This is such a poor slate of pitchers that Max Scherzer may find himself over 50% owned. The Nationals ace is doing everything you’d expect out of him, which is mow down his opponents with the strikeout. Scherzer has boasted a 12.71 K/9 in the last 30 days, which is nearly two full strikeouts more than the next pitcher on the slate. He’s successfully reached double digit strikeouts in four of his last five starts while opponents are hitting a mere .172 off him in that stretch. Tonight he faces the Mets who continue to struggle at the dish. New York ranks 26th in wOBA in the last thirty days while striking out at the ninth highest rate.
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Other than Scherzer (and Salazar), I don’t have much confidence. I suppose Masahiro Tanaka is a viable option. I don’t love the idea of battling the Rangers at Yankee Stadium but our hands are really tied at the moment. Tanaka has been a workhorse for the Yankees, lasting at least six innings in 12 of his last 13 starts, including 10 in a row. His strikeout numbers are not mind blowing, but he’s keeping himself in games with a dazzling 2.47 ERA over the last seven starts. His ability to limit walks (8 over last 47.1 IP) is keeping his opponents out of high leverage situations. Even more impressive, during this seven game stretch he has surrendered just two homers. His ability to keep the ball in the park should come in handy tonight.
It’s always advisable to get exposure to a Coors Field game, but this one is extra special tonight. This matchup with the Rockies and Blue Jays will feature a 12.5 O/U which is tied for the highest recorded total of any game this season. There were six others, of course all taking place at Coors. The total number of runs scored in those six were: 3,8,15,16,16,17. If you read my piece on Listening To Vegas, you’ll know that there is a direct correlation between Vegas odds and fantasy points. If you’re going to fade Scherzer, you might be advised to punt the pitcher position and stock up on this game.
That’s all folks! Be sure to follow me on Twitter for more player analysis and news as starting lineups are released! Commentary based on DraftKings & Fanduel strategy and scoring.