As the Major League Baseball season progresses towards the 100th game milestone for many teams, several players and matchups are generating significant interest among fans and analysts alike.
Cody Bellinger's Power Display
Cody Bellinger's current season performance has been noteworthy. As of now, Bellinger has hit nine home runs in 79 games. This puts him on a pace slightly lower than last year's total when he hit 26 home runs in 130 games. Despite the difference, Bellinger's power remains a crucial component of his team's offensive lineup.
Nolan Arenado's Struggles
Nolan Arenado, typically known for his power and consistency at the plate, is experiencing a challenging season. With a .702 OPS, this marks the lowest OPS of his career. Arenado's decline in performance is a surprising development, raising questions about potential adjustments needed to regain his usual form.
Bobby Witt Jr. Shines
On a more positive note, Bobby Witt Jr. showcased his talent in his recent outing, going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a run scored in their Saturday matchup. Witt Jr.'s performance highlights his potential to make significant contributions to his team's success.
Fantasy Baseball Picks: Alex Bregman and J.P. Crawford
For fantasy baseball enthusiasts, Alex Bregman and J.P. Crawford present intriguing options. Priced at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel, Bregman has been on a tear since July 4. Over his last 13 games, Bregman has hit .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and 10 runs scored, resulting in an impressive .885 OPS. His career performance against left-handed pitching, boasting a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS, further cements his value as a solid pick, especially with the Athletics set to start left-hander Hogan Harris, who has a career 5.53 ERA.
J.P. Crawford is another player to keep an eye on, priced similarly at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,000 on FanDuel. Crawford has demonstrated success against Tyler Anderson, going 3-for-10 with two walks. This season, Crawford has been effective against southpaws, batting .284 with an .805 OPS and four home runs in 88 at-bats. Interestingly, Crawford's overall performance has been a mixed bag, with five home runs in 206 at-bats against right-handers and a career-low batting average and OPS (.204 and .643, respectively) in his eight-year career. Despite these challenges, McClure, recognized in the book "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," endorses rostering Crawford, indicating confidence in his potential to deliver value.
Insightful Performances and Strategic Fantasy Picks
The MLB season, as it nears the 100-game mark, is unfolding with compelling storylines both on the field and in the world of fantasy sports. Players like Cody Bellinger, Nolan Arenado, Bobby Witt Jr., Alex Bregman, and J.P. Crawford offer a blend of power, potential, and strategic value, each contributing uniquely to their teams and fantasy rosters. Enthusiasts and analysts will continue to watch these players closely, making informed decisions and adjusting expectations as the season progresses.