This series uses the FantasyLabs Tools to analyze three key MLB players in the day’s slate.
Robbie Ray: Pitcher, Diamondbacks
There are a lot of strong pitching options on today’s slate, but Ray arguably possesses more strikeout upside than anyone. He’s posted a K/9 of 12.67 over the past 12 months, trailing only Chris Sale over that time frame, and he’s tallied 23 strikeouts over his first 15.2 innings in 2018. He has a K Prediction of 9.0 on today’s slate, and pitchers with comparable K Predictions have historically been awesome values (per the Trends tool):
He’s been priced down to $10,000 on DraftKings for today’s matchup with the Giants, which since his most recent start represents a decrease of $2,400. His Bargain Rating of 29% doesn’t exactly scream value, but it is the top mark among all pitchers priced above $7,700. He’s only a -145 favorite, so he might have slightly reduced ownership.
Matt Joyce: Outfielder, A’s
The A’s exploded for 10 runs on Tuesday and appear to be in a nice spot again today, leading all teams with an implied team total of 5.2 runs:
They’re taking on White Sox right-hander Carson Fulmer, who allowed 11 base runners over 4.2 innings in his most recent start. Joyce is projected to occupy the leadoff spot, and No. 1 hitters with comparable implied team totals have historically averaged a Plus/Minus of +1.27 on DraftKings. He’s also on the positive side of his batting splits against Fulmer, posting a .365 wOBA and .261 ISO against right-handers over the past 12 months. The weather conditions could also work in Joyce’s favor, as the current forecast calls for strong winds blowing out to centerfield at game time.
Daniel Descalso: Third Base, Diamondbacks
The Diamondbacks have the top mark on the main slate with an implied team total of 4.7 runs, which will likely make them a popular target. One particularly intriguing player is Descalso, who is currently slotted to bat fifth in their projected lineup:
He’s taking on Giants right-hander Chris Stratton, which puts Descalso on the positive side of his batting splits: He’s posted a .338 wOBA and .183 ISO against right-handers over the past 12 months. He and his teammates will likely be popular, so you’ll likely need to be more contrarian with your other lineup spots if you decide to stack the Giants.
Good luck on today’s slate, and be sure to check out The Action Network if you’re looking for more baseball coverage!
After this piece is published, FantasyLabs is likely to provide news updates on a number of players. Be sure to stay ahead of your competition with our industry-leading DFS-focused news blurbs.
Pictured above: Robbie Ray
Photo credit: Neville E. Guard-USA Today Sports
