As Monday approaches, the MLB season is reaching a significant milestone, with many teams poised to play their 100th game. This benchmark provides a natural opportunity to take stock of players' performances, highlighting both the standouts and those struggling to find their groove. In this context, several players have drawn attention with their notable statistics and on-field feats.
Bellinger's Power at the Plate
Cody Bellinger, a key offensive player, has hit nine home runs in 79 games this year. This tally contrasts with his performance last season, when he managed 26 home runs in 130 games. Bellinger's power at the plate continues to be a critical asset for his team, and as the season progresses, fans will be keen to see if he can replicate or surpass his performance from the previous year.
The Struggles of Nolan Arenado
On the other hand, Nolan Arenado is facing challenges this season, currently holding a .702 OPS. This figure represents the lowest OPS of his career, signaling a need for the star third baseman to make adjustments to regain his typical form. Known for his offensive and defensive prowess, Arenado's ability to bounce back will be essential for his team's success in the upcoming games.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Momentum
Meanwhile, Bobby Witt Jr. continues to impress with his recent performance, going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a run scored in their Saturday matchup. Witt's offensive surge is a positive indicator for his team, showcasing his growth and potential as a key player in the lineup.
DraftKings and FanDuel Insights
Turning to fantasy baseball insights, Alex Bregman stands out with a price of $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel. Bregman has been on a hot streak since July 4, hitting .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and 10 runs scored over 13 games. His .885 OPS in this period is a testament to his offensive consistency.
Bregman's career performance against left-handed pitching is also noteworthy, with a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS. This sets up a favorable matchup as the Athletics are scheduled to start LHP Hogan Harris on Monday. Harris has a career ERA of 5.53, which could provide an advantageous scenario for Bregman to continue his recent success.
J.P. Crawford's Fantasy Value
J.P. Crawford, another player of interest in fantasy circles, is priced at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,000 on FanDuel. Crawford's career performance against pitcher Tyler Anderson includes a respectable 3-for-10 with two walks, underlining his ability to find success in specific matchups.
This season, Crawford is batting .284 with an .805 OPS against southpaws, contributing four home runs in 88 at-bats against left-handed pitchers. Additionally, he has five home runs in 206 at-bats against right-handers. Despite experiencing the lowest batting average (.204) and OPS (.643) of his eight-year career, Crawford remains a viable option for fantasy rostering.
McClure, an authority recognized in the book "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," endorses rostering J.P. Crawford. His endorsement adds an expert layer of validation for fantasy players considering Crawford in their lineups.
As the MLB season moves into the latter stages, these players' performances will be under the microscope. For teams contending for a playoff spot, the contributions from stars like Bellinger, Arenado, Witt, Bregman, and Crawford could be pivotal. Whether through long balls, clutch hits, or solid defensive plays, each player's ability to rise to the occasion will be a key narrative to watch as the season progresses.
With Monday marking the 100th game for many teams, fans and analysts alike will be paying close attention to these players and their impact on the race to the postseason. The interplay of statistics, form, and matchups offers a fascinating dimension to the sport, reinforcing why baseball remains a game of endless analysis and excitement.