One of the biggest problems faced when looking at shallow leagues is trading. The strong starting rosters of all clubs makes trading a very difficult process and in your particular case the “inactive players” in your league further compounds the problem. I believe your best bet is to look to the waiver wire for your options.

The two names that definitely stand out on your list are Beckham and Lopez. Both have struggled in the first half but are historically solid options at second base. Beckham went 2-for-3 with his fourth homer Thursday and looks to be heating up. Lopez has struggled, but don’t forget that just last year he managed 25 long balls and 96 RBI. He is also rumoured to be on the move with the Phillies being the suitors. A move to that park and the supporting offense could be huge for Lopez.

Bourn is what he is and his value hasn’t changed substantially this season. He currently has 28 thefts, has scored 51 runs and is sporting a .262 BA. If you have the need for speed, he is a solid player.

You are one of the many Fantasy players that got hurt badly by Boston’s West Coast follies this week. Losing Pedroia is going to hurt so I’d keep my eyes open for a 2B type, but would imagine it is probably very thin on the waiver wire at that slot. For the most part, I like your team. You have a good balance of speed and power on offense, but I do agree that your pitching could use a few tweaks.

I need guidance on how to improve upon my standings and become master of my H2H, 20-team league, which uses 23 players maximun, daily. Currently, I’m in the upper middle on offense, but am lower than lowest for all pitching.

Right now you have a situation where I believe you’d have some serious problems getting value back for Greinke. He is struggling right now (4.06 ERA, with 86 hits allowed in 80 IP). Obviously, this is miles from the standards he set for himself last season. His 1-8 record isn’t going to net you very good returns at this stage of the game.