As the fantasy baseball season passes its midpoint and approaches the All-Star break, fantasy managers should remain focused on roster improvements, particularly on the pitching front. Several arms are presenting strong pickup opportunities for the stretch run.

Griffin Jax, RP/SP for the Tampa Bay Rays, has unexpectedly emerged as a viable fantasy starter. Despite a $16 LABR draft-day price, Jax's elite whiff rate on his sweeper and retained fastball velocity have made him a top-25 pitcher over his last five starts. He faces the Yankees and Mariners this week.

Landen Roupp, SP of the San Francisco Giants, is still a strong consideration despite a recent poor outing. His improved sinker and the favorable pitching environment at Oracle Park position him for a better second half. Roupp is set to start against the Blue Jays and Rockies. Logan Henderson, SP for the Milwaukee Brewers, is anticipated to return from injury. His impressive strikeout rate and ERA since his debut, coupled with other Brewers starters' injury issues, make him a stash candidate, even with a likely pitch count limit against the Cardinals.

For deeper leagues, Tyler Wells of the Baltimore Orioles could seize the closer role after Ryan Helsley's injury, offering save opportunities. In the deepest leagues, Charlie Condon of the Rockies warrants consideration due to his exceptional minor league performance, and Josh Kuroda-Grauer of the Athletics offers a contact-hitting option for infield-needy teams.