Thursday’s eight-game slate marks the start of a few exciting series, including the Reds hosting the Cubs and the Indians facing the Twins.
Read MoreMLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 7/25/2019
Not much action to speak of across the majors Thursday night with only six games making up the main slate in DFS. With some terrible starting pitching options, it might be best to just load up on hitters for your entry.
Read MoreMLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 6/19/2019
There are a lot of weather situations to keep an eye on Wednesday, but we tentatively have 10 games making up the main evening slate in DFS.
Read MoreMLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 5/30/2019
Thursday’s seven-game evening slate in DFS has the potential for plenty of offense despite the limited schedule. While quality pitching options aren’t quite as bountiful, there are still a few who could provide a stellar stat line.
Read MoreMLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 8/15/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
August special! Use Code MCMLB50 at checkout
Although 10 games make up the main slate Wednesday in DFS, the night is generally short on elite starting pitching options. It could lead to several high-scoring games. Sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.
STARTING PITCHERS
Shane Bieber vs. Cincinnati Reds
Stadium – Great American Ball Park
FanDuel = $7,900
DraftKings = $8,300
Bieber’s ERA doesn’t stand out at 4.24, but his 3.02 FIP indicates he has pitched well in his first stint in the majors. Opponents have a .368 BABIP against him, so expect his ERA to improve as that number starts to normalize. He’s only allowed six home runs across 63.2 innings and has provided value in the strikeout department with a 9.3 K/9. The Reds have only averaged 2.8 runs over their last 10 games and have struggled more against right-handed pitching this season, leaving Bieber with significant upside Wednesday.
Tyler Anderson vs. Houston Astros
Stadium – Minute Maid Park
FanDuel = $7,000
DraftKings = $8,400
Anderson was great in his last start against a potent Dodgers lineup, giving up only one run and recording six strikeouts over six innings. He’s now allowed two earned runs or fewer in six of his last eight starts, helping lower his ERA to 3.94 overall. He’s not a big strikeout pitcher with an 8.3 K/9, but his 1.20 WHIP would be the best mark of his career. Although Carlos Correa is back, the Astros are still missing two key bats from their lineup in Jose Altuve and George Springer. The Astros have only averaged 3.7 runs across their last 10 games and that includes one contest where they scored 14 runs. Anderson might be worth the risk in tournament play.
CATCHER/FIRST BASE
Freddie Freeman vs. Jose Urena, Miami Marlins
Stadium – SunTrust Park
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $5,100
Although his performance has been overshadowed by the red-hot Ronald Acuna Jr., Freeman has two hits and a home run in both of the last two games against the Marlins. He’s batting .373 over his last 15 contests, recording eight RBI and 11 runs scored during that stretch. Look for another big game from him Wednesday as he is also 8-for-20 (.400) with two home runs and two doubles in his career against Urena.
Danny Jansen vs. Jorge Lopez, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $2,100
DraftKings = $3,600
The Blue Jays still haven’t called up Vladimir Guerrero Jr., but Jansen is getting his first crack at the majors. He was hitting well in Triple-A, posting a .275 average, .390 OBP and 12 home runs. He’s wasted no time since being recalled, going 3-for-7 with a homer in two games. Lopez has pitched out of the bullpen for the Brewers and their Triple-A affiliate this year and didn’t pitch well at either level, making Jansen a cheap option to target.
Others to consider: Yonder Alonso (first base) and Ji-Man Choi (first base)
SECOND BASE
Jason Kipnis vs. Robert Stephenson, Cincinnati Reds
Stadium – Great American Ball Park
FanDuel = $3,400
DraftKings = $4,200
Kipnis’ multi-hit streak ended at three games Tuesday, but he salvaged the evening by walking and stealing a base. He gets to face another subpar pitcher in Stephenson, who has a 5.16 ERA and a 1.61 WHIP in his major league career. Kipnis’ price is climbing, but he’s still a viable option to consider.
Neil Walker vs. Jake Faria, Tampa Bay Rays
Stadium – Yankee Stadium
FanDuel = $2,400
DraftKings = $3,600
Faria has made two appearances out of the bullpen after a lengthy stint on the DL, allowing one run over 6.2 innings. He’ll return to the rotation Wednesday, a role he struggled in before getting hurt. Walker has had a renaissance at the plate, batting .310 with three home runs in his last 18 games. He’s been a much better hitter against righties this year, as well, making him someone to consider at his cheap price in tournament play.
Others to consider: Ozzie Albies and Joey Wendle
THIRD BASE
Jose Ramirez vs. Robert Stephenson, Cincinnati Reds
Stadium – Great American Ball Park
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $6,000
Ramirez has destroyed the Reds in the first two games of this series, going 6-for-10 with two home runs, five RBI, and five runs scored. He now has three straight multi-hit performances, boosting his average up to .305 for the season to go along with 36 homers and 27 steals. With his 195 wRC+ against righties this year, this could be another long night for the Stephenson and the Reds.
Justin Turner vs. Derek Holland, San Francisco Giants
Stadium – Dodger Stadium
FanDuel = $3,600
DraftKings = $4,200
Turner went 3-for-4 with three doubles Tuesday, marking the fifth multi-hit game in his last six contests. He’s still trying to get things going in the home run department, but he’s batting .293 with a .384 OBP and has almost as many walks (24) as he does strikeouts (27). He also has a 191 wRC+ against lefties, giving him an excellent opportunity to shine against Holland.
Others to consider: Anthony Rendon and Miguel Andujar
SHORTSTOP
Didi Gregorius vs. Jake Faria, Tampa Bay Rays
Stadium – Yankee Stadium
FanDuel = $4,000
DraftKings = $4,900
Gregorius is in the midst of another productive homestand, going 8-for-23 (.348) over the last six games. It should come as no surprise because although he’s batting just .236 with seven homers on the road, he is batting .302 with 14 home runs at Yankee Stadium. Adding to his appeal against Faria is that Gregorius has a .348 wOBA against right-handers this year.
Willy Adames vs. Luis Cessa, New York Yankees
Stadium – Yankee Stadium
FanDuel = $2,900
DraftKings = $4,100
Adames has cemented himself as the everyday shortstop for the rest of the season with Adeiny Hechavarria now with the Pirates. He’s taken full advantage of his opportunity, batting .410 with three home runs and four steals in August. Cessa doesn’t have an overwhelming arsenal with a career 6.4 K/9 in the majors, so don’t be surprised if Adames continues to swing a hot bat in this contest.
Others to consider: Manny Machado and Freddy Galvis
OUTFIELD
Ronald Acuna Jr. vs. Jose Urena, Miami Marlins
Stadium – SunTrust Park
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $5,700
At this point, you almost have to play Acuna no matter his price. He’s hitting insanely well, going 16-for-34 (.471) with eight home runs in his last eight games. Add in 15 RBI and 13 runs scored during that stretch and he’s provided tremendous value in DFS. Urena has allowed at least four runs in four of his last five starts and only has a 7.3 K/9 this year, which could prove troublesome against Acuna.
Mallex Smith vs. Luis Cessa, New York Yankees
Stadium – Yankee Stadium
FanDuel = $2,800
DraftKings = $4,800
Smith if 0-for-7 in his last two games, but he’s still batting .364 over his last 24 contests. He’s not a home run hitter, but he did chip in six doubles and four triples during that stretch. He’s a terror on the base paths, too, recording nine steals over that time frame. Smith isn’t cheap on DraftKings, but the price might be right to take a chance on him if you are playing on FanDuel.
Melky Cabrera vs. Robert Stephenson, Cincinnati Reds
Stadium – Great American Ball Park
FanDuel = $2,700
DraftKings = $3,900
Cabrera only has 142 plate appearances this season and he hasn’t exactly thrived with a .266 average and two home runs. He’s not much more than a journeyman outfielder at this stage of his career, but he’s still someone who can provide value in the right matchup. He’s 7-for-12 over his last three games and could be one of the cheaper players to target for an Indians stack.
Others to consider: Justin Upton and Michael Brantley
MLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 8/8/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
August special! Use Code MCMLB50 at checkout
Wednesday brings 14 games across the majors, but only nine of them make up the main evening slate in DFS. Sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.
STARTING PITCHERS
Jose Quintana vs. Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $8,200
DraftKings = $8,300
Quintana has had control problems this season, issuing a career-high 4.1 BB/9. His 4.12 ERA isn’t terrible, but it could be worse considering his 4.60 FIP and 1.38 WHIP. He has pitched better of late, allowing two runs or fewer in four of his last five starts. Of those four starts, three of them came against bad lineups in the Tigers, Giants, and Padres. He gets another great matchup Wednesday against a Royals squad that has scored the fewest runs (414) in baseball, giving him an excellent opportunity to continue his recent run of success.
Jhoulys Chacin vs. San Diego Padres
Stadium – Miller Park
FanDuel = $8,000
DraftKings = $7,500
Chacin was hammered in his last start against the Dodgers, allowing nine runs (eight earned) and three home runs across 4.1 innings. The Dodgers have one of the best lineups in the National League, though, so don’t read too much into one bad outing. He had allowed two runs or fewer in five of his six previous starts. Don’t count on him for a lot of strikeouts with his 7.2 K/9, but he’s only allowed 13 home runs across 132 innings. The Padres have the second-lowest OPS against right-handed pitchers (.653), setting up Chacin nicely for a rebound performance.
CATCHER/FIRST BASE
Matt Carpenter vs. Trevor Richards, Miami Marlins
Stadium – Marlins Park
FanDuel = $4,500
DraftKings = $5,400
Carpenter went deep again Tuesday, marking his fourth home run in the last five games. If it wasn’t for such a horrible start, Carpenter could have one of the better cases for NL MVP. Even with his early struggles, he’s still batting .282 with a .393 OBP and 30 home runs. Keeping riding his hot bat against Richards and his 1.39 WHIP.
Yasmani Grandal vs. Mike Fiers, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
FanDuel = $2,800
DraftKings = $4,300
The A’s are making a push for the playoffs and have added a few players for the stretch run. One of the guys they brought in was Fiers, who will be making his first start since being acquired from the Tigers. His 3.48 ERA looks nice, but his 4.65 FIP indicates he is not pitching that well. He’s also had problems keeping hitters inside the park with a 1.5 HR/9. The switch-hitting Grandal has had very little success against lefties, but he has a .382 wOBA against right-handed pitching.
Others to consider: Anthony Rizzo (first base) and Jake Bauers (first base)
SECOND BASE
Javier Baez vs. Heath Fillmyer, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $5,700
Baez is having a great season, in general, but he’s been even hotter of late by hitting .378 with six homers and five doubles over his last 11 games. His .346 BABIP this season looks high, but it’s actually almost in line with his .336 career mark. Fillmyer has a 4.83 FIP and a 1.42 WHIP with the Royals and posted 5.75 ERA and a 1.63 WHIP at Triple-A, making Baez an extremely appealing option.
Neil Walker vs. Lucas Giolito, Chicago White Sox
Stadium – Guaranteed Rate Field
FanDuel = $2,500
DraftKings = $3,800
Walker has struggled with the Yankees, often finding himself on the bench due to the stellar play of Gleyber Torres and Miguel Andujar. Playing time has opened up for him lately with Aaron Judge on the DL as he now starts most games against right-handed pitchers. He’s taken advantage of his opportunity, batting .364 with a home run and a double of his last 41 plate appearances. At this cheap price, he’s someone to consider against Giolito based on his 1.49 WHIP.
Others to consider: Joey Wendle and Jonathan Villar
THIRD BASE
Jose Ramirez vs. Jake Odorizzi, Minnesota Twins
Stadium – Progressive Field
FanDuel = $5,300
DraftKings = $6,000
Ramirez has already tied or surpassed his previous career-highs in home runs, RBI, and stolen bases this season. His batting average hasn’t suffered at the expense of his power at .297 and he actually has more walks (74) than strikeouts (55). In three previous starts against the Indians this season, Odorizzi has allowed 16 runs (15 earned) across 13.2 innings. Look for them to have another big night Wednesday with Ramirez likely right in the middle of all the action.
Johan Camargo vs. Tommy Milone, Washington Nationals
Stadium – Nationals Park
FanDuel = $3,200
DraftKings = $4,100
With the Nationals thin at starting pitcher, they have turned to the journeyman Milone to fill a spot in their rotation. Milone has had some success during his minor league career, but he has a 4.35 ERA and a 1.33 WHIP over his career in the majors. Camargo has excelled with a .389 wOBA against lefties this year, making him a great option if you don’t want to pay up for Ramirez.
Others to consider: Miguel Andujar and Mike Moustakas
SHORTSTOP
Didi Gregorius vs. Lucas Giolito, Chicago White Sox
Stadium – Guaranteed Rate Field
FanDuel = $4,000
DraftKings = $5,000
One of the deepest lineups in baseball heading into the season, the Yankees really need Gregorius to be productive right now with Judge and Gary Sanchez both sidelined. While his numbers aren’t off the charts, he is batting .279 with two home runs, seven RBI and eight runs scored across 11 games since Judge hit the DL. He has a .348 wOBA against righties and provides significant upside against the underwhelming Giolito.
Aledmys Diaz vs. Brian Johnson, Boston Red Sox
Stadium – Rogers Centre
FanDuel = $3,300
DraftKings = $3,900
Diaz came through with another hit Tuesday to extend his hitting streak to five games. Although he broke a streak of five straight games with at least one run scored, Diaz is locked into significant playing time with Lourdes Gurriel on the DL. Johnson has posted a 3.74 ERA for the Red Sox, but that’s not likely going to hold up based on his 1.42 WHIP. At this cheap price on both sites, Diaz could provide plenty of value.
Others to consider: Francisco Lindor and Xander Bogaerts
OUTFIELD
J.D. Martinez vs. Mike Hauschild, Toronto Blue Jays
Stadium – Rogers Centre
FanDuel = $4,900
DraftKings = $5,500
Martinez is flat out amazing. He’s given the Red Sox everything they could have hoped for after signing him to a big contract, batting .328 with 34 home runs and 97 RBI. With all the talented hitters around him, Martinez gets plenty of opportunities to rack up counting stats. The Red Sox are likely going to be a popular stack against Hauschild based on his 4.88 ERA and 1.55 WHIP at Triple-A this year.
Mallex Smith vs. Andrew Cashner, Baltimore Orioles
Stadium – Tropicana Field
FanDuel = $3,100
DraftKings = $4,700
When the Rays acquired Tommy Pham and Austin Meadows, it looked like Smith might be in line for a smaller role. However, the Rays sent Meadows directly to Triple-A and Pham quickly landed on the DL with a foot injury. Smith is getting all the playing time he can handle as a result and is hot right now, going 11-for-19 with six walks over his last seven games. He’s a terror when he’s on base that much, resulting in five steals over that stretch. Cashner struggles to keep runners off base with his 1.56 WHIP, making Smith a viable option despite his lack of power.
Yasiel Puig vs. Mike Fiers, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
FanDuel = $2,600
DraftKings = $4,400
The ability to use the DH in this series helps the Dodgers free up a bit of a logjam they have created for their lineup after adding Manny Machado and Brian Dozier. It also gives the hitters in the lineup added opportunities for counting stats without the pitcher being required to hit. Puig has at least two hits in three of his last four games and while he doesn’t have the platoon advantage against Fiers, he actually has a higher wOBA against righties (.382) than he does lefties (.283).
Others to consider: Randal Grichuk and Jackie Bradley Jr.
MLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 7/20/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
July special! Use Code MCMLB50 at checkout
Friday brings the first packed schedule in baseball since the All-Star break, leaving plenty of options to choose from in DFS. Sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.
STARTING PITCHERS
Trevor Bauer vs. Texas Rangers
Stadium – Globe Life Park in Arlington
FanDuel = $12,200
DraftKings = $13,600
Bauer was selected to be an All-Star for the first time in his career, but he did not appear in the game because he last pitched Sunday. He was fantastic in the first half, posting a 2.24 ERA, 2.23 FIP, and a 1.08 WHIP. Not only does he have an 11.6 K/9, but he’s allowed just six home runs in 136.1 innings. He was on top of his game heading into the break, allowing seven runs (six earned) and recording 54 strikeouts across 42.2 innings in his last six starts. The Rangers have struck out the second-most times (916) in baseball this season and didn’t do much against Bauer in their first meeting, scoring two runs and striking out 11 times over 6.2 innings.
Kyle Gibson vs. Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $8,600
DraftKings = $8,600
The Twins disappointing start might turn them into sellers as we approach the trade deadline, but Gibson has been one of their few bright spots. After posting underwhelming numbers the last two seasons, he has a 3.42 ERA this year. His FIP is improved as well at 3.79 in large part because of his 1.23 WHIP, which is significantly lower than his 1.41 career mark. He also has an 8.9 K/9 after never posting a K/9 higher than 6.9 previously in his career. This is a great matchup against a Royals team that has scored the fewest runs (337) in baseball. Gibson had no trouble handling them in their first meeting when he recorded eight strikeouts across seven shutout innings.
CATCHER/FIRST BASE
Steve Pearce vs. Matthew Boyd, Detroit Tigers
Stadium – Comerica Park
FanDuel = $3,300
DraftKings = $4,000
The Red Sox couldn’t have asked for a better start to Pearce’s tenure with the team as he is 11-for-26 (.423) with a home run and four doubles in 10 games. He has a .433 wOBA against lefties this season, which is nothing new since he has a .364 wOBA against them for his career. Boyd pitched well to start the season for the Tigers, but he has allowed at least five runs in four of his last five outings.
Yan Gomes vs. Martin Perez, Texas Rangers
Stadium – Globe Life Park in Arlington
FanDuel = $2,300
DraftKings = $4,300
The Indians appear to be confident enough in Gomes moving forward that they traded top catching prospect Francisco Mejia to the Padres on Thursday. Gomes’ offensive numbers aren’t flashy, but he has a .422 wOBA against left-handed pitchers this season. Perez has a tendency to give up plenty of runs in large part due to his 1.47 career WHIP.
Others to consider: Paul Goldschmidt (first base) and Brandon Belt (first base)
SECOND BASE
Brian Dozier vs. Danny Duffy, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $3,700
DraftKings = $4,700
Dozier is starting to heat up as he is 13-for-40 (.325) with four home runs and three doubles in his last 10 games. He’s shown a trend of being a better hitter in the second half of the season and could be in for a strong finish, although it might not be as a member of the Twins. Duffy gives left-handed hitters plenty of problems, but he’s allowed a .345 wOBA to righties.
Joey Wendle vs. Dan Straily, Miami Marlins
Stadium – Tropicana Field
FanDuel = $2,400
DraftKings = $4,000
Speaking of hot hitters, Wendle is 17-for-42 (.405) with two home runs and eight RBI in July. He tends to sit against lefties, but he’s someone to target against righties. Straily’s 4.29 ERA doesn’t look terrible, but his 5.43 FIP indicates he has been a bit lucky. He allows plenty of base runners with a 1.35 WHIP despite opponents posting just a .250 BABIP against him, so his numbers could be even worse.
Others to consider: Jed Lowrie and Dee Gordon
THIRD BASE
Jose Ramirez vs. Martin Perez, Texas Rangers
Stadium – Globe Life Park in Arlington
FanDuel = $4,800
DraftKings = $5,800
Stacking against Perez will likely be a popular strategy Friday. Not only does he allow a lot of hitters to reach base, but he’s not a strikeout pitcher with just a 5.4 K/9 for his career. Ramirez is making a case for AL MVP honors this season with his power, speed and ability to hit for a high average. Although he’s expensive, he’s one of the top options available at any position.
Kyle Seager vs. James Shields, Chicago White Sox
Stadium – Safeco Field
FanDuel = $3,000
DraftKings = $3,300
Seager is only batting .233 this season in large part because of his career-high 21.9% strikeout rate and career-low 5.5% walk rate. He’s still hitting for power, though, with 16 home runs and 23 doubles, making him a viable cheap option with upside in tournament play. He’s also 8-for-22 (.364) with three homers in his career against Shields.
Others to consider: Justin Turner and Colin Moran
SHORTSTOP
Xander Bogaerts vs. Matthew Boyd, Detroit Tigers
Stadium – Comerica Park
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $5,000
Bogaerts has certainly regained his power stroke, posting a .535 slugging percentage after a disappointing .403 mark last year. He also has 64 RBI in a loaded Red Sox lineup and should easily surpass his career-high of 89 RBI as long as he stays healthy. The Red Sox should be another popular stack Friday with Bogaerts someone to key in on at shortstop.
Jorge Polanco vs. Danny Duffy, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $3,000
DraftKings = $3,800
Polanco has yet to leave the yard since returning from suspension, but he’s flashed his speed on the base paths again with three steals in only 14 games. It’s hard to read too much into 60 plate appearances, but his walk rate has been much improved at 11.7%. His upside isn’t close to that of Bogaerts, but he can still provide value if you need to save money at shortstop.
Others to consider: Francisco Lindor and Tim Anderson
OUTFIELD
J.D. Martinez vs. Matthew Boyd, Detroit Tigers
Stadium – Comerica Park
FanDuel = $4,700
DraftKings = $5,300
It seemed nearly impossible for Martinez to keep up the torrid pace he was on as a member of the Diamondbacks last year, but he’s been just as good since joining the Red Sox. His homer rate isn’t as high, but he’s not exactly struggling with 29 dingers in 92 games. He had 104 RBI last year and is going to blow by that with 80 RBI this season already. He also has a .393 wOBA against lefties, so expect him to give Boyd plenty of problems.
Matt Kemp vs. Wade Miley, Milwaukee Brewers
Stadium – Miller Park
FanDuel = $3,400
DraftKings = $4,000
The Brewers sure could use another starting pitcher. They will continue to try and get by with Miley in the rotation for now, who has been injured for most of the season. Miley had a 5.61 ERA and a 1.73 WHIP with the Orioles last year and usually allows a lot of base runners with a 1.40 career WHIP. Kemp has a .402 wOBA against lefties this year, making him a great option at a reasonable price on both sites.
Steven Duggar vs. Edwin Jackson, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
FanDuel = $2,400
DraftKings = $3,600
Jackson continues to find his way onto a major league roster, making four starts for an Athletics team that has seen their rotation decimated by injuries. He’s posted a 2.59 ERA, but it’s hard to have much confidence in a journeyman pitcher who has finished with an ERA of at least 5.21 in both of the last two seasons. The left-handed Duggar should be in the lineup Friday and won’t cost much, leaving him as someone to consider in tournament play.
Others to consider: Rhys Hoskins and David Peralta
MLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 7/13/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
July special! Use Code MCMLB50 at checkout
All 15 games Friday start in the evening, leaving one of the last big slates in DFS before the All-Star break. Sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.
STARTING PITCHERS
Rick Porcello vs. Toronto Blue Jays
Stadium – Fenway Park
FanDuel = $9,600
DraftKings = $9,800
Porcello already has 11 wins for the Red Sox, matching his total from all of 2017. Having a stellar lineup behind him certainly helps, but he’s also made significant improvements. He had a 1.40 WHIP and a 1.7 HR/9 last year, but this season he has a 1.17 WHIP and a 0.9 HR/9. His 3.58 ERA is supported by a 3.48 FIP and a career-high 22.7% strikeout rate. He also pitches deep into games, logging at least six innings in all but four starts. The Blue Jays have a .749 OPS at home this year, but only a .703 OPS on the road. Porcello has already faced them twice this season, allowing six runs (five earned) and recording 14 strikeouts across 13.2 innings. On a night that is lacking many top-tier pitchers, Porcello is one of the best options available.
Brad Keller vs. Chicago White Sox
Stadium – Guaranteed Rate Field
FanDuel = $6,100
DraftKings = $6,400
The Royals pitching staff has been a mess this season as their 5.35 team ERA is worst in the majors. Keller has been one of their few bright spots, though, recording a 2.52 ERA, 3.38 FIP and a 1.25 WHIP in 28 appearances, seven of which were starts. He doesn’t have much strikeout upside with a 5.2 K/9, but he’s only allowed one home run in 60.2 innings. He allowed 0.5 HR/9 during his career in the minors, so look for this to be a trend that continues. The White Sox have scored the sixth-fewest runs (365) in baseball and lost one of their hottest hitters to injury in Avisail Garcia, leaving Keller as a cheap option to consider in tournament play.
CATCHER/FIRST BASE
Brandon Belt vs. Edwin Jackson, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – AT&T Park
FanDuel = $3,600
DraftKings = $4,400
Jackson continues to find a way to work himself into a major league rotation. He’s made three starts since joining the Athletics, giving up just six runs (five earned) in 18.1 innings. It’s hard to have much confidence in him, though, since he has finished with an ERA of 5.21 or higher in three of the last four years. Belt has a .410 wOBA against right-handed pitching this season, so don’t be surprised if he gives Jackson trouble.
Carlos Santana vs. Wei-Yin Chen, Miami Marlins
Stadium – Marlins Park
FanDuel = $3,000
DraftKings = $4,000
Chen has been awful with a 6.14 ERA. His FIP is a little better at 5.09, but it’s still the highest of his career. He hasn’t been able to keep runners off base with a 1.55 WHIP and he has already allowed 11 homers in 66 innings. Strikeouts have been hard to come by for him as well with a 6.7 K/9. Santana hasn’t exactly thrived in his first season with the Phillies, either, but he’s priced low enough to be a viable option for your entry.
Others to consider: Wilson Ramos (catcher) and Yonder Alonso (first base)
SECOND BASE
Ozzie Albies vs. Zack Godley, Arizona Diamondbacks
Stadium – SunTrust Park
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $5,200
Albies is red hot again as he is 38-for-91 (.418) with four home runs, 13 RBI and 20 runs scored in his last 20 games. He’s slowed down from the torrid home run pace he was on earlier this season, but it’s very encouraging to see him adjust and come out of the slump he was mired in from the middle of May through the middle of June. Godley allows a ton of batters to reach base with a 1.56 WHIP, so look for Albies to continue his hot streak Friday.
Rougned Odor vs. Alex Cobb, Baltimore Orioles
Stadium – Oriole Park at Camden Yards
FanDuel = $3,000
DraftKings = $4,500
Odor has finally shown signs of life again, going 14-for-44 (.318) with three home runs in his last 12 games. His overall average has improved to .242 as a result, but he only has six home runs. He has a lot of catching up to do if he is going to hit at least 30 homers for the third straight season. Cobb has a 1.62 WHIP and a 1.7 HR/9 in his first season with the Orioles, making Odor an excellent option at a reduced price, especially on FanDuel.
Others to consider: Dee Gordon and Jonathan Schoop
THIRD BASE
Jose Ramirez vs. Domingo German, New York Yankees
Stadium – Progressive Field
FanDuel = $4,600
DraftKings = $5,800
Ramirez homered against Thursday and has four home runs in his last three games. The fact that it came off of Luis Severino was especially impressive since Severino has only allowed 0.7 HR/9. He’ll face a much easier opponent in German on Friday, who has had problems keeping hitters inside the park with a 1.7 HR/9.
Mike Moustakas vs. James Shields, Chicago White Sox
Stadium – Guaranteed Rate Field
FanDuel = $3,300
DraftKings = $4,600
The Royals have already started to trade off some veterans and it makes sense that they look to move Moustakas as well. His batting average has regressed from .272 last season to .256 this year, but he’s still provided plenty of power with 19 home runs. Even though the Royals don’t score much, he still has 58 RBI. Lefties give him trouble, but he has a .358 wOBA against right-handed pitchers.
Others to consider: Nolan Arenado and Travis Shaw
SHORTSTOP
Trevor Story vs. Christian Bergman, Seattle Mariners
Stadium – Coors Field
FanDuel = $4,300
DraftKings = $5,300
Bergman made one start for the Mariners back in May but has mostly pitched in the minors this season. The fact that he had a 4.78 ERA and a 1.45 WHIP at Triple-A doesn’t really bode well for his chances pitching at Coors Field on Friday. Story mashes at home and is one of several Rockies’ hitters to target for your entry.
Elvis Andrus vs. Alex Cobb, Baltimore Orioles
Stadium – Oriole Park at Camden Yards
FanDuel = $3,000
DraftKings = $4,100
Andrus only has 153 plate appearances this season due to injury, but he’s been a disappointment with just two home runs and one stolen base. After attempting 35 steals last year, he only has two attempts this season. His strikeout rate is down and his .281 BABIP is well below his .313 career mark, so he does have room for improvement in the second half. Considering Cobb’s struggles, this might be just what he needs to get back on track.
Others to consider: Xander Bogaerts and Scott Kingery
OUTFIELD
Charlie Blackmon vs. Christian Bergman, Seattle Mariners
Stadium – Coors Field
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $5,500
Blackmon has historically hit about the same amount of home runs on the road as he has at home, but he has a career .343 batting average at Coors Field compared to .263 on the road. He also has a career .371 wOBA against righties, making him an outfielder worth paying up for versus Bergman.
Carlos Gonzalez vs. Christian Bergman, Seattle Mariners
Stadium – Coors Field
FanDuel = $3,400
DraftKings = $4,700
As we continue to target lefties against Bergman, Gonzalez presents another excellent option at a favorable price. He’s not nearly the hitter that he was in his prime, but he’s quietly batting .275 with 10 home runs in 73 games. He also has a .357 wOBA against right-handers.
Steven Duggar vs. Edwin Jackson, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – AT&T Park
FanDuel = $2,300
DraftKings = $3,700
Duggar only had four home runs in Triple-A this year before being called up, but he did slug 27 doubles to go along with a .354 OBP. He’s not likely to play much against left-handed pitching, but he should be in the lineup against the right-handed Jackson. He could be worth the gamble in tournament play based on the salary relief he can provide for your budget.
Others to consider: Mookie Betts and Christian Yelich
MLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 7/9/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
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STARTING PITCHERS
Jose Berrios vs. Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Target Field
FanDuel = $10,100
DraftKings = $12,100
Berrios has allowed five home runs in his last two starts and has had problems keeping hitters inside the park this season with a 1.3 HR/9. However, he still has a 3.54 ERA and a 3.39 FIP in large part because of his 1.00 WHIP. He had control issues when he began his career in the majors, but he’s thrown a first-pitch strike to 65.6% of the batters that he has faced and has a 2.0 BB/9 this year. He also has career highs in swinging-strike rate (11.4%) and K/9 (9.0). The Royals have hit the fewest home runs (70) and scored the fewest runs (310) in baseball, making Berrios one of the top pitching options.
Kyle Hendricks vs. San Francisco Giants
Stadium – AT&T Park
FanDuel = $7,000
DraftKings = $7,300
Hendricks has never finished with an ERA over 3.96 or a FIP over 3.88 in his career, but he has a 4.27 ERA and a 4.80 FIP this season. Both his 1.25 WHIP and 1.5 HR/9 would also be the highest marks of his career. He’s never been an overpowering pitcher, but he has just a 6.7 K/9. He’s allowed 13 runs over 13.1 innings in his last three starts, but he gave up only one run and recorded seven strikeouts over seven innings in his first start against the Giants this year. The Giants are in the bottom-third of the league in runs scored, so Hendricks is a viable option in tournament play despite his lack of strikeout potential.
CATCHER/FIRST BASE
Yuli Gurriel vs. Frankie Montas, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Minute Maid Park
FanDuel = $3,400
DraftKings = $4,700
Gurriel has only hit six home runs this season, but he has followed up his .299 average last year with a .303 mark. He hasn’t been completely devoid of power as he does have 22 doubles on his way to what could be his second-straight season with at least 40 doubles. He doesn’t walk much, but he also only has a 10.6% strikeout rate. Montas has allowed a lot of baserunners with a 1.47 WHIP, so he could be in trouble with Gurriel’s ability to make contact.
Wilson Ramos vs. Francisco Liriano, Detroit Tigers
Stadium – Tropicana Field
FanDuel = $3,100
DraftKing = $4,200
Ramos has been named to his second All-Star team in the last three seasons. He’s earned the honor to start for the AL by batting .289 with 12 home runs. The Rays have scored the fifth-fewest runs in baseball, that hasn’t stopped Ramos from recording 47 RBI. His .368 wOBA against lefties makes him a great option against Liriano.
Others to consider: Matt Adams (first base) and C.J. Cron (first base)
SECOND BASE
Max Muncy vs. Luis Perdomo, San Diego Padres
Stadium – Petco Park
FanDuel = $4,200
DraftKings = $5,200
Muncy finished a rough three-game set against the Angels 1-for-11 with six strikeouts. This might be just the matchup he needs to get back on track as Perdomo has followed up his 1.51 WHIP last year with a 2.19 WHIP in five starts this year. He has also allowed a .361 wOBA against lefties for his career. Of note, Muncy is only second base eligible on FanDuel as he is listed at first base and third base on DraftKings.
Eduardo Nunez vs. Mike Minor, Texas Rangers
Stadium – Fenway Park
FanDuel = $2,600
DraftKings = $3,700
The Rangers starting rotation has been a mess this season. Minor’s numbers aren’t great, but he’s been one of their more reliable pitchers with a 4.63 ERA and a 4.41 FIP. He only has a 1.20 WHIP, but he’s been hurt by allowing 1.4 HR/9. Minor has held lefties to a .308 wOBA, but righties have had more success with a .336 wOBA. Nunez won’t cost much, but he is a viable option to consider in tournament play if you need to save money at second base.
Others to consider: Brian Dozier and Daniel Robertson
THIRD BASE
Jose Ramirez vs. Anthony DeSclafani, Cincinnati Reds
Stadium – Progressive Field
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $5,700
Ramirez already has more steals (19) this year than he did in all of 2017 (17) and his 24 home runs put him only five behind last year’s mark. His batting average remains excellent at .292 and he has 54 walks compared to only 44 strikeouts. He has a lofty .433 wOBA against righties, making him a great option again Monday even at this expensive price.
Matt Duffy vs. Francisco Liriano, Detroit Tigers
Stadium – Tropicana Field
FanDuel = $3,200
DraftKings = $3,500
Liriano has dominated lefties this season by holding them to a .207 wOBA, but right-handed hitters have had plenty of success with a .343 wOBA. His ERA looks respectable at 4.03, but his 5.27 FIP indicates he is not having a good year. The Rays don’t exactly have a potent offense, but Duffy hits for a high average and has some upside Monday despite his lack of homers.
Others to consider: Alex Bregman and Colin Moran
SHORTSTOP
Xander Bogaerts vs. Mike Minor, Texas Rangers
Stadium – Fenway Park
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $5,000
Bogaerts entered Monday 6-for-12 with two home runs, two doubles, and 10 RBI in his last four games. Three of those contests came against the Royals terrible staff, but as already detailed, Minor hasn’t exactly pitched well either. Bogaerts has hit for a ton of power this season with a .520 slugging percentage and his batting average hasn’t suffered either at .281. He only has two stolen bases, but it’s hard to complain about the production he has provided.
Jorge Polanco vs. Danny Duffy, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Target Field
FanDuel = $2,900
DraftKings = $3,800
Duffy has been prone to horrendous starts this season, allowing at least five runs in seven of his 18 outings. The end result has been a 5.19 ERA that is supported by a 5.39 FIP. Until he makes major improvements on his 1.50 WHIP and 1.7 HR/9, continue to target hitters against Duffy in DFS. Polanco has only played in seven games this year due to suspension, but he could be one of several Twins to have a valuable performance.
Others to consider: Francisco Lindor and Chris Taylor
OUTFIELD
Mookie Betts vs. Mike Minor, Texas Rangers
Stadium – Fenway Park
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $6,100
Betts continues to swing a hot bat for the Red Sox as he is 23-for-64 (.359) with four home runs in his last 16 games. He only has six RBI during that stretch, but he scored 16 runs and had 12 walks compared to just eight strikeouts. His 212 wRC+ against lefties overall this year makes him a great option even though he will cost you a ton on both sites.
Juan Soto vs. Ivan Nova, Pittsburgh Pirates
Stadium – Nationals Park
FanDuel = $4,100
DraftKings = $4,800
Nova does a great job limiting walks, but he’s an average starting pitcher at best. He doesn’t have great stuff with just a 6.9 K/9, which is a big reason why he has also allowed 1.7 HR/9. He has allowed a wOBA of at least .361 against lefties in each of the last three seasons and is close to that mark again this year by allowing a .358 wOBA. Stacking lefties against him Monday could be a wise move, Soto included.
Kyle Tucker vs. Frankie Montas, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Minute Maid Park
FanDuel = $2,000
DraftKings = $4,000
Tucker had plenty of success at Triple-A this season before the Astros called him up, batting .306 with 14 home runs, 14 steals and a .371 OBP. He’s 1-for-7 in his first two games with the big club, but he has some potential Monday considering Montas has allowed a .361 wOBA against lefties. His price isn’t great on DraftKings, but at the minimum on FanDuel, he could be worth the risk in tournament play.
Others to consider: Christian Yelich and Joc Pederson
MLB Daily Fantasy Baseball Recommendations for 7/6/18
*Mike Barner — @rotomikebarner*
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Friday brings a lot of high-end pitching options across baseball, so finding the right bats for your entry could be the key to bringing home some cash. Sign up for our Newsletter and try our Playerlab tool, where you can filter the stats that matter the most and help build a winning entry on FanDuel and DraftKings.
STARTING PITCHERS
Chris Sale vs. Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $12,500
DraftKings = $14,000
Sale continues to blow hitters away as he has allowed four runs and recorded 54 strikeouts across 35 innings in his last five starts. Two of those starts were shutouts against the Mariners and the Yankees. He’s towards the top of the Cy Young discussion again this year with a 2.41 ERA, 2.38 FIP, and a 0.89 WHIP. Not only does he have a 12.7 K/9, but his 0.8 HR/9 would be his lowest mark since 2014. The Royals have scored the fewest runs (297) in baseball, so don’t hesitate to pay the premium necessary to get him into your entry.
Dereck Rodriguez vs. St. Louis Cardinals
Stadium – AT&T Park
FanDuel = $8,600
DraftKings = $7,700
Rodriguez had never pitched above Double-A before this year, but he pitched well in his first taste of action at Triple-A by posting a 3.40 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and a 9.5 K/9 prior to being called up. Although his WHIP has room for improvement at 1.32 since being recalled, he has a respectable 3.16 ERA and a 3.34 FIP. His strikeouts aren’t as high with an 8.0 K/9, but he has only issued nine walks in 37 innings. It took him a few starts to get acclimated, but he has allowed six runs across 25 innings in his last four starts. Three of those starts came against the Marlins and Padres, so he will be faced with a tougher task against the Cardinals. That being said, he’s still priced low enough to warrant consideration in tournament play if you want to go heavy with high-priced hitters.
CATCHER/FIRST BASE
Yasmani Grandal vs. Felix Pena, Los Angeles Angels
Stadium – Angel Stadium
FanDuel = $3,200
DraftKings = $3,900
After getting off to a great start, Grandal really struggled in May and June by hitting .181 or lower in both months. He’s shown signs that he is coming out of his slump as he is 7-for-10 with two doubles, a triple and a home run in his last four games. Although he’s a switch-hitter, he’s been much better against righties with a .367 wOBA. Pena is prone to allowing base runners as he had a 1.38 WHIP at Triple-A this year and has a 1.47 WHIP since being called up.
Yonder Alonso vs. Paul Blackburn, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Progressive Field
FanDuel = $2,900
DraftKings = $4,500
Blackburn shut out the Indians over 6.1 innings in his last start, but the Indians have hit much better at home this season. Alonso has similar averages at home and on the road, but he has two more home runs at Progressive Field in 31 fewer plate appearances. He also has a .349 wOBA against righties, so look for him to be one of several Indians’ hitters who fair better in this rematch.
Others to consider: Matt Adams (first base) and Chris Hermann (catcher)
SECOND BASE
Max Muncy vs. Felix Pena, Los Angeles Angels
Stadium – Angel Stadium
FanDuel = $4,400
DraftKings = $5,000
It’s pretty well noted by now that Muncy has been one of the most unexpected sources for power with 20 home runs in 236 plate appearances. He also gets on base a lot with a .419 OBP and has been hitting second, helping him score nine runs in his last four games. His price has increased significantly, but it’s hard not to ride his hot bat until he shows signs of cooling off. Of note, Muncy is only listed at second base on FanDuel as he is eligible at first base and third base on DraftKings.
Brock Holt vs. Jason Hammel, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $2,600
DraftKings = $3,500
Hammel’s 4.20 FIP suggests he hasn’t pitched as badly as his 5.56 ERA would lead you to believe, but his 1.55 WHIP leaves him with a small margin for error. The Red Sox will likely be a popular stack, but if you want to get one of the elite starting pitchers into your entry, you’ll need to find some cheap bats with upside. Holt doesn’t provide much power, but his .294 average and .371 OBP make him someone to consider.
Others to consider: Starlin Castro and Lourdes Gurriel Jr.
THIRD BASE
Jose Ramirez vs. Paul Blackburn, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Progressive Field
FanDuel = $5,000
DraftKings = $5,800
Ramirez has chipped in three steals in his last three games, bringing his total to 17 for the season. Add that to his 24 home runs and 24 doubles and he is one of most valuable players at any position most nights. He has a ridiculous .436 wOBA against right-handed pitchers this year, setting him up nicely against the underwhelming Blackburn.
Rafael Devers vs. Jason Hammel, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $2,700
DraftKings = $4,500
As we continue to hunt for cheap Red Sox hitters to include in a stack, Devers checks in as a viable option at third base. He hasn’t been as impressive this year, but he is still hitting for power with 14 home runs and 20 doubles. He’s virtually unplayable against lefties with a 56 wRC+, but with a 103 wRC+ against righties, he might be able to take advantage of this matchup.
Others to consider: Alex Bregman and Adrian Beltre
SHORTSTOP
Francisco Lindor vs. Paul Blackburn, Oakland Athletics
Stadium – Progressive Field
FanDuel = $5,100
DraftKings = $5,900
Lindor’s five-game hitting streak came to an end Wednesday, but he still drew a walk, stole a base and scored a run. His .297 average and .374 at the top of the Indians lineup has already led to 75 runs scored, which is only 25 away from breaking his previous career high. Add that to his excellent power numbers and Lindor will likely play a key role if the Indians are going to be successful against Blackburn.
Trea Turner vs. Dan Straily, Miami Marlins
Stadium – Nationals Park
FanDuel = $3,700
DraftKings = $4,700
Turner helped the Nationals earn a comeback victory against the Marlins on Thursday by going 3-for-5 with two home runs and eight RBI. Turner is known more for his prowess on the base paths, but he does have 11 home runs already this year. He might not have the platoon advantage against Straily, but Turner actually has a higher wOBA against righties (.363) than he does against lefties (.317) for his career.
Others to consider: Chris Taylor and Jorge Polanco
OUTFIELD
Juan Soto vs. Dan Straily, Miami Marlins
Stadium – Nationals Park
FanDuel = $3,700
DraftKings = $4,600
Soto was right in the middle of the Nationals wild win Thursday, finishing the game 2-for-4 with a double and three RBI. He continues to show an excellent eye at the plate, drawing four walks and striking out only three times in his last five games. Straily has allowed plenty of baserunners this year with a 1.38 WHIP and has a .360 wOBA against lefties, possibly setting up Soto for another productive night.
Andrew Benintendi vs. Jason Hammel, Kansas City Royals
Stadium – Kauffman Stadium
FanDuel = $3,600
DraftKings = $4,900
Benintendi is mired in a slump as he is only 6-for-38 (.158) in his last 10 games. He’s been a bit unlucky with a .214 BABIP, but he’s also struck out more with a 24.4% strikeout rate. Hammel is not a strikeout pitcher, though, with just a 5.9 K/9. Benintendi also has a .381 wOBA against righties, so this might be the game he gets back on track.
Josh Reddick vs. Reynaldo Lopez, Chicago White Sox
Stadium – Minute Maid Park
FanDuel = $2,600
DraftKings = $4,000
Before Reddick was placed on the DL towards the end of May with a knee infection, he was hitting just .227 with a .337 OBP. The time off seems to have done him good as he is hitting .329 with a .356 OBP since being activated. He’s someone to avoid against lefties, but his .341 wOBA against righties for his career makes him a cost-effective option with upside.
Others to consider: Michael Brantley and Brandon Nimmo