likely to be dropped in the Premier Level waivers on Thursday, will become eligible for the Challenger Level waivers on Friday. Meanwhile, the Night Owls made a proactive move by acquiring Hovenier, whose status with the Mad Drops had been uncertain. This trade suggests that Hovenier was more than just a substitute for an injured player; he was a valuable asset ripe for trading.
Waiver Wire Preview
- Premier Level Waivers: Thursday, 8/8 – Noon
- Challenger Level Waivers: Friday, 8/9 – Noon
Expect minimal movement in the Premier Level, as the teams are likely to maintain their current rosters. The real action will be at the Challenger Level.
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Teams to Watch in the Challenger Level Waivers
1. California Black Bears
The Black Bears are struggling, anchored by a series of underwhelming performances. Rafa Hewett, their first-round draft pick, has a disappointing 10-18 record. Susannah Barr picked up in the last waiver period, mirrors this struggle with a 5-9 record. The duo of Barr and Amanda Hendry is 2-5 with a -17 point differential. With only nine matches left and a dire need for a winning streak, the Black Bears are likely to make significant roster changes, potentially adding a male and female player.
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2. Florida Smash
Despite being in ninth place, the Smash have a glimmer of hope. They have a slightly better points-per-match ratio than the Black Bears and more matches left to play. With key players like Travis Rettenmaier and Martina Frantova underperforming, the Smash are expected to pick up a female player in the first round of the waiver period to boost their chances.
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3. Bay Area Breakers
After a strong start, the Bay Area Breakers have plummeted to eighth place. Key players like Collin Shick and DJ Young have struggled significantly. With 13 matches played and 10 remaining, the Breakers face a tough decision: stay the course or revamp the team again. The prediction is that they will pick up a male player in the first round of the waiver period to strengthen their lineup.
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Potential Additions
Here are some players who might be picked up:
Men
- Patrick Kawka
- Martin Emmrich
- Roscoe Bellamy
- Chris Haworth
- Grayson Goldin
- AJ Koller
- Robert Slutsky
- Michael Loyd
Women
- Emily Cederquist
- Rachel Rettger
- Christine Maddox
- Liz Truluck
- Alex Walker
- Michelle Esquivel
- Dominique Schaefer
- Cass Hoag
As the second waiver wire period begins, the dynamics of the teams are set to change, adding excitement to the Major League Pickleball season.
News in Brief: Prediction of MLP 2nd Waiver Wire Period
Major League Pickleball’s second waiver wire period, starting August 8, 2024, promises significant roster changes. The LA Mad Drops traded Blaine Hovenier to the Las Vegas Night Owls for Anderson Scarpa and cash considerations, aiming to strengthen their lineup before their October 14th match. Scarpa is expected to be waived and re-enter the Challenger Level.
The California Black Bears, currently last, may overhaul their team, adding both male and female players. The Florida Smash, seeking improvement, is likely to pick up a female player. The Bay Area Breakers, struggling after a strong start, are predicted to add a male player. Key available players include Patrick Kawka, Emily Cederquist, and Michelle Esquivel.
