MLB Top Pitchers 7/4/24

Hey DFS enthusiasts, it’s time to look at the top pitchers for today’s slate. Whether you’re looking for high-priced aces or under-the-radar value plays, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dig into the matchups, key stats, and why these pitchers should be at the top of your DFS considerations.

Top DFS Pitchers

1. Max Scherzer (RHP, Texas Rangers)

• Matchup: vs. San Diego Padres
• Salary: $8,800
• Key Stats:
  • K%: 28%
  • xERA: 3.80
  • xwOBA: .232

Why Scherzer is a Top Play: Max Scherzer remains one of the most dominant pitchers in the league. His strikeout rate of 28% against both righties and lefties shows his consistent ability to miss bats. Scherzer’s control has been solid, with a walk rate of just 7%. The Padres lineup has struggled against high-quality right-handers, giving Scherzer a favorable matchup. Globe Life Field’s pitcher-friendly dimensions also play to his advantage.

2. Cristopher Sanchez (LHP, Philadelphia Phillies)

• Matchup: vs. Chicago Cubs
• Salary: $9,000
• Key Stats:
  • K%: 23%
  • xERA: 3.32
  • xwOBA: .290

Why Sanchez is a Top Play: Cristopher Sanchez has been lights out recently, boasting a 2.94 ERA and excellent strikeout and walk rates. He faces a Cubs lineup that has struggled with left-handed pitching, particularly with strikeouts. Sanchez’s ability to limit hard contact (xwOBA of .290) and induce ground balls (59%) makes him a reliable option. Plus, pitching in Wrigley Field can suppress power numbers, enhancing his DFS value.

3. Framber Valdez (LHP, Houston Astros)

• Matchup: vs. Toronto Blue Jays
• Salary: $7,500
• Key Stats:
  • K%: 23%
  • xERA: 3.72
  • xwOBA: .317

Why Valdez is a Top Play: Framber Valdez’s ability to induce ground balls (57%) and limit walks (7%) makes him a steady DFS option. The Blue Jays have power in their lineup, but Valdez’s ground ball rate can mitigate the home run threat. With a strikeout rate of 23%, he offers decent upside, especially at his price point. His recent performance has been strong, with several quality starts against tough opponents.

Under-the-Radar Plays

1. Michael King (RHP, San Diego Padres)

• Matchup: vs. Texas Rangers
• Salary: $8,400
• Key Stats:
  • K%: 28%
  • xERA: 3.47
  • xwOBA: .310

Why King is a Sneaky Play: Michael King has quietly been one of the more effective pitchers, especially against right-handers, where he has a strikeout rate of 31%. The Rangers lineup, while potent, has shown vulnerabilities to right-handed pitching. King’s ability to control both sides of the plate and limit power (ISO of .131 vs. lefties) makes him a high-upside play. Globe Life Field can also suppress offense, adding to his appeal.

2. Jameson Taillon (RHP, Chicago Cubs)

• Matchup: vs. Philadelphia Phillies
• Salary: $7,300
• Key Stats:
  • K%: 21%
  • xERA: 4.33
  • xwOBA: .302

Why Taillon is a Sneaky Play: Jameson Taillon has had an up-and-down season but offers strikeout potential, especially against a Phillies lineup that can be strikeout-prone. His control against right-handed batters (2.6% BB rate) and ability to limit hard contact (xwOBA of .302) make him a solid value play. The conditions at Wrigley Field can help mitigate some of the power in the Phillies’ lineup, giving Taillon a chance to deliver a strong performance.

These pitchers offer a mix of high upside and value for your DFS lineups today. From proven aces like Max Scherzer to under-the-radar plays like Michael King and Jameson Taillon, there are plenty of options to consider. Good luck, and may your lineups be profitable!