Joe Mixon RB | CIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon will look to build off of his solid Week 5 performance when the team squares off with the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. Though Mixon had issues starting the season, he has turned things around under new offensive coordinator Bill Lazor. Lazor is committed to getting the rookie some touches as Mixon hasn't seen less than 15 rushing attempts over the team's last three games. Pittsburgh has had issues stopping the run this season, giving Mixon a good opportunity to have an efficient performance in Week 7.
John Ross WR | CIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver John Ross (knee) remains questionable for the Week 7 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ross, who has been dealing with the knee issue since the summer, practiced in full on Friday, something he hasn't done for quite some time. With wide receiver Tyler Boyd (knee) unable to play, Ross could find himself seeing some targets if he is able to suit up on Sunday.
Aaron Gordon PF | ORL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Orlando Magic power forward Aaron Gordon (ankle) will not play against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Gordon tweaked the ankle on Wednesday night during the season opener against the Miami Heat and subsequently was forced to sit out against the Brooklyn Nets. Power forward Jonathan Isaac , who played 22 minutes on Friday night but was limited with foul trouble, will start once again.
Frank Ntilikina PG | NY |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New York Knicks point guard Frank Ntilikina (ankle) will not play against the Detroit Pistons. Ntilikina injured his ankle during practice while attempting to box out center Willy Hernangomez and after testing it during shootarounds on Saturday morning, head coach Jeff Hornacek didn't feel comfortable playing him. Though the injury doesn't appear too serious, it could keep him out a few games. Point guard Ramon Sessions , who started on Thursday night against the Thunder will be called upon once again with tweener guard Ron Baker likely picking up extra minutes.
Alex Bregman 3B | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman is hitting second and playing third base for Game 7 of the Championship Series against Yankees starter CC Sabathia on Saturday. Against the southpaw, outfielder Josh Reddick drops to ninth in the order. Bregman has just seven hits in 38 postseason at-bats (.184) this year, but he does have two long balls and five RBI, and his move up the lineup makes him a DFS sleeper. He's 0-for-3 with a strikeout against Sabathia, but Bregman did hit a cool .331 against lefties in 2017.
Derrick Rose PG | CLE |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Cleveland Cavaliers point guard Derrick Rose (ankle) will not play on Saturday night against the Orlando Magic. Rose was Injured during the team's matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks on Wednesday night after taking a flagarant foul from center Greg Monroe . Veteran point guard Jose Calderon will get the start in his absence.
Justin Verlander P | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Justin Verlander shut down the Yankees again, this time twirling seven shutout innings while striking out eight to force a Game 7 in the ALCS. In 16 innings pitched against the Yankees, Verlander has allowed zero runs while striking out 21 hitters. Verlander only needed 99 pitches in a game where the Houston offense busted the game open midway through. With the World Series on the line, it would not be a surprise to see Verlander possibly make a quick appearance out of the bullpen in Game 7.
Charlie Morton P | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Astros will put their World Series hopes in the hands of right-hander Charlie Morton as they take on the Yankees in Game 7 of the ALCS. Morton was lit up for seven runs in 3 2/3 innings by the Yankees earlier in the series and will have a very short leash. Morton's 10.13 postseason ERA obscures the fact that Morton was a workhorse this season, winning 14 games and striking out 163 batters in 146 2/3 innings this season. With the season on the line, pitchers like Lance McCullers and Dallas Keuchel will also be available out of the bullpen.
DeMar DeRozan SG | TOR |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Toronto Raptors could be without guard/forward DeMar DeRozan on Saturday. He's listed as questionable with an illness, but this can't be taken too seriously until head coach Dwane Casey addresses the media. In 32 minutes DeRozan scored 11 points, six rebounds, and five assists in the Raptors opening victory over Chicago. If DeRozan is unable to play then C.J. Miles will likely be inserted into the starting lineup. Norm Powell would see extended minutes off the bench for Toronto.
Denzel Valentine SG | CHI |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Chicago Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg said guard/forward Denzel Valentine is still dealing with pain in his knee. Valentine played 26 minutes in the Bulls opener on Thursday. He scored 12 points with two rebounds off the bench in the loss to Toronto. If Valentine is unable to go then his minutes will likely be split between Quincy Pondexter , David Nwaba and Kay Felder . Not much fantasy impact for any of these guys if Valentine is unable to play on Saturday against the Spurs.
Rodney Hood SG | UTA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Utah Jazz have decided to sit guard Rodney Hood after an MRI revealed a minor calf strain. It's good news for the organization as they originally thought the injury was much more significant when Hood was carried off the court. He's considered day-to-day, but should be back in the lineup soon. Donovan Mitchell and Thabo Sefolosha are the two most likely candidates to replace Hood in the starting lineup. Alec Burks will also likely see more minutes with Hood out on Saturday.
Joel Embiid C | PHI |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Sixers are sitting center Joel Embiid on Saturday against the Raptors after he logged in 28 minutes on Friday. The team is not allowing Embiid to play in back-to-back games due to health concerns. Embiid says he understands why the team's medical staff and coaches want to limit his minutes, but it still bothers him. "I just want to feel like an NBA player," Embiid said. "I feel like I'm not an NBA player because I can't play back-to-back." This season Embiid is averaging 14.5 points and 13.5 rebounds through the first two games. He will be back in action on Monday against the Pistons.
Chris Paul PG | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Houston Rockets head coach Mike D'Antoni said the team will hold out guard Chris Paul until his knee is completely well. The knee wasn't responding the way the organization wanted, and now the team will hold out Paul without much of a timetable. The Rockets want to wait until Paul's knee is 100 percent before letting him back into game action. ESPN report had Paul sidelined 2-to-4 weeks and that seems about accurate. Eric Gordon will see an increase in playing time with Paul out for the foreseeable future.
Devin Harris PG | DAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Guard Devin Harris is not with the team, and the Mavs have ruled him out against the Houston Rockets on Saturday. Harris is dealing with a heartbreaking family matter as his brother was killed in an auto accident on Thursday. Head coach Rick Carlisle is unsure when Harris will return to the team and the organization is giving Harris as much time as he needs. Both Yogi Ferrell and J.J. Barea will see an increase in minutes with both Harris and Dennis Smith Jr. inactive on Saturday. Gian Clavell played 10 minutes off the bench on Friday, and could see a similar amount of minutes against Houston.
Elfrid Payton PG | ORL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Orlando Magic have ruled point guard Elfrid Payton out for Saturday's matchup against the Cavs. Payton injured his hamstring in Friday's loss to the Nets. He was unable to return in the second half and hamstring injuries have a habit of lingering. Right now Payton is considered questionable for Tuesday's game, but the Magic want to wait and see how he progresses. D.J. Augustin or Shelvin Mack will likely share time at point guard on Saturday. Augustin is the better fantasy option as he saw 23 minutes on Friday, and Mack played just 10.
Brandin Cooks WR | NE |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New England Patriots wide receiver Brandin Cooks is on pace to have the best season of his career. Through the first six weeks of the season, he has accumulated 472 yards and two touchdowns on 24 receptions. Though he has bouts of inefficiency occasionally, he is still one of the most productive fantasy options nonetheless. Cooks has slowly built a solid rapport with quarterback Tom Brady and has been targeted 41 times on the year, only one behind running back James White and tying him with tight end Rob Gronkowski and wide receiver Chris Hogan . Though the Atlanta Falcons, the team's Week 7 opponent, have held up well defensively this season, Cooks blazing speed makes him a threat to any team that he goes up against.
Kenny Britt WR | CLE |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Cleveland Browns have several key players listed as questionable as they get set to take on the Tennessee Titans in Week 7. Kenny Britt , the team's most experienced receiver, is in danger of missing his third consecutive game. Starting safety and return man Jabrill Peppers is also questionable with a toe issue. The most worrisome injury is that of cornerback Jason McCourty. McCourty twisted his ankle during practice on Thursday and did not participate on Friday. He has been the team's best cornerback by a far measure this season. If he were to miss, give a bump to the Tennessee passing offense in Week 7.
Tom Brady QB | NE |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady will look to continue his efficient fantasy season against the Falcons on Sunday night. Though Brady has thrown two interceptions on the season, he has combated that by throwing 13 touchdowns, good for the second-best in the league heading into Week 7. He also has passed for 1,959 yards and has maintained an adequate 106.9 passer rating. Even at 40-years old, he is still one of the best fantasy quarterbacks despite playing with an offense that has been plagued by injuries this season.
Chris Hogan WR | NE |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New England Patriots wide receiver Chris Hogan (ribs) expects to play against the Falcons. Hogan took a shot in the ribs during the matchup against the Jets in Week 6 and was significantly impacted as a result, posting only one reception for four yards on the day. Despite his inadequate performance against New York, he still remains one of the most efficient options around, accumulating 24 receptions and five touchdowns on the year. Atlanta has faired relatively well this season from a fantasy perspective and has given up only 750 yards and five touchdowns to opposing wideouts. However, the Patriots offense has a tendency to make even the best defenses look bad so it wouldn't be a surprise to see another spectacular performance from Hogan on Sunday night.
Rex Burkhead RB | NE |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New England Patriots running back Rex Burkhead (ribs) practiced in full on Friday and subsequently was removed from the team's official injury report. Burkhead hasn't played since the Week 2 matchup against the New Orleans Saints, a game in which the ex-Bengal had three receptions for 41 yards and a touchdown. His potential presence against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday creates a welcoming dilemma as the team will be loaded with backs who are all capable of producing efficient numbers. However, from a fantasy perspective, Burkhead could take away targets from running backs Dion Lewis and James White , who have both been featured in the passing game throughout the season.
Terrance West RB | BAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Baltimore Ravens running back Terrance West (calf) has been ruled out for Week 7. He is not really a fantasy factor at the moment but his absence matters by how it affects others. Javorius Allen and Alex Collins benefit slightly from not having West carve a few carries away from them. The change is not enough to change their outlook but it was worth noting. West has another problem looming as Danny Woodhead could be returning very soon.
Willie Snead WR | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Willie Snead will enter Week 7 with a questionable designation due to a recurring hamstring issue that kept him out of one game already this season. He has been limited in practice all week, but could still suit up to face the Packers. Even so, he is not worth a lineup spot on fantasy teams. Snead only took the field for 21 snaps and caught one of three targets in his first action of the season in Week 6. There is little chance he makes a major impact, if any.
Jordan Matthews WR | BUF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Buffalo Bills wide receiver Jordan Matthews practiced in full on Friday, a good sign that he is on track to play in Week 7 against the Buccaneers. He is still officially listed as questionable, just two and a half weeks after having surgery on his right thumb. If he is able to play it remains to be seen how effective he is, however, he should be in good shape to lead the team in targets and also has a positive matchup as the Buccaneers have struggled against the pass this season. It appears that Matthews' official status will likely remain up in the air until Sunday afternoon, so don;t count on him as a fantasy option this week. However, if he is able to go, Matthews serves as an under the radar sleeper for those in serious need of options at wide receiver.
Marshawn Lynch RB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Oakland Raiders running back Marshawn Lynch has been suspended one game by the NFL for his role in an on-field fracas Thursday night against the Chiefs in which he made contact with and pushed an official. He will appeal the suspension, and a hearing is expected to take place early next week, according to a source. The good news is we should know whether Lynch will be able to play in Week 8 or not by early next week. Lynch has been a big fantasy disappointment and essentially is a touchdown-dependent RB3/flex. Plan to be without him next week against the Bills. That'll make Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington waiver wire options for the running back-needy. Neither will be more than a desperation flex option if Lynch's suspension holds up, but Richard has a little more appeal in PPR setups.
Aaron Rodgers QB | GB |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Updating a previous report, the Green Bay Packers are holding out hope that quarterback Aaron Rodgers (collarbone), who was placed on the Injured Reserve on Friday, can return Dec. 17 against the Panthers, according to a source. However, it may be a long shot. That would be Week 15, or the fantasy semifinals. It really would be a long shot, but not out of the realm of possibilities. Fantasy owners shouldn't be quite as optimistic, and you shouldn't feel forced to hang onto him, especially in shallower leagues. Brett Hundley is taking over starting duties. He is a high-risk, high-reward second quarterback. The Packers should be expected to lean more heavily on the ground game in the absence of Rodgers, which favors rookie Aaron Jones and Ty Montgomery .
Dede Westbrook WR | JAX |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Jacksonville Jaguars rookie wide receiver Dede Westbrook (hernia) is eligible to come off Injured Reserve after the team's Week 8 bye, and he could give the offense a needed jolt with Allen Robinson (knee) done for the year. Head coach Doug Marrone said reports suggest Westbrook is on track to return in Week 9. He underwent surgery Sept. 12 to fix a sports hernia and started catches passes on the sidelines last week. Westbrook has been running for two weeks and could return Nov. 5 against the Bengals. The young receiver had a good training camp and preseason but was set back by his hernia. He has a decent amount of upside and will have plenty of opportunity when he returns with Marqise Lee and Allen Hurns not standing out in the passing game. Westbrook is worth a stash in deeper leagues, but there's no guarantee he'll be a fantasy force once he's active.
Stanley Johnson SF | DET |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Heading into Friday's game Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy was unsure if Stanley Johnson would be able to go for Detroit. He did not go through shootaround, but will play Friday despite going 0-for-13 from the field in Wednesday's victory. He was useful besides his shooting, he added four rebounds and two assists in 40 minutes. Unless his back spasms return mid-game expect Johnson to play his full minutes on Friday against the Washington Wizards.
Travis Kelce TE | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
It was an off night for Travis Kelce as far as 2017 standards. He caught 4-of-5 targets for 33 yards and one touchdown in the Week 7 loss to Oakland. He's now caught at least four passes in 6 of his last 7 games. He's averaging 60 yards a game, and should remain a huge part of the Chiefs offense going forward. Denver heads to town in Week 8, and that should mean another good game for Kelce.
Tyreek Hill WR | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Kansas City Chiefs finally found a way to get boom-or-bust receiver Tyreek Hill to explode. He caught 6-of-8 targets for 125 yards and a touchdown in the Chiefs loss on Thursday. This is the first time since Week 1 that Hill has finished with over 100 yards in a game. The biggest play of the game was when Hill caught a 64-yard touchdown in the second quarter. It's going to remain a wild ride for Hill owners as he heads into a matchup against a tough Denver defense.
Albert Almora CF | CHC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Speaking in his closing press confrence of the year Chicago Cubs President Theo Epstein said he told outfielder Albert Almora that would have more of a role going into next year. Almora had a nice sophomore campaign in which he hit .298 with eight home runs and 46 RBI despite starting just 65 games. He was also one of the best pinch-hitters in the league this year. With the Cubs having plenty of positional depth there is reason to believe the Cubs will be working the phones which could help Almora become an everyday player and even a leadoff man. Depending on how things shake out, he is worth keeping an eye on going to next years fantasy draft.
Kareem Hunt RB | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
In Week 6 the Steelers kept running back Kareem Hunt to just 21 rushing yards the whole game. The Raiders had a much more difficult time stopping Hunt as he rushed 18 times for 87 yards in the loss to Oakland on Thursday. It's strange that Hunt continues to put up tremendous numbers, but the Chiefs go ridiculously periods of time without giving him the ball. Regardless, Hunt continues to be an elite player each week whether it's in the pass game or on the ground.
Alex Smith QB | KC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith needed a bounce-back game and he definitely got that on Thursday. He completed 25 of 36 passes for 342 yards and three touchdowns in the loss to the Raiders. Smith now has a perfect 15:0 touchdown to interception ratio after the game on Thursday. His 342 passing yards were the fourth most of his career in a single game. It's safe to say that Alex Smith has been an elite quarterback this season, and is showing no signs of slowing down.
Jake Petricka P | CWS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Chicago White Sox relief pitcher Jake Petricka (elbow) underwent a nerve transposition in his right elbow on Friday. Petricka has been dealing with multiple injuries over the past few season and has only thrown 35 2/3 innings over the past two seasons. He threw to the tune of a 7.01 ERA over 25 2/3 innings this season. He is expected to miss three-to-four months.
Evan Gattis C | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Houston Astros catcher Evan Gattis is the designated hitter and is batting eighth against Yankees starter Luis Severino in Game 6 of the Championship Series on Friday. Designated hitter Carlos Beltran will start on the bench. Gattis has four hits in 14 at-bats (.286) this postseason, but he hasn't gone deep yet and has only one RBI. He actually hit better against righties than lefties in 2017 and had eight of his 12 home runs against right-handers. Still, Gattis is a low-ceiling play against Severino tonight at the bottom of the order for DFS gamers.
Antonio Gates TE | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Future Hall of Fame tight end Antonio Gates looks to be winding down his career, according to his usage by the Los Angeles Chargers. Gates saw a ton of snaps early in the season, but ever since he got the tight end touchdown record, he's been relegated to backup duty behind second-year player Hunter Henry . Henry has flourished with the increased playing time, and Gates has averaged just three targets per game over the last three games. Gates will still see some opportunities and there's no active discussion of him just up and retiring, but it looks like his days of being fantasy relevant have come to a close.
Hunter Henry TE | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Tight end Hunter Henry has become a hot new target for the Los Angeles Chargers, and it looks like the passing of the guard is finally taking place. Future Hall of Famer Antonio Gates was believed to be a threat to Henry's playing time for the 2017 season, but it appears that threat has been mitigated. Early in the season, the team was focusing on getting the tight end touchdown record for Gates, but over the last two games, Henry has played 33% more snaps than him. Now that the team is on board with Henry seeing the majority of the action, he's getting the chance to spread his wings and looking like a star in the making. Henry should continue to be a popular target for Philip Rivers moving forward.
Marcedes Lewis TE | JAX |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Marcedes Lewis and the Jaguars will take on the Colts in Week 7. Lewis has been a fantasy ghost all season, putting up three touchdowns in one game and then disappearing the rest of the season. The Colts defense has given up the eighth most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season and the Jaguars may have to throw more than they would like with the questionable health of rookie standout Leonard Fournette . This could force quarterback Blake Bortles into action and could mean targets for Lewis. But it's not worth the risk starting a tight end that isn't even seeing the targets in an offense that is averaging 178 passing yards a game. Lewis is a stay-away for Week 7.
Zach Miller TE | CHI |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Zach Miller and the Bears will take on a Panthers defense that has allowed four touchdowns to opposing tight ends this season. Miller has scored the past two weeks and has averaged 9.2 fantasy points a game in standard scoring during that span. His touchdowns have been about as fluky as it gets scoring on a trick play and off a tipped pass. But Miller is the most established receiver in an offense bereft of outside play makers and a rookie quarterback that is leaning heavily on the tight end position. He may not have the most appeal in PPR-leagues, but is a decent bet to catch another touchdown against a Panthers defense that can be beaten. Miller is a TE2 with upside for Week 7.
Melvin Gordon RB | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon will be looking to continue his recent TD streak when he faces Denver in Week 7. Gordon has been a fantasy monster the last two weeks, racking up four touchdowns (three of them from receptions) and 313 yards from scrimmage. Gordon struggled on the ground against the Broncos in Week 1, but he did snag five catches and a receiving touchdown in the game. With his recent increase in receptions, expect him to be active as a checkdown against the strong defensive line of Denver. While he'll likely struggle on the ground once again, Gordon should still be involved enough to be a worthwhile starter.
Philip Rivers QB | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Los Angeles Chargers came up tantalizingly short against the Broncos in Week 2, and Philip Rivers will be out to get revenge when Denver comes to town in Week 7. Rivers threw for three touchdowns in the loss earlier this season, but he only amassed 192 passing yards against a strong Broncos defense. This time around, Rivers will likely turn to his new go-to receivers Melvin Gordon and Hunter Henry to help keep the Denver pass rush at bay. After the Broncos made the Giants look like superstars last week, Rivers should be licking his chops.
Ed Dickson TE | CAR |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Ed Dickson and the Panthers will line up with the Chicago Bears in Week 7. After two surprisingly strong fantasy stat lines, Dickson came back to earth last week. The Panthers will line up with a Bears defense that has allowed only two touchdown catches to opposing tight ends this season. Outside of a broken play from Falcons tight end Austin Hooper in Week 1, the Bears have been pretty stingy against the position. Dickson will be a risky, touchdown-dependent fantasy option this Sunday.
Hassan Whiteside C | MIA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Center Hassan Whiteside was an absolute beast on Wednesday against Orlando. He scored 26 points with 22 rebounds in 36 minutes, but will miss Saturday's game with a bone bruise. The Heat have officially ruled Whiteside out after he bumped knees with Nikola Vucevic in Wednesday's loss. The organization is not yet sure of the severity of the injury. The team has not announced who will start for Whiteside. Bam Adebayo will likely draw the start at center, but stay tuned for more information as the game approaches.
Carlos Correa SS | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa went 2-for-12 in the three games in Yankee Stadium, as the Astros now need to win to stay alive in the ALCS. The series has rapidly switched in momentum and the Astros are now scrambling for answers. What better place to find solace than Carlos Correa , their All-World shortstop. Correa went 3-for-7 in the two wins in Houston to open the series and is 6-for-19 with two home runs and seven runs batted in during the Astros five wins in the postseason. Bottom line? If Correa can produce at the plate, the Astros will take the series to seven games.
Zach Randolph PF | SAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Sacramento Kings have announced that Bogdan Bogdanovic is out with an ankle injury Friday, but the good news is that Zach Randolph will return to the lineup. He missed Wednesday's opener due to oral surgery, but is expected to start alongside Willie Cauley-Stein on Friday. Skal Labissiere started in place of Randolph on Wednesday and scored 12 points with 10 rebounds in 33 minutes. The return of Randolph means less minutes for Labissiere and Kosta Koufos . Expect Randolph to get his full minutes and be ready to roll against the Mavs.
Clayton Kershaw P | LAD |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Clayton Kershaw came out after the sixth inning of the Game 5 win over the Cubs on Thursday, and lines up to start Game 1 of the World Series on Tuesday in L.A. He'll be on regular rest, which is how he likes it. The Astros and Yankees are still fighting to determine who will represent the American League. On the Yankees squad, only one player has hit better than .235 (Matt Holliday ) against Kershaw, and the only player to homer off him is Chase Headley (1). Should Houston advance, Kershaw will have to contend with Jose Altuve and Carlos Correa , who have hit .400 and .333 respectively against him. No one on the Astros has ever homered off Kershaw.
Bogdan Bogdanovic SG | SAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Sacramento Kings have ruled out guard Bogdan Bogdanovic , for Friday's game against the Mavs, but it's not all bad news. He's dealing with an ankle injury, but was able to go through 3-on-3 work on Friday. The Kings don't want to rush anything, and will take it slow with Bogdanovic. He should be back into the rotation soon, and Buddy Hield will likely eat up a few additional minutes until Bogdanovic returns to the court.
Jose Altuve 2B | HOU |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Jose Altuve and the Astros will look to stay alive when they take on Yankee right-hander Luis Severino in Game 6 Friday night. Altuve has been the most consistent offensive force for the Astros this season and he has extended that to the postseason. Altuve has zero hits over his last 10 at-bats but is slashing .394/.500/.667 through 33 postseason at-bats. Altuve is still looking for his first run batted in during the ALCS and Game 6 is the perfect platform to put some points on the board.
Corey Seager SS | LAD |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Corey Seager will be ready to go for Game 1 of the World Series in Los Angeles on Tuesday, according to Dave Roberts. Seager was left off the NLCS roster as he dealt with a back sprain from Game 3 of the NLDS versus Arizona. The Dodgers did fine without him, starting Chris Taylor and Charlie Culberson in his place. Seager did not travel with the team to Chicago. He instead got an epidural and has been slowly ramping up his mobility. Look for him to slide back into second in the batting order. He's 3-for-11 in the postseason, with four walks, two RBI and a stolen base.
Keenan Allen WR | LAC |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen (shoulder), who is listed as day-to-day after falling and hurting his shoulder in practice Thursday, is "very hopeful" that he'll play in Week 7 against the Broncos, according to head coach Anthony Lynn. Allen could be a game-time decision in an afternoon game, so you'll need to have alternatives available if you own Allen. But if he does play, even in a tough matchup, Allen should be considered a solid WR2.
Raul Neto PG | UTA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Utah Jazz have cleared point guard Raul Neto to play in Friday's game versus Minnesota. Neto was sidelined in Wednesday's season opener against the Pistons due to a left leg issue. Neto will serve as backup to Ricky Rubio , and Rodney Hood is also expected to return on Friday. This doesn't have too much fantasy impact right now besides the fact that Donovan Mitchell will see significantly less minutes with the return of Neto.
Joe Flacco QB | BAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Baltimore Ravens owners Steve Bisciotti defended quarterback Joe Flacco and the team's stagnant offense through six weeks. The owner also placed his faith in head coach John Harbaugh and general manager Ozzie Newsome. Flacco has always been a much better real-life QB than fantasy one, and this year he's been atrocious either way. The 32-year-old hasn't thrown for 300 yards once this year and hasn't even topped 250 yards while throwing four touchdowns to eight interceptions. In a tough matchup on the road against Minnesota in Week 7 with Jeremy Maclin (shoulder), Mike Wallace (back) and Benjamin Watson (knee) beat up, Flacco is a bottom-barrel QB2.
Jimmy Graham TE | SEA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Seattle Seahawks tight end Jimmy Graham has the fifth-most targets per game amongst TEs in the game this year, and he should be a prime target in Week 7 against the Giants. New York is allowing 13.87 fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends, the most allowed by any team in 2017. With Graham being targeted more than eight times per game over his last three games, he should have an opportunity to have his first big breakout game of the season. He'll also be looking to continue the TD streak he started against the Rams in Week 5. Graham should be a prime play this week.
Deandre Washington RB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
With starter Marshawn Lynch getting ejected from the game in the first half, the Raiders turned to the duo of DeAndre Washington and Jalen Richard to carry the mail in the second half, with Washington tallying nine carries for 33 yards, three catches for seven yards, and a rushing touchdown. Washington had trouble catching the ball throughout the night, as he is the less apt towards being a third-down 'back between the two, but did get the goalline carries, showing incredible determination on his touchdown run, breaking several tackles. If rumors of Lynch receiving a suspension for his antics prove true, Washington may be worth a pickup in deeper leagues.
Daniel Murphy 2B | WSH |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Nationals announced on Friday that Daniel Murphy had surgery on his right knee. He intends to rehab in the offseason and there's no word yet on whether or not it will affect his readiness for spring training. Murphy had a typically excellent season, though his strikeouts went up in the final two months. He slumped badly in the NLDS, however, getting only four hits in 19 AB. Three of those hits came in the final two games of the five-game series. Murphy turns 33 on April 1st and is in the last year of his contract with the Nationals. He's consistently among the worst fielders at his position, so a trade to an American League team that would strictly DH him isn't impossible to imagine should the Nationals fail to contend in 2018.
Jalen Richard RB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
After Marshawn Lynch was ejected from the Raiders Week 7 win against Kansas City, the Raiders employed a two-man backfield of Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington . While Richard did not receive any goalline carries, he did lead the duo in yards, logging 31 yards on nine carries and 45 yards on four catches. While Richard only received one more touch than Washington, he out-gained him by 35 yards and is the far more effective pass-catching back. Should Marshawn Lynch be suspended for touching a ref during a scuffle, Richard is the more valuable 'back in PPR formats and would be worth a pickup.
Russell Wilson QB | SEA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson has had a week off to rest and recover from the first part of the season, and he's now got a golden opportunity against a weak pass defense. While the Giants are known for their strong defensive line, their secondary has been one of the most forgiving this season, allowing 11 passing touchdowns through the first six games. This is the second-most in the conference, and with Wilson's variety of passing options and floundering running game, he should be expected to take advantage. A shadow looms over him in the form of a nearly nonexistent offensive line, but if anyone can overcome such a burden once again, it's Wilson.
Michael Crabtree WR | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
After being the only bright spot for the Raiders the first six weeks, Michael Crabtree finally got outshined. Crabtree finished fourth on the team in yards, but did catch the game winning touchdown, bringing his totals on the day to three catches for 24 yards and the aforementioned touchdown. Crabtree was a smaller part of the gameplan this week, especially so once Amari Cooper got hot early in the game, so his fantasy numbers took a temporary dip. However, Cooper blowing up is great news for Crabtree, as he will consistently get inferior coverage as teams begin doubling Cooper again. Crabtree will remain a solid WR2 going forward.
Dwayne Bacon SG | CHA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Charlotte Hornets are giving guard Dwayne Bacon another chance in the starting lineup on Friday. The team has announced that Bacon will start against the Hawks on Friday. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist remains out due to personal reasons which opens up a spot for Bacon in the starting lineup. In the season opener Bacon scored eight points, two triples, two assists, and two rebounds. He saw 20 minutes on the court, but didn't look great in the loss to the Pistons. The fact he's starting makes him an interesting fantasy option, but hard to trust Bacon until he proves he can be consistent.
Ezekiel Elliott RB | DAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The NFL reportedly has no interest in settling with Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott regarding his pending six-game suspension. Previous reports stated that the two sides had been "talking about" a settlement to finally bring the saga to an end, but more recent reports have shown that the NFL is confident that its punishment will be upheld, and therefore sees no need to settle. Elliott is likely to miss games this year, but it's becoming increasingly more difficult to predict when that will occur.
Derek Carr QB | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
After looking like the ghost of his former self for four weeks, Derek Carr , Franchise QB showed his face once again as the Raiders pulled off the upset against the Chiefs Week 7. Carr threw for 417 yards and three touchdowns, adding 15 yards on the ground as well. Carr was active in the pocket, and while he had a few throws get away from him, he was locked in during crunch time and threw three potential game winning touchdowns that were called back due to penalty. This seemed to be a big turning point for the Raiders and it can be expected that they return to 2016 form moving forward.
Graham Gano K | CAR |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Carolina Panthers place kicker Graham Gano is dealing with soreness in his knee but is expected to play in Week 7 against the Bears. Gano has made 15 of 16 field goal tries so far this season and has missed one of his 12 extra point tries. He's more of a low-end fantasy kicking option this weekend while being a little banged up on the road in Chicago.
Jared Cook TE | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
In the Raiders comeback win against the Chiefs Week 7, Jared Cook finally had a breakout game, logging six catches for 107 yards. Cook could have had a touchdown, but he was ruled down at the half yard line on a long bomb to potentially win the game, and as well had a high pass bounce off his hands in the endzone a few plays later. Regardless of Cook's inconsistency, he was a big part of the Raiders aerial attack and, assuming this was the Raiders' return to form, should remain a productive, bottom-half TE1 moving forward.
Breshad Perriman WR | BAL |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Breshad Perriman (concussion) missed practice all week and has been ruled out for Week 7 against the Vikings. Perriman has been far from fantasy relevance this season, catching only four passes for 26 yards in six games in 2017.
Amari Cooper WR | OAK |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
After I infamously demanded fantasy owners bench Oakland Raiders wide receiver Amari Cooper on Thursday night, Cooper went on a warpath, logging an 11-210-2 stat line -- career highs for both TDs and yards. Cooper did most of his damage in the first quarter, but remained active in the Raiders' pass game throughout, especially when drawing a DPI call late in the fourth quarter to get the Raiders in range to score. Cooper still struggled with drops and consistency, but when he was needed he came to the Raiders' rescue. The Raiders looked like the Raiders that were expected this year, and if they can continue, Cooper may finally live up to his draft spot.
Domantas Sabonis PF | IND |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
The Indiana Pacers have announced that center Myles Turner is out due to a concussion. Forward Domantas Sabonis will draw the start on Friday versus Portland with Turner unable to play. Sabonis scored 16 points, with seven rebounds, and one assist in the victory over the Nets on Wednesday. He's a good option tonight, but hard to trust him long-term especially once Turner returns to the court. Sabonis went 7-for 7 in 19 minutes on Wednesday, and if he can keep that up he'll be in for a big night.
Ted Ginn WR | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New Orleans wide receiver Ted Ginn is coming off his best game as a Saint with 66 yards and a touchdown in Week 6. That doesn't assure he will repeat that performance, even against the shaky secondary of the Packers. Willie Snead is back, assuming his hamstring doesn't keep him out of action, and the Saints may not find themselves needing to pass as much with Aaron Rodgers on the shelf and inexperienced Brett Hundley taking his place. Ginn is a prototypical boom-bust play that may or may not return much on your investment. He's going to be TD-dependent for value, so only roll with him if you don't have safer options.
Michael Thomas WR | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas had a huge letdown in Week 6 against the Lions with just 11 yards on the day. That is unlikely to happen again this Sunday. Thomas will face a Packers team that is without an elite cornerback, which has given Thomas trouble this season, and that has allowed the 10th-most receiving yards to the WR position. Before Week 6, Thomas put up excellent PPR numbers in the previous three games against lesser secondaries and this should be no exception. Keep Thomas locked in as a high-end WR1.
George Kittle TE | SF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
After nearly scoring a touchdown in Week 6, George Kittle faces a Dallas defense that is currently 29th in DVOA according to Football Outsiders in Week 7. Kittle displayed his instant connection with college turned pro quarterback CJ Beathard seeing eight targets in Week 6. Expect him to be heavily involved this week in a game where the 49ers should be trailing. He is a low-end starting option this week in all formats.
Pierre Garcon WR | SF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Coming off a second double digit target week in a row, Pierre Garcon is looking for another target heavy performance against the Dallas Cowboys. The 49ers are a near touchdown underdog at home and facing the 23rd ranked DVOA pass defense according to Football Outsiders which should lead to production for Garcon. He will be a WR3 in standard formats and low-end WR2 in PPR formats heading into Week 7.
DeMarco Murray RB | TEN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Updating a previous report, Tennessee Titans running back DeMarco Murray (hamstring) said he'll be a game-time decision for Week 7 against the Browns. "We'll see how I feel. I'm going to get a good warmup in before the game and see how I feel and then make a decision from there," Murray said. He has been bothered by hamstring injuries since training camp, and the Titans will likely give more work to Derrick Henry in this game, regardless of whether Murray plays or not. Murray is shaping up as a risky RB3/flex play this weekend.
Josh Doctson WR | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Washington Redskins wide receiver Josh Doctson has splashed in limited work to begin the season, scoring in two of his last three games and narrowly missing a third, game-winning TD against the Chiefs that would have made it three, despite playing only a 37.5% snap share over that span. Coming out of the team's Week 6 nail-biter against the 49ers, head coach Jay Gruden said the team will "actively expand" his role. While it's a bit too forward thinking to consider Doctson a safe play at Philadelphia in Week 7, Doctson has an opportunity to step into a featured role for a team that, in spite of tremendous QB play from Kirk Cousins , has gotten essentially nothing out of the WR position to this point. The 2016 first-rounder out of TCU should be high on the list of stash candidates in deeper leagues as he has legitimate top 20 WR upside going forward and it could start as early as this week, as no WR on the roster has yet distinguished himself as a true #1 option.
Alvin Kamara RB | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara continues to grow more involved with the offense and has a chance to do even more in Week 7. Kamara carried the ball 10 times for 75 last week, both new highs in his young NFL career. It's no coincidence these came the week that Adrian Peterson was dealt to Arizona and starting RB Mark Ingram knows it. "With A.D. going to AZ, having a chance to prove what he has to do, it was just a chance for me and A.K. to step up and prove that we can carry this run game and be explosive play-makers for this team." With a matchup against a Green Bay Packers team reeling from injuries, Kamara could see even more run and should be starting in all PPR leagues.
Stefon Diggs WR | MIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs (groin) has been ruled out for Week 7 against the Ravens. It's his second straight absence, and he missed a full week of practice. Adam Thielen was targeted over 10 times last week and should see another heavy workload, making him a must-start against Baltimore. Tight end Kyle Rudolph 's outlook also improves as a strong TE1.
Michael Floyd WR | MIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Michael Floyd (hamstring) returned to a limited practice Friday but is questionable for Week 7 against the Ravens. It looks like Floyd has a good chance to play after missing practice the previous two days. However, even with Stefon Diggs (groin) out again, Floyd is a desperation dart throw as a flex in deeper leagues. He's caught just two passes for 24 yards in his two games so far this year.
Devante Parker WR | MIA |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Updating an earlier report, Miami Dolphins wide receiver DeVante Parker has appeared on the team's injury report as doubtful for this Sunday. Parker hasn't shown enough improvement in his sprained ankle to be a full go for Week 7. The team will incorporate Jakeem Grant into the receiving corps and lean on Jarvis Landry and Kenny Stills more. Make sure Parker is on your bench if he isn't already.
Carlos Hyde RB | SF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Coming off a two-touchdown week, San Francisco 49ers running back Carlos Hyde is looking for more of the same in Week 7 at home against the Cowboys. The Cowboys currently are dead last in DVOA against the run according to Football Outsiders, so Hyde should be able to be effective in his carries on Sunday. If the game script goes sour for the 49ers, Hyde has seen six targets in four out of his six games this season. He is a solid RB2 in all formats this week with upside for more.
Paul Perkins RB | NYG |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New York Giants running back Paul Perkins (ribs) and defensive end Olivier Vernon (ankle) have both been ruled out for Week 7 against the Seahawks. Perkins has now missed two straight games and has fallen all the way to the bottom of the running back depth chart due to his injuries and poor performance. He can be left to the waiver wire. Vernon continues to be bothered by his ankle injury, and his continued absence is bad news for New York's overall production on defense.
Jamison Crowder WR | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Washington Redskins wide receiver Jamison Crowder is now riding an ignominious streak of 10 straight games of 52 yards or fewer, and 9 straight without reaching the endzone. In a week that opened with a monster slump-buster performance from much-maligned Amari Cooper , we're reminded never to say never, but it's hard to envision a circumstance where Crowder owners will be anxious to get him into the lineup in Week 7, even in an apparently good matchup against an Eagles team surrendering the fifth most points to opposing WRs. Crowder has dealt with injuries to his hip and hamstring during the early part of the season and one has to wonder if he's physically right. In any case, he should be well off of fantasy radars until we see some signs of life.
Charles Clay TE | BUF |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Buffalo Bills tight end Charles Clay (knee) could return to play this season after suffering a serious knee injury two weeks ago, according to head coach Sean McDermott. There remains no timetable for Clay's return, though, but he might be worth picking up and stashing in deeper leagues if you're desperate at the tight end position. With Clay out, Jordan Matthews (thumb) looks likely to return this week as Buffalo's top receiving threat.
Drew Brees QB | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees is always a must-start for fantasy owners and this week is no different. The Green Bay Packers have numerous injuries on defense, especially in the secondary, leading some to rank Brees as the top QB play of Week 7. His passing numbers have gone down the last two weeks as his defense has stepped up, but he's still playing as efficiently as ever. New Orleans ranks third in offensive DVOA, while Brees is fourth in passer rating and adjusted net yards per attempt. Brees should find no problem carving up the Pack on Sunday. The only concern might be game flow, if Brett Hundley fails to generate offense and allows the Saints to get ahead early. As of right now, that shouldn't be a mitigating factor. Brees should be a lock for top 10 QB numbers, if not much higher.
Mark Ingram RB | NO |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New Orleans Saints running back Mark Ingram enjoyed his best game of the season by far in Week 6, rushing for 114 yards and two touchdowns. With the ailing Green Bay Packers on deck and the spectre of Adrian Peterson gone, Ingram could be considered a top 10 RB play. He will be highly motivated this week for another reason - he hasn't had the best memories at Lambeau Field in his career. In the first game of his career, Ingram was held to 40 yards and stuffed on a potential game-tying touchdown at the end of the fourth quarter. "I definitely want to go back to Lambeau and have a success story as opposed to the last couple times I've been there," Ingram said. He could very well get that success story against a Packers defense ranked 24th against the run.
Terrelle Pryor WR | WAS |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Washington Redskins wide receiver Terrelle Pryor will be facing a Philadelphia defense that is surrendering the fifth most points to fantasy WRs on Monday night. Though he hasn't surpassed three catches in any of his past four games, he did catch 6 of 11 balls thrown his way for 66 yards against these same Eagles in Week 1. It's hard to argue that he's even a trustworthy flex play at this point, but the matchup is right and Kirk Cousins is playing brilliant football. It's hard to imagine the Redskins continuing to get essentially nothing out of their perimeter WRs and Pryor is still playing the vast majority of snaps. Although it will take more faith than most fantasy owners have at this point, Pryor is a dark-horse for a big Week 7 game.
Sterling Shepard WR | NYG |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (ankle) is listed as questionable for Week 7 against the Seahawks. Shepard sat out in Week 6 but looks to be ready to return in a tough matchup against Seattle. However, with expected heavy volume if he suits up as the team's No. 1 receiver, he'll be in consideration as a WR3.
Sam Bradford QB | MIN |
RotoBaller News and Updates
10/21/17 7:48pm
Minnesota Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer thinks quarterback Sam Bradford (knee) will play again this year. Bradford has played in only one full game because of his knee issues, and that was the season opener. While he could play again this year, he remains without a timetable for a return and didn't practice at all this week. That's bad news for him with Teddy Bridgewater (knee) returning to practice this week and games possibly in the near future. Bradford deserves to be on the waiver wire in all leagues and may never get the starting gig back in Minnesota.
Amidst a dominant season, Stephen Strasburg draws a favorable matchup against the Reds and should be considered a must-start. Check out daily fantasy expert Ricky Sanders’ recommended plays to help you fill out your roster for today’s MLB.
Infield:
Ben Zobrist, Cubs (Early) – After posting underwhelming numbers in the Minor Leagues since basically the beginning of the 2014 season, opposing starter Edwin Escobar’s Major League numbers in his one start pretty accurately reflected his talent level (or lack thereof). In his first big league start at home against the Astros, Escobar only lasted 3.1 IP with seven ER (eight total), 11 baserunners and he struck out just two. Well, let’s just say the matchup won’t get any easier for him on Saturday as he’ll go from facing the 10th ranked offense in terms of wOBA against LHP to the fourth…the Chicago Cubs. Of all players who have registered at least 13 ABs versus the handedness, four are currently sporting wOBAs of at least .392 but the only regular in the top four is none other than Ben Zobrist. In 45 ABs versus the handedness this season, Zobrist has produced a .430 wOBA, .200 ISO and .356/.453/.556 slash line. It’s not like this year’s numbers have come out of nowhere considering he ranks second on the team behind only Dexter Fowler in terms of career wOBA versus lefties as well. To top it all off, Zobrist slashed .406/.483/.653 in the month of May with six HRs and 25 RBIs so he’s certainly feeling good at the plate right now. Lock and load Zobrist, and really most Cubs, into your lineup on the early slate as they look primed to explode.
Adrian Gonzalez, Dodgers (Late) – Adrian Gonzalez isn’t having a terrible season (.294, five HRs and 27 RBIs) but he’s only on pace for about 16 HRs and 86 RBIs, which isn’t up to his usual standards. Gonzalez improved upon his numbers in May and it’s only a matter of time until his usual mid-20s level of HR power shows up as well. On Saturday, Gonzalez faces an ideal matchup against Mike Foltynewicz and his .421 wOBA allowed to LHHs in what should be a perfect time to spark the power. Not only is Foltynewicz allowing a .302/.351/.673 slash line to lefties so far this season but those numbers are almost identical to his career totals allowed of .319/.369/.612 to the handedness. Even though Foltynewicz has shown improvement this season, he still has not been able to figure out how to retire left-handers and Gonzalez is the prime suspect to make him pay in this game. Not only is Gonzalez and his .294/.371/.412 slash line so far this season worthy of cash game consideration, but I think his multiple extra-base hit upside deems him an excellent GPP play as well.
Outfield:
Christian Yelich, Marlins (Early) – Only six players in the National League (NL) have hit for a higher AVG so far than Christian Yelich (.320): Daniel Murphy
(.394), Ryan Braun (.348), Ben Zobrist (.339), Aledmys Diaz (.328) and teammate Marcell Ozuna (.327). While Bartolo Colon has only allowed more than three ERs in a start one time this season, his pitching style just assures a total beat-down is on the horizon. Colon leads the league in fastball percentage (86.9-percent) and pounds the strike zone at the second highest rate (55.2-percent ranks second behind only Steven Matz) so his 3.39 ERA is due to regress closer to his 3.96 career mark eventually. One guy who will not let him get away with his style is Christian Yelich. To this point in 2016, Yelcih owns a .410 wOBA versus RHP and is slashing a formidable .321/.416/.512. The aspect of this matchup I really dig about Yelich is the fact that he has enjoyed success versus Colon before as he is 7-25 off of him (.280) with three extra-base hits and three RBIs. Assuming Colon pounds the strike zone once again, expect Yelich to put some nice swings on the ball as per usual. Although Yelich does not possess the upside of, say, Zobrist, he is a perfect target for cash games as it’s hard to imagine he wouldn’t reach base multiple times in this matchup (and possibly score multiple runs).
Franklin Gutierrez, Mariners (Late) – On Thursday evening, the Mariners were trailing 12-2 after five innings…they then went on to stun the Padres by scoring 12 runs in two innings to emerge victorious and win 16-13. This offensive display marked the second time in two games the Mariners reached 16 runs and it’s clear they’re clicking on all cylinders right now. One guy who never seems to get enough love is Franklin Gutierrez hitting out of the two spot in the order against LHP. Sure he is mostly a platoon guy but he has mastered his craft; he sports a .384 wOBA, .204 ISO and .296/.391/.500 slash line against the handedness in 54 ABs this season. According to ESPN Park Factors, Globe Life Park in Arlington has ranked as a top five hitters’ park over the past two seasons, which results in a gigantic positive ballpark shift for the entire Mariners offense (compared to Safeco Field which is the absolute worst hitters’ park in the American League (AL)). Probable starter Martin Perez has allowed five HRs this season and all have come off the bats of RHHs. Somehow, someway Gutierrez’s price never comes close to approaching $8,000, so until that time he needs to continue to be deployed against all susceptible LHPs.
Pitcher:
Clayton Kershaw, Dodgers (Late) – Using Vegas lines is useless for starts involving Clayton Kershaw because he is always listed as a gigantic favorite. In a matchup at home against the team that has produced by far the lowest wOBA against LHP so far this season, Vegas probably couldn’t set a money line high enough to accurately depict Kershaw’s true odds to win this game. The Braves literally rank dead last in all of the following categories against southpaws in 2016: wOBA, wRC+, ISO, AVG and OBP. Additionally, they have struck out at a rate of 23-percent and all their top hitters are left-handed. As if that weren’t enough to convince you, opposing starter Mike Foltynewicz struggles against LHHs and nearly all of the Dodgers’ best hitters are left-handed and should be poised for productive games. Fading Kershaw almost never makes sense in cash games but fading Kershaw anywhere on Saturday would be a huge mistake.
Stephen Strasburg, Nationals (Early) – If the NL weren’t so damn stacked with top starting pitchers, maybe Stephen Strasburg’s magical season would be receiving more coverage from the national media. Somewhat quietly, Strasburg sits at 9-0 through 11 starts with a 2.69 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 4.50 K/BB and 11.00 K/9. Apparently the days of Strasburg routinely blowing leads and frustrating those who attempt to roster him are a thing of the past. On Saturday afternoon, he’ll have a chance to keep the momentum going against a lowly Reds offensive squad. Not only have the Reds struck out at 21.8-percent against RHP but they rank in the bottom 10 of wOBA, wRC+, BB rate, AVG and OBP against the handedness. Essentially, there are hardly any matchups more favorable than squaring off against the Reds for a RHP in the NL, and there are only one or two more talented pitchers in the league. If you do not roster Strasburg in this game, you are missing out on a potential gem, and could be drawing dead without him (due to his likely 75-plus percent ownership in cash games).
Steven Wright, Red Sox (Early) – I do not know how we got here but we now live in a world where a knuckleballer is consistently worthy of consideration in cash games. Amazingly, both Steven Wright’s 2.45 ERA and 1.06 WHIP rank sixth best in the AL. Wright’s superb season began with back-to-back quality starts against the Blue Jays…one of which was played in Boston and one was played in Toronto. All of the Blue Jays’ active hitters combined own a career .234 AVG/.298/.286 slash line against Wright in 77 ABs with only one HR and three RBI. Last season, it would be crazy to contemplate using a pitcher against Toronto but my how the times have changed. As a whole, the Blue Jays rank as a neutral matchup against the handedness but they do rank in the bottom 10 of AVG and strike out at the seventh highest rate. Unless Wright implodes early, which he has yet to do this season, his K floor should provide a fair degree of safety. Using him isn’t for the faint of heart but the benefit should outweigh the risk.
*Stats are accurate as of Friday, June 3
