As the MLB edges closer to the heart of the season, many teams are approaching a significant benchmark: their 100th game. This milestone offers a moment to reflect on player performances and team strategies, which have been evolving since Opening Day.
Cody Bellinger's Power at the Plate
Cody Bellinger has made substantial contributions to his team with long balls this season. In 79 games, Bellinger has cleared the fences nine times. This follows a noteworthy performance last season where he hit 26 home runs over 130 games. While his home run rate has slightly dipped, his prowess at the plate remains an essential asset.
Nolan Arenado's Struggles
Nolan Arenado, often celebrated for his reliable offense, is experiencing the lowest OPS of his career at .702 this season. This is a significant drop from his usual output, raising questions about what adjustments might be needed to get him back on track. His performance is being closely monitored as he navigates these uncharacteristic struggles.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Consistent Performance
Bobby Witt Jr. showcased his talent recently, going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a run scored in a Saturday matchup. His consistent ability to contribute offensively is a bright spot for his team and hints at his potential to develop into a cornerstone player.
Alex Bregman's Recent Surge
Alex Bregman has been on an impressive run since July 4, hitting .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and 10 runs scored over 13 games. This hot streak has translated into an .885 OPS in that same span, underscoring his value in the lineup. Bregman's career numbers against left-handed pitching are solid, with a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS, and he'll need to sustain this level of performance to help drive his team's success.
With the Athletics set to start left-handed pitcher Hogan Harris, who has a career 5.53 ERA, Bregman's performance against lefties becomes even more critical. Bregman's pricing on daily fantasy sports platforms reflects his recent form, standing at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel, making him an appealing option for fantasy managers.
J.P. Crawford: A Mixed Bag
J.P. Crawford's season has been a tale of two splits. Against left-handed pitching, Crawford is hitting .284 with an .805 OPS and has four home runs in 88 at-bats, demonstrating his capability against southpaws. However, his overall performance has shown signs of struggle; he's currently experiencing the lowest batting average (.204) and OPS (.643) of his eight-year career.
Despite these challenges, Crawford remains a noteworthy option in fantasy lineups, particularly when factoring in his recent history against certain pitchers. His career performance against Tyler Anderson, for instance, includes a respectable 3-for-10 with two walks. His pricing stands at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,000 on FanDuel, making him another player to watch closely, especially as he navigates through his current slump.
Expert Endorsements
The insights and endorsements from industry experts also play a crucial role in shaping perceptions and strategies. McClure, recognized in the book "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," has endorsed rostering J.P. Crawford, despite his statistical downturn this season. This endorsement suggests a belief in Crawford's ability to turn things around and provide valuable contributions moving forward.
As teams and players hit the 100-game marker, the coming weeks will be pivotal. Observers and fans will be looking for signs of resilience, strategic adjustments, and standout performances that can influence the outcomes of the season. Whether it's through the consistent power hitting of Cody Bellinger, the rebound potential of Nolan Arenado, or the recent surge from Alex Bregman, these narratives contribute to the ever-evolving storylines that make baseball such a gripping sport. With expert endorsements and detailed analysis, fans and managers alike are well-equipped to navigate the exciting second half of the MLB season.