In the following MLB weekly preview, we have a game breakdown for all 30 teams, pitching rankings and latest IL info to dominate Fantasy Baseball…
In memory of John Cannella Sr.
They say the third go-around is usually when one hits their stride. You know, they. Them. The people who know. Now entering my third season of providing the MLB Weekly Preview, I have never felt more confident in my data collection systems and resulting analysis. All of which are extremely time-consuming, but I could give a rat’s ass when I see our subscribers posting league-winning celebrations. Never was I more proud than what we accomplished together in the pandemic shortened season of 2020. With a tear in my eye…
While I had a disappointing fourth-place finish in my Roto OC, every other league was first or second. The league which ground my gears the most was my championship loss in Fantrax Dynasty, a league I’ve now belonged to for well over 11 years (aka my old ass can’t remember when I joined) and haven’t won. However, I learned something crucial that will benefit me this season: using bulk relievers with elite ratios whose value is non-contingent upon role.
That’s what this game is, a constant learning curve, and I don’t mean Jesús Luzardo’s turkey sub! Am I the greatest fantasy baseball player who has ever walked God’s green earth? No, I am not. But I outwork my opponents, and this work ethic is what got me to where I am today. Some of you reading this may be more successful, and I applaud you for that, although I’ve been crushing fantasy baseball since 1997. So, I got veteran experience going for me, which is nice. But this doesn’t mean we don’t learn from each other to be the very best at what we do. I subscribe to symbiotic relationships. With this in mind, let’s go crush it!!!
In the following weekly preview, you will find a game breakdown for all 30 MLB teams (including Interleague play), two-start and overall pitching rankings and the latest IL information to help you dominate this week’s matchup and through the entirety of your seasonal league. Plus, new this season: Stolen Base Targets!
Scroll right to the part of the MLB Weekly Preview you need in just one click!
Below, you will find an interactive table of contents. Simply click on the section of the article you wanna read and boom.. presto… alakazam.
Down on the Alternate Training Site Farm!
How great is it to have minor league baseball back?! A sign things are truly getting back to normal. No more alt site like we saw throughout 2020 and in the opening month this season. Minor League Baseball is great for a multitude of reasons (i.e. supports local economy, more baseball games to attend, grassroots of the game), but the biggest impact is player development. Those young men who are not ready for prime time players miss out on live game action with the alt site. And as for those who were deemed ready, or at least ready enough to face in-game situations on the major league level, the struggle was real. However, now things can get back to normal, or even a better new normal, for our fantasy baseball stars of the future.
Recently, Ray posted his Mid-May Rookie Report, detailing the elite prospects who can make an impact in the fantasy game for 2021. Below you will find a list of names from this report and others to keep an eye on for your leagues. In keeper and deep leagues, the Triple & Double-A prospects are worthy of roster consideration, especially if they rank in the top half of MLB Pipeline’s Top 100. For dynasty leagues, I assume a bulk of these names may already be owned, but if not, swoop up. Here is how our favorite studs are doing so far this season as they await the call-up (STATS AS OF 5/13).
C: Adley Rutschman, Bowie Baysox (Double-A; Orioles No. 1/MLB No. 2 prospect)
- 7 G, .214/.353/.464, 3 R, 1 2B, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 5 BB, 11 SO, 1 SB
- Overview: Rustchman is not off to as hot of a start as some of these other prospects, but the pedigree is there for the Majors. When we do see the 23-year-old switch-hitting backstop, expect a player who has plus tools nearly across the board. Tremendous eye at the plate, drives the ball from both sides to all fields, and makes a ton of hard contact (39.5% hard-hit rate). Word is, he calls a good game, and pitchers like throwing to him. So, he also has that going for him, which is nice.
C: Francisco Álvarez, St. Lucie Mets (Low-A; Mets No. 1/MLB No. 39)
- 7 G, .571/.677/.857, 8 R, 3 2B, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 9 BB, 3 SO, 1 SB
- Overview: Álvarez is only 19 years old mind you and further from our fantasy radars than Rutschman. He begins his first full season raging hot and making a big impression. He went 4-for-5 with a double and a pair of RBIs in his debut and netted hits in four straight games. The longball was a majestic shot and a preview of what’s to come.
1B: Michael Toglia, Spokane Indians (High-A; Rockies No. 3)
- 8 G, .167/.371/.667, 8 R, 4 HR, 8 RBI, 9 BB, 11 SO, 2 SB
- Overview: A few O-fers knocked the batting average down, yet the on-base and slugging are impressive and what the Rockies’ 2019 first-round pick brings to the batter’s box. Four homers in eight contests make a statement for the wet-behind-ears prospect. However, Toglia is 22 years old and tips the scales at 6′ 5″ 226 lbs. This manchild could easily scale the ladder quickly with a prototypical frame for the first-base position. Now, here comes the fun part… dude has wheels (45 run tool impressive for a big man) and is an intelligent baserunner to boot, as evidenced by the two swiped bags. Furthermore, he’s a switch-hitter with a strong eye at the plate! He was close to a three true outcomes kind of guy with nine walks and 11 strikeouts.
2B: Trevor Hauver, Tampa Tarpons (Low-A; Yankees No. 23)
- 7 G, .407/.514/1.111, 10 R, 1 2B, 6 HR, 13 RBI, 7 BB, 9 SO
- Overview: Hauver has played in the outfield for the Arizona State Sun Devils, but the Yankees selected him in the third round of the 2020 Draft to play second base. So far, the position adjustment has not hampered the bat. He had two Opening Day longballs and now has six in total. He projects as an excellent run-producer and has 30 total bases on the young minor league season.
3B/1B: Spencer Torkelson, West Michigan Whitecaps (High-A; Tigers No. 1/MLB No. 3)
- 7 G, .160/.333/.200, 5 R, 1 2B, 4 RBI, 6 BB, 11 SO, 1 SB
- Overview: Chicks dig the long ball, and so does Torkelson. His power rating of 65 is equivalent to such prospects as Luis Robert and Jo Adell! Also like Robert and Adell, Torkelson is no one-trick pony. He’s relaxed at the plate and waits for his pitch (17.5% BB-rate), controlling at-bats extremely well. He sprays the ball all over the field and displays his contact skills, driving the ball up the middle when he’s at his best. Torkelson has illustrated an ability to hit the ball out of the park to all fields while not selling out for that power. Although, he can hit some prestigious home runs with loft when pulling the baseball. The power has not come to fruition so far in 2021, but rest assured, it’s coming.
3B: Brett Baty, Brooklyn Cyclones (High-A; Mets No. 4/MLB No. 81)
- 6 G, .450/.607/.650, 4 2B, 8 RBI, 8 BB, 6 SO, 1 SB
- Overview: Time spent in Mets Spring Training camp is paying dividends for the 21-year-old with his hot start! New York’s top pick in 2019 already has three multi-hit games and is illustrating his gap-to-gap power by spraying the ball. The left-handed hitter has more walks than strikeouts so far and has added a swipe to boot. Baty is among three representatives listed here from the Mets, which illustrates their replenished farm system.
SS: Wander Franco, Durham Bulls (Triple-A; Rays No. 1/MLB No. 1)
- 6 G, .269/.333/.615, 4 R, 1 2B, 1 3B, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 2 BB, 5 SO, 1 SB
- Overview: I took a risk listing Franco here. How exactly? He may be up in majors before the ink dries on this article. The international amateur star is maintaining a strong work ethic for the Bulls. The 20-year-old is showing his multifarious skillset at Durham, contributing in every major category and facet of the game. His 80 hit tool will be a welcomed addition for Tampa when the time comes. When will that be? Click the link above for Ray’s Mid-May Rookie Report. *UPDATE: Franco hit a grand slam on 5/16! Call ‘em up… the defensive skills alone would be an upgrade for Willy Adames.
SS: Bobby Witt Jr., Northwest Arkansas Naturals (Double-A; Royals No. 1/MLB No. 7)
- 7 G, .241/.313/.345, 4 R, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 2 BB, 10 SO, 2 SB
- Overview: Witt is another highly touted shortstop prospect who you have heard of certainly. If not, let’s briefly break Bobby down. To begin rookie ball, Witt had fishing tendencies at the plate, but by season’s end, he improved to a 20.2% K-rate. “He’s capable of driving the ball to all fields with excellent barrel control and outstanding bat speed,” according to his former manager, Miguel Bernard. As he continues to refine his approach, there are few concerns about his ability to hit for average (.241 at time of data sample). That, in turn, will help him tap into his plus raw power more consistently. He’s also a plus runner who is aggressive on the basepaths, giving him 20-20 potential.
SS: CJ Abrams, San Antonio Missions (Double-A; Padres No. 2/MLB No. 8)
- 8 G, .313/.405/.500, 3 R, 3 2B, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 5 BB, 11 SO, 2 SB
- Overview: Continuing our “run” of top shortstop prospects, we come upon the fastest of them all! Abrams has a max run scout grade of 80, and his speed is truly game-changing. Listen, kid’s only 20 years old, so we are NOT seeing him in 2021. 2022 looks more likely, especially due to a certain shortstop named Fernando Tatis Jr. Have you heard of him? With Tatis’ shoulder worries, Abrams does offer a secure backup when he develops to major-league ready. Otherwise, he may ultimately play second or be utilized as a trade chip. For now, he has impressed in Double-A. After slashing .393/.436/.647 across two levels in 2019, Abrams was stalled by the minor-league shut down last season. Although, it looks like he’s picking up where he left off.
SS: Ronny Mauricio, Brooklyn Cyclones (High-A; Mets No. 2/MLB No. 56)
- 6 G, .310/.355/.759, 7 R, 4 2B, 3 HR, 8 RBI, 2 BB, 9 SO
- Overview: Remember what I wrote about Baty and Mets Spring Training? Well, you can copy and paste that here, only Mauricio is 20 years old. He’s hit in every game for Brooklyn, kicking off the season with a two-double performance. His standout game came on 5/7 when he stroked two doubles and his first homer of the season. And two more have come in quick succession.
OF: Julio Rodríguez, Everett AquaSox (High-A; Mariners No. 2/MLB No. 5)
- 8 G, .333/.421/.606, 9 R, 4 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 5 BB, 11 SO, 3 SB
- Overview: Rodríguez is among a stable of fine young outfielders for Seattle. We’ve seen Jarred Kelenic (21) make his major league debut, while “elder” Kyle Lewis (25) has had success at this level. The 20-year-old is only at High-A, but Rodriguez has every chance to be a plus hitter with plus power in the Majors. He has succeeded across all levels as a teenager and is ripping the baseball at Everett. Originally viewed as a mild base-stealing threat, he works very hard to improve his speed, and it has paid off with three steals already. His advanced approach at the plate is being put to the test early with 11 strikeouts to five walks, so it is this area that will be the next hurdle of his development and path to the big leagues. It will allow the physical outfielder to tap into his tremendous raw power.
OF: Vidal Bruján, Durham Bulls (Triple-A; Rays No. 2/MLB No. 41)
- 7 G, .407/.515/.852, 8 R, 4 HR, 9 RBI, 6 BB, 5 SO, 1 SB
- Overview: Bruján has done plenty of hitting for Durham on the young season thanks to a plus hit tool and speed. While acclaimed in many areas, power is not one of them. However, the four bombs say otherwise – he homered in back-to-back games with a two-homer day, as well. This could be an outlier but something to pay attention to, certainly. If the power should continue, he will springboard to a higher-level prospect. Bruján is just a born hitter. He already has four multi-hit games, highlighted by a three-hit affair. A key factor is potential infield/outfield eligibility; he has played four games in the outfield and two at second.
OF: Heliot Ramos, Richmond Flying Squirrels (Double-A; Giants No. 3/MLB No. 70)
- 7 G, .400/.500/.800, 9 R, 4 2B, 2 HR, 5 RBI, 5 BB, 7 SO, 3 SB
- Overview: In his first exposure to Double-A pitching in 2019, Ramos has a rough ride. However, he learned a lot and has kept working. The results so far have been tremendous. The 21-year old hit in all seven games, picking up six extra-base hits (XBH). Ramos homered in back-to-back games. The latter contest was a three-hit, four-RBI performance for the 21-year-old.
OF: Jesús Sánchez, Jacksonville Jumbo Shrimp (Triple-A; Marlins No. 6)
- 7 G, .571/.600/1.179, 8 R, 1 2B, 2 3B, 4 HR, 14 RBI, 2 BB, 3 SO
- Overview: Plakata! Sánchez is making solid contact that often leads to home runs. It’s been refreshing for the Miami organization to see the 23-year-old lefty hitter doing extremely well out of the gate. He was one deemed ready to face in-game situations on the major league level in 2020, but when I wrote ‘the struggle was real’ above, I was thinking of Sánchez. With hits in six of seven games, all but one of the multi-hit variety, he is showing his potential. On 5/5, he went 5-for-5 with a triple, a homer and four RBIs, this after a five-RBI outburst in Jacksonville’s opener. Sánchez has 33 total bases on the young season.
LHP: MacKenzie Gore, El Paso Chihuahuas (Triple-A; Padres No. 1/MLB No. 6)
- 0-1, 1 GS, 4 IP, 5 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 3 BB, 3 SO, 2.00 WHIP
- Overview: Only one start at the point of data collection, and a rough one at that. While a bad first pass through the El Paso rotation, I’m giving him a pass based on his track record. His four-pitch arsenal is remarkably consistent, ranking 60 across the board (Fastball, Curve, Slider, Change). His floor is quite high from demonstrating an ability to get outs even when he loses the feel for secondary pitches. He looks to unlock another level of dominance by fully harnessing those offerings. Gore reminds me of Randy Johnson: fiery and competitive on the mound, a natural intelligence to make adjustments within the game and the makings of a true No. 1 starter.
LHP: John Doxakis, Charleston RiverDogs (Low-A; Rays No. 29)
- 0-0, 2 GS, 7 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 13 SO, 0.29 WHIP
- Overview: Doxakis has had a strong full-season debut in his two shorter starts as he builds up slowly. Tampa Bay’s second-round pick in 2019 out of Texas A&M started the opener for Charleston, going four scoreless. He struck out five while allowing just two hits. In his second turn, he only went three innings, but that was the only negative. Eight of the nine batters he faced were retired via strikeout in his hitless affair. Lots to like about the 22-year-old, but a long path to the bigs awaits.
RHP: Luis Medina, Hudson Valley Renegades (High-A; Yankees No. 7)
- 1-0, 2 GS, 9 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 4 BB, 15 SO, 0.67 WHIP
- Overview: Another backburning project here with Medina. Also 22, Medina’s stuff is ELECTRIC. In both of his starts, he came out to announce (his) presence with authority. On Opening Day, Medina pitched four innings, giving up one hit and striking out eight. He upped his innings to five and got the win on 5/9, allowing just one hit again while striking out seven. He misses bats with regularity and garners weak contact on the ground (10 GB outs in two starts).
Reliever (RHP): Mauricio Llovera, Lehigh Valley IronPigs (Triple-A; Phillies No. 17)
- 0-0, 1 SV, 4 G, 5 IP, 2 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 5 SO, 0.60 WHIP
- Overview: Llovera had his cup of coffee in 2020, and he’s looking for more java. The 25-year-old reliever closed the door on Opening Day with a perfect frame. Tack on two more hitless innings for his next trip to the bump, and you can see his versatility. All told, he has a pristine ERA and a tidy WHIP. With the way the Phillies bullpen has been struggling once again in 2021 (4.51 ERA, 22nd MLB), the City of Brotherly Love has a place for Llovera at the big league level.
As always, if there are any requests for information I can provide or a player/team you would like me to cover in this section of the MLB Weekly Preview, drop a line in our VIP Chat Room or hit me up on Twitter, @Rob_Povia.
MLB GAME BREAKDOWN GRID
NOTES: Ladies and Germs, we have our first eight-game week. Due to Minnesota’s COVID issues earlier this season while in Anaheim, they are making up the two games lost on 5/20 in a doubleheader during a mutual off day. With three-game series bookending the double bill for both squads, it makes their players must-plays even with the seven-inning games. The math does add up here.
Shohei Ohtani “should be on the mound somewhere between Wednesday and Friday next week” due to fatigue from being awesome. Groovy… I slated him for Wednesday for the above L/R splits. Alex Cobb could return as soon as 5/17 from blister issues, which will aid the Halos’ staff during the eight games, but knowing exactly when each will start will be a “day-to-day” issue.
A Few Areas to Target
LEFTY, TEXAS RANGER
Texas is scheduled to face all right-handed pitchers for their seven-game week in the Lone Star State. While some of the righties are formidable (i.e. Gerrit Cole, Lance McCullers Jr.), feel free to fire up Joey Gallo (career vs. RHP: .280 ISO, .346 wOBA, 197 wRC, although equal opportunity basher), Nate Lowe (.214 ISO, .350 wOBA, 125 wRC+), Willie Calhoun (.179 ISO, .317 wOBA, 78 wRC+) and David Dahl (.219 ISO, .352 wOBA, 103 wRC+)!
Mustache May
The Giants are at Great American Ballpark for four before hosting LAD at the end of the week. If Los Angeles can pile up runs against this staunch San Fran defense, Giants will need to keep pace. Disclaimer: I ripped this sentence from a DFS NFL article and replaced touchdowns with runs. #footballlogic
Last Licks in Dunedin
After playing the first two months of the 2021 season at their spring training facility in Dunedin, Fla., the Blue Jays will move back to the home of Triple-A affiliate Buffalo Bisons. But before they do, the team will enjoy six games this week in the Sunshine State. These will be most of their last games there (they have one more game there on 5/24 as part of wrap-around series with Tampa). Sahlen Field slightly enhanced run-scoring last year (1.096), but it greatly depressed homers (0.760). Get ‘em in your lineup!
WEEKLY INTERLEAGUE OUTLOOK
With the lack of a universal DH in 2021, American League teams will once again lose their designated hitter when traveling to National League parks. I was dead wrong about Mountcastle as he saw both starts at NYM last week at the cost of Stewart. This trend could continue this week, but with three games, got to imagine Mountcastle gets one day off. As I wrote last week, he’s not a good defender. However, J.D. Martinez showed off his defensive chops a couple weeks back while visiting Citi Field. He made some fine catches in left field, strong throws to the plate, and regularly hit the cutoff man. Franchy could sit all three games, or maybe the Sox give Renfroe a break. Lastly, Haggerty will ride pine in favor of Mitch Haniger, who is tied for first in MLB for home runs (12).
Bad week to be a Royal! They only see five games this week and have the unfortunate luck of drawing Brandon Woodruff and Corbin Burnes in the two-game series with the Brewers. However, they do keep the DH at home, but Milwaukee will have the same advantage. Super-sub McKinney could get some much-needed ABs to get going again. Christian Yelich began his rehab with Triple-A Nashville Sounds on 5/14. No announcement of how many games he’ll require down on the farm, but if his health checks out in 3-4 games, I can’t imagine Brewers will keep him down there long. The DH could be just the excuse they need.
*Rivalry Series: Battle of the Beltways, “Vedder” Cup
TOP TWO-START PITCHERS
IN ORDER OF PREFERENCE
- Gerrit Cole1 (@TEX, CHW)
- Yu Darvish9 (COL, SEA)
- Walker Buehler11 (ARI, @SF)
- Zack Wheeler18 (MIA, BOS)
- Julio Urías19 (ARI, @SF)
- Sonny Gray20 (SF, MIL)
- Charlie Morton24 (NYM, PIT)
- Hyun Jin Ryu30 (BOS, TB)
- Trevor Rogers35 (@PHI, NYM)
- Patrick Corbin42 (@CHC, BAL)
- Max Fried43 (NYM, PIT)
- Anthony DeSclafani45 (@CIN, LAD)
- Luis Castillo46 (SF, MIL)
- Eduardo Rodriguez47 (@TOR, @PHI)
- Jameson Taillon55 (@TEX, CHW)
Other Options: Michael Pineda61 (CHW, @CLE), Madison Bumgarner62 (@LAD, @COL), Taijuan Walker64 (@ATL, @MIA), Dallas Keuchel66 (@MIN, @NYY), Ryan Yarbrough69 (@BAL, @TOR), J.A. Happ70 (CHW, @CLE), Cristian Javier72 (@OAK, @TEX), Danny Duffy81 (MIL, DET), JT Brubaker82 (@STL, @ATL), Adbert Alzolay88 (WSH, @STL), Jon Gray90 (@SD, ARI), Casey Mize105 (@SEA, @KC)
Danger Zone: Logan Webb112 (@CIN, LAD), Mike Foltynewicz113 & Jordan Lyles120 (NYY, HOU), Matt Harvey136 (TB, @WSH), John Gant149 (PIT, CHC), Zach Davies150 (WSH, @STL), Merrill KellyNR (@LAD, @COL)
For a detailed breakdown of two-start pitchers who may be available on your waiver wire, check out Vlad’s FAAB Values!
STARTING PITCHER RANKINGS FOR MAY 17 – 23
Pitcher Spotlight: Zach Plesac
Victim of two no-hitters this season, Plesac narrowly missed one for himself against Seattle and redemption. Only one other pitcher in history – Detroit’s Jim Perry in 1973 – has pitched twice in a season on the opposite side of history. In Plesac’s best start of the season, he almost had the Mariners join him as a two-time victim and the 19th team in history. What has improved for Plesac to turn around his slow start?
Plesac scuffled out of the gate this season. The issue has been largely a decrease in strikeouts with a 17.5% K-rate and a passable 27.9% CSW. The league average CSW in 2020 was 28.2%, and the K-rate is a far cry from his 27.7% in 2020 and career average of 20.5%. However, over his last three starts, he has struck out 15 batters. Only two last time out, but he did a terrific job keeping runners off base. The WHIP is now below one at 0.96 and even more accurately portrayed, his ABA on the season is 1.46. It helps that Plesac has walked just three right-handed batters this season. Ironically, Kyle Lewis owns two of those walks.
Can he maintain these stingy ways?
Well, the WHIP is 0.10 below his career average but 0.16 higher than the 2020 total in 55.1 IP (7.1 more than where he’s at now). Based on this, he could stay right where he’s at if he continues to baffle hitters with his change. The ABA will rise as anything below 1.55 is elite-level performance. But even if it floats to 1.55-1.60, that’s still all-star level.
MLB WEEKLY PREVIEW | INJURED LIST REPORT
Besides names that may already be listed, here is the latest injury news on a few of your fantasy studs. I will update you early in the week.
Hunter Dozier/José Abreu collision – This was scary! After Dozier hit a pop-up a few feet away from home plate, he avoided Yasmani Grandal and put his head down to run it out to first base. At the same time, Abreu was also tracking the ball and ran full steam into Dozier. Both players were down for a while. After an initial evaluation, Abreu suffered a facial contusion/laceration and bruised left knee but no concussion! Remarkably, he was back in the lineup the next day hitting taters. Dozier was not so fortunate. He was placed on the seven-day concussion IL along with a quad contusion and neck discomfort. To pile on, Salvador Perez experienced groin tightness on 5/16 and is labeled DTD, although he is lobbying to be in 5/16’s contest. Wear looser jeans, bro! Sal Perez, A-Ok!
Giancarlo Stanton (left quadriceps tightness) was a late scratch on 5/14. He’s been healthy for the most part this season, but this quad injury has now cost him three games. Manager Aaron Boone “hopes” Stanton will be available for upcoming series in Texas, according to Marly Rivera of ESPN.com. Meanwhile, Aaron Hicks (torn sheath in left wrist) has started medication to treat the injury, but surgery is an option. Team had hoped to avoid the IL but finally made that designation on 5/15.
Ronald Acuña Jr. (ankle) sat for a second straight day 5/15 after rolling his ankle, trying to beat it to first base. X-rays were negative, but his return date remains unclear. All of this after missing minimal time with abdomen issues and a bum pinky. Ehire Adrianza filled in for the superstar, leading off and playing right field. *UPDATE: Acuña was out again on 5/16 but did pitch hit and could be activated on 5/17. Clearing every hurdle, running the bases is the last one. Manager Brian Snitker said he would have put in a pinch runner if Acuña reached base, and that’s telling.
Stephen Strasburg (shoulder) – We are close to getting Stras back for our fantasy lineups. He’s scheduled to make one more rehab start (either sim game or in the minors, depending on COVID-19 protocols), and if all goes well, he will slot in for Erick Fedde on 5/21 vs. Baltimore. *UPDATE: Stras pitched for Triple-A Rochester, and it went about as well as the Nats could hope for (75 pitches, zero runs, two hits, two walks, six strikeouts). Only issue is he went 4.1 when the Nats were hoping for five, but he reached his target pitch count. Club could opt for one more rehab start to build up more since Fedde was lights out his last start. However, I don’t see this happening. Why risk re-injury at the minor league level when he could fire the five innings where it counts.
Elieser Hernandez (biceps) will begin his rehab assignment this week, Jordan McPherson of the Miami Herald reports. He was originally scheduled to do so this past week, but the team thought he needed just a little more time. He will need time to build up, but if you held onto him, the light is at the end of the tunnel.
Speaking of potential returns, the Dodgers have rotation reinforcements on the way. David Price (hamstring) is set to be activated when eligible on 5/17 and will not require a rehab assignment. He may toss a BP session first before game action, but either way, I like him to pitch bulk innings (or even a traditional start) on 5/21 at San Francisco. Tony Gonsolin (shoulder), who will occupy Dustin May’s spot in the rotation more long-term, is behind Price in his rehab since he needs to build up after being shut down in early April. I’m awaiting reports of how his latest two-inning session went, but he’s still roughly two weeks away.
Corey Seager (hand) took a pitch up high as he was checking his swing, and the ball, unfortunately, made contact with his right hand. He immediately was pulled from the 5/15 game, and X-rays revealed a fracture in the hand. He is expected to hit the IL, according to manager Dave Roberts. *UPDATE: No surprise Seager hits the IL, and reports state he could miss at least four weeks with the fractured fifth metacarpal. The good news is no surgery required. Expect Lux & Taylor to occupy SS.
“According to the Phillies, Bryce Harper exited the (5/16) game with right shoulder soreness. He is day-to-day,” tweeted Jim Salisbury of NBC Sports Philadelphia.
This Just In… Michael Conforto (right hamstring tightness) pulled up lame at first base, trying to beat out a double play and grabbing the back of his right leg. We’ll continue to monitor; he’s listed as DTD after being removed from the game. *UPDATE: Mets are expected to place Conforto on the 10-day IL prior to series opener in Atlanta, Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports.
Lastly, someone please put this Rockies fan on the IL… DAMN! What a punk.
POV SPECIAL – SP STREAM OF THE WEEK
→ Jon Lester107, LH WSH (@CHC, BAL; 40% owned) – Lester has been decent since his return to the diamond. Quick, someone go knock on some wood! The 61.2 medium contact percentage (Med%) has certainly helped and is his MO. He gets a date with his former team in Chicago, which some may shy away from, but I LOVE IT! Lester has always been a fiery competitor, and the revenge narrative will always be there. We witnessed this when either Oakland or the Cubs faced Boston. Even if he gets hit up by the red-hot and streaking Kris Bryant, the Baltimore matchup at the end of the week will more than make up for it. Lester makes for a fine streamer in deeper leagues.
Honorable Mention: Sam HentgesNR, LH CLE (@LAA, MIN; 7% owned) – DEEP DIVE!
For more streaming options on the mound AND at the plate, visit Vlad’s FAAB Values!
PITCHING MATCHUPS
Sunday, May 23, 2021
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Matt Harvey (RHP, BAL) | 3-4 | 5.93 | 4.88 | 4.81 | 4.95 | 16.0% | 6.4% | 35.4% | 35.7% | ||||||||
Patrick Corbin (LHP, WSH) | 2-3 | 6.10 | 4.38 | 4.67 | 6.28 | 18.4% | 8.9% | 43.8% | 28.8% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Dallas Keuchel (LHP, CHW) | 3-1 | 4.44 | 4.42 | 4.73 | 5.86 | 11.6% | 7.2% | 37.3% | 21.2% | ||||||||
Jameson Taillon (RHP, NYY) | 1-3 | 5.73 | 3.86 | 3.43 | 3.59 | 28.7% | 6.3% | 37.9% | 47.6% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Eduardo Rodriguez (LHP, BOS) | 5-2 | 4.70 | 3.26 | 3.44 | 3.46 | 25.9% | 4.3% | 35.7% | 34.1% | ||||||||
Zack Wheeler (RHP, PHI) | 3-2 | 2.52 | 3.01 | 3.25 | 2.77 | 28.0% | 5.5% | 34.8% | 30.0% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Michael Wacha* (RHP, TB) | 1-1 | 4.76 | 4.01 | 4.08 | 6.86 | 22.4% | 6.9% | 52.4% | 36.6% | ||||||||
Hyun Jin Ryu (LHP, TOR) | 4-2 | 2.51 | 3.08 | 3.30 | 3.39 | 24.5% | 2.7% | 33.6% | 30.8% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
J.A. Happ (LHP, MIN) | 2-2 | 5.35 | 5.83 | 5.60 | 4.85 | 13.4% | 8.7% | 40.9% | 46.9% | ||||||||
Zach Plesac (RHP, CLE) | 4-3 | 3.93 | 4.24 | 4.32 | 3.54 | 17.1% | 5.1% | 39.3% | 33.7% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Jordan Yamamoto* (RHP, NYM) | 1-0 | 3.38 | 4.84 | 4.73 | 7.76 | 8.3% | 0.0% | 40.0% | 22.2% | ||||||||
Cody Poteet (RHP, MIA) | 1-0 | 1.80 | 4.40 | 4.02 | 1.70 | 23.1% | 5.1% | 35.7% | 51.9% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Freddy Peralta (RHP, MIL) | 4-1 | 2.40 | 3.26 | 2.90 | 2.07 | 39.2% | 10.8% | 31.8% | 52.4% | ||||||||
Luis Castillo (RHP, CIN) | 1-6 | 7.44 | 3.99 | 4.22 | 4.30 | 19.8% | 7.4% | 40.0% | 26.6% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
JT Brubaker (RHP, PIT) | 3-3 | 3.27 | 3.70 | 3.75 | 4.21 | 23.3% | 6.3% | 39.8% | 28.0% | ||||||||
Max Fried (LHP, ATL) | 1-2 | 5.46 | 3.92 | 4.03 | 4.78 | 24.8% | 8.5% | 36.1% | 30.9% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Casey Mize (RHP, DET) | 3-3 | 3.69 | 4.59 | 4.76 | 4.85 | 17.8% | 9.9% | 36.8% | 27.3% | ||||||||
Kris Bubic (LHP, KC) | 0-0 | 0.96 | 4.50 | 4.66 | 2.90 | 20.0% | 12.9% | 29.8% | 31.9% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Cristian Javier (RHP, HOU) | 3-1 | 3.27 | 4.03 | 3.58 | 3.87 | 30.5% | 8.6% | 41.7% | 50.5% | ||||||||
Mike Foltynewicz (RHP, TEX) | 1-4 | 5.18 | 4.66 | 4.50 | 4.98 | 19.2% | 6.3% | 47.1% | 40.8% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Taylor Widener* (RHP, ARI) | 1-0 | 2.82 | 4.83 | 4.59 | 5.67 | 19.4% | 6.5% | 47.1% | 46.2% | ||||||||
Jon Gray (RHP, COL) | 4-4 | 3.48 | 4.11 | 4.40 | 3.31 | 20.5% | 9.1% | 34.2% | 28.8% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Julio Urías (LHP, LAD) | 6-1 | 3.04 | 3.35 | 3.18 | 2.99 | 27.6% | 3.2% | 29.3% | 40.0% | ||||||||
Anthony DeSclafani (RHP, SF) | 4-1 | 2.03 | 3.79 | 3.87 | 2.97 | 23.2% | 6.3% | 44.5% | 36.1% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Sean Manaea (LHP, OAK) | 3-2 | 4.41 | 3.77 | 3.81 | 4.04 | 23.1% | 4.3% | 39.7% | 38.0% | ||||||||
Dylan Bundy (RHP, LAA) | 0-5 | 6.02 | 3.89 | 3.81 | 3.56 | 24.7% | 6.5% | 30.2% | 37.9% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Justin Dunn (RHP, SEA) | 1-2 | 3.63 | 5.84 | 5.38 | 4.75 | 21.9% | 14.6% | 36.2% | 53.2% | ||||||||
Yu Darvish (RHP, SD) | 4-1 | 1.81 | 3.56 | 3.09 | 2.62 | 32.2% | 6.1% | 32.3% | 48.4% |
W/L | ERA | xFIP | SIERA | xERA | K% | BB% | HH% | FB% | |||||||||
Zach Davies (RHP, CHC) | 2-2 | 5.58 | 5.72 | 5.84 | 6.90 | 12.0% | 11.5% | 39.4% | 30.1% | ||||||||
Adam Wainwright (RHP, STL) | 2-4 | 4.63 | 4.22 | 4.22 | 3.87 | 21.8% | 7.4% | 37.1% | 34.5% |
STOLEN BASE TARGETS
If you have been paying attention to the new rule changes for minor league baseball, you can see the commissioner’s office desires a return of a long-lost element to the game… the stolen base. Let’s get ahead of the curve while also maximizing on the few pilferers of the dirt in 2021. Jack Kitchen (@JAXvicious), a long-time sub, reached out this offseason, asking if I could add a section on stolen base targets. As I have said from Day One of this column, your wish is my command!
So, I have imported one of the many fine tools we offer on our sister site, Elite Fantasy. Along with stolen base targets, our DFS MLB package offers daily articles and livestreams, a 24/7 chat, ownership projections and Fantasy Cruncher optimizer, BvP data, batter splits, park factors, umpire factors, weather reports and cheat sheets. The data alone is worth well over $1200! These weapons of mass destruction aid fantasy success in all formats, DFS and seasonal. JOIN TODAY! Promo code Red10 gets you 10% off ANY Elite Sports Package, including VIP.