MLB Top Hitters 6/17/24

For today’s MLB DFS slate, we’ve identified the top three hitters and two under-the-radar plays that could provide excellent value. Each pick is backed by detailed statistical analysis and insights into their matchups. Let’s dive into the details.

Top 3 DFS Hitters

1. Shohei Ohtani (LAD) vs. Cal Quantrill (COL)
   • Insights:
     • Statistics: Ohtani’s xHR projection is 10.363, indicating his tremendous power potential. His overall xwOBA (.457) and ISO (.375) show that he makes high-quality contact consistently.
     • Matchup: Cal Quantrill struggles against left-handed hitters, allowing a high ISO (.178) and an overall xwOBA of .355. This makes Ohtani, a left-handed power hitter, an excellent play.
     • Ballpark Factor: Playing at Coors Field, known for its hitter-friendly environment, further boosts Ohtani’s upside.
2. Bryce Harper (PHI) vs. Randy Vasquez (SD)
   • Insights:
     • Statistics: Harper’s xHR projection is 12.160, indicating significant home run potential. His xwOBA (.400) and ISO (.213) against right-handed pitchers highlight his power and ability to get on base.
     • Matchup: Randy Vasquez has struggled mightily against left-handed hitters, with an xwOBA of .426 and ISO of .238. Harper’s ability to exploit right-handed pitching makes this a favorable matchup.
     • Ballpark Factor: Citizens Bank Park is a hitter-friendly venue, further enhancing Harper’s appeal.

1. Matt Olson (ATL) vs. Reese Olson (DET)
   • Insights:
     • Statistics: Olson’s xHR projection is 11.970, showcasing his elite power. His overall xwOBA (.398) and ISO (.302) against right-handed pitchers underline his ability to generate extra-base hits.
     • Matchup: Reese Olson has a high xwOBA (.356) and ISO (.149) against left-handed hitters, making Matt Olson a prime candidate to exploit this matchup.
     • Lineup Support: With strong hitters like Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley surrounding him, Olson is in an excellent position to accumulate RBIs and score runs.

Under-the-Radar Plays

1. Nick Martini (CIN) vs. Paul Skenes (PIT)
   • Insights:
     • Statistics: Martini’s ISO (.224) and xwOBA (.319) against right-handed pitchers indicate his potential for extra-base hits.
     • Matchup: Paul Skenes has shown vulnerability against left-handed hitters, with an ISO of .082 and an xwOBA of .226. Martini, a left-handed hitter, can take advantage of these weaknesses.
     • Lineup Support: With power hitters like Elly De La Cruz and Spencer Steer around him, Martini has opportunities to drive in runs and score.

1. Mike Yastrzemski (SF) vs. Javier Assad (CHC)
   • Insights:
     • Statistics: Yastrzemski’s ISO (.222) and xwOBA (.315) against right-handed pitchers highlight his power potential and ability to get on base.
     • Matchup: Javier Assad has a moderate K% (23.4%) and an xwOBA of .325 against left-handed hitters, suggesting he can be hit hard by lefties like Yastrzemski.
     • Ballpark Factor: Wrigley Field can be favorable to hitters, especially with wind conditions that could aid fly balls turning into home runs.

Conclusion

These hitters offer a mix of high-upside plays and strategic under-the-radar options to give you an edge in your DFS contests today. Leveraging players who face pitchers with exploitable weaknesses is key to maximizing your DFS lineup potential. Good luck!