MLB Top Hitters 7/19/24

Today’s MLB slate is packed with intriguing matchups and plenty of opportunities to find those key hitters that can make or break your lineup. Let’s dive into the top three DFS hitters for today’s games, followed by a couple of under-the-radar picks that could provide the edge you need.

Top 3 DFS Hitters

1. Aaron Judge (New York Yankees)

Matchup: Yankees vs. Rays, 7:05 PM ET at Yankee Stadium

Aaron Judge is an absolute beast, and today he’s facing Zach Eflin, a righty who has shown some vulnerability, especially to power hitters like Judge. Eflin’s splits reveal that he struggles a bit more against right-handers, with a .163 ISO and a .281 xwOBA. Judge, on the other hand, is crushing it against right-handed pitching this season with a .346 ISO and a .456 xwOBA.

Key Insights:

• Power: Judge has immense power, reflected in his .346 ISO.
• Plate Discipline: Despite a 26.8% strikeout rate, his 17.1% walk rate ensures he gets on base frequently.
• Ballpark Factor: Yankee Stadium is known for being hitter-friendly, especially for right-handed power hitters.

Given these factors, Judge is primed to deliver a monster performance tonight.

2. Yordan Alvarez (Houston Astros)

Matchup: Astros vs. Mariners, 10:10 PM ET at T-Mobile Park

Yordan Alvarez is another top play, facing off against Luis Castillo, a solid pitcher but one who has allowed a .215 ISO to left-handed hitters. Alvarez boasts a .292 ISO and an impressive .445 xwOBA against right-handed pitchers.

Key Insights:

• Power: Alvarez has elite power numbers, especially against righties.
• Consistency: With a 15.4% strikeout rate and a 13.7% walk rate, Alvarez is a reliable source of points.
• Matchup: Castillo’s tendency to give up power to lefties aligns perfectly with Alvarez’s strengths.

Expect Alvarez to take advantage of this matchup and put up big numbers.

3. Rafael Devers (Boston Red Sox)

Matchup: Red Sox vs. Dodgers, 10:10 PM ET at Dodger Stadium

Rafael Devers is set to face Gavin Stone, a right-hander with some vulnerabilities. Devers has been excellent against right-handed pitching this season, with a .286 ISO and a .416 xwOBA.

Key Insights:

• Power: Devers’ .286 ISO shows his ability to hit for power.
• Matchup: Stone’s .290 BABIP and 4.32 SIERA indicate he might be overperforming, which Devers can exploit.
• Consistency: Devers’ low strikeout rate (18.5%) and high walk rate (11.9%) provide a solid floor.

Devers should be able to capitalize on Stone’s weaknesses and deliver a strong performance.

Under-the-Radar Plays

1. Riley Greene (Detroit Tigers)

Matchup: Tigers vs. Blue Jays, 7:07 PM ET at Rogers Centre

Riley Greene is facing Chris Bassitt, a pitcher who has struggled against left-handed hitters. Greene has a .232 ISO and a 14% barrel rate against righties, making him a sneaky good play today.

Key Insights:

• Matchup: Bassitt’s .203 ISO allowed to lefties is something Greene can exploit.
• Power: Greene’s power against righties makes him a threat in this matchup.
• Under-the-Radar: Greene’s lower ownership could provide a unique edge in GPPs.

2. JJ Bleday (Oakland Athletics)

Matchup: Athletics vs. Angels, 9:40 PM ET at Oakland Coliseum

JJ Bleday offers a lot of upside against Griffin Canning, a pitcher who has given up a .179 ISO to left-handed hitters. Bleday’s .180 ISO and solid plate discipline make him a great under-the-radar option.

Key Insights:

• Power: Bleday’s .180 ISO against righties positions him well in this matchup.
• Plate Discipline: His 12.6% walk rate ensures he gets on base frequently.
• Matchup: Canning’s struggles against lefties make Bleday an appealing play.

These under-the-radar picks can be the difference-makers in your lineup, providing the unique edge needed to stand out in DFS contests.

Final Thoughts

Today’s slate is filled with potential, and by focusing on these top hitters and under-the-radar plays, you can maximize your DFS lineup’s upside. Remember to consider the matchups, ballpark factors, and player splits to make the most informed decisions.

Good luck, and may your lineups be profitable!