MLB Teams Nearing the Season's Milestone
As Monday approaches, many MLB teams are set to reach a significant milestone with their 100th game of the season. Hitting this mark offers a perfect opportunity to reflect on individual performances that have stood out so far this year.
Cody Bellinger's Power Numbers
Cody Bellinger, in particular, has shown sparks of the formidable power hitting that has characterized much of his career. With nine home runs in 79 games this year, he remains a potent force in his team's lineup. For context, Bellinger ended last season with 26 home runs in 130 games, underlining his consistent ability to deliver the long ball.
The Struggles of Nolan Arenado
Meanwhile, Nolan Arenado, often lauded for his all-around prowess, is enduring a challenging season. He's currently sporting a .702 OPS, the lowest of his distinguished career. Known for his offensive contributions alongside his stellar defense, this dip in performance is notably uncharacteristic for Arenado.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Standout Game
Bobby Witt Jr. gave a glimpse of his burgeoning potential in their Saturday matchup. Going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a run scored, Witt Jr. showcased his ability to make critical contributions on the field. Such performances are invaluable as teams look to secure pivotal wins during this stretch of the season.
Alex Bregman's Recent Surge
Alex Bregman has been one of the standout performers since July 4, hitting an impressive .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and 10 runs scored over 13 games. His .885 OPS in this period underscores his significant impact on his team's fortunes. Bregman is priced at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel, reflecting his value in the fantasy baseball market. Over his career, Bregman's performance against left-handed pitching has been formidable, boasting a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS.
The Challenge of Hogan Harris
Looking ahead, Bregman will face off against the Athletics' LHP Hogan Harris on Monday. Harris, carrying a career 5.53 ERA, will have his work cut out for him against a hot-hitting Bregman.
Evaluating J.P. Crawford
J.P. Crawford has also been a player of interest, priced similarly to Bregman at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,000 on FanDuel. His career performance against Tyler Anderson includes going 3-for-10 with two walks, suggesting a reasonable level of comfort facing this particular pitcher. This season, Crawford is batting .284 with an .805 OPS against southpaws and has hit four home runs in 88 at-bats against left-handed pitchers.
However, it's been a challenging year for Crawford as well, who is experiencing the lowest batting average (.204) and OPS (.643) of his eight-year career. Despite these struggles, McClure, recognized in the book "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," endorses rostering Crawford, indicating faith in a potential turnaround.
Fantasy Implications and Player Endorsements
With these various player narratives in mind, the fantasy implications for avid participants in daily fantasy sports platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel are significant. The endorsement from McClure to include J.P. Crawford, despite his struggles, suggests underlying metrics or potential forthcoming favorable matchups that could enhance his value. Likewise, Bregman's ongoing surge makes him a highly attractive option for fantasy managers looking to capitalize on his scorching form.
In summary, as we approach the 100-game mark of the MLB season, the storylines are rich with individual battles, comebacks, and unexpected downturns. From Bellinger's consistent power to Arenado's struggles, Witt Jr.'s breakout moments, and the strategic play of Bregman and Crawford, the league continues to deliver compelling drama and opportunities for fans and fantasy enthusiasts alike.