Julio Teheran (SP-ATL): Julio Teheran tossed 8 scoreless innings and struck out 7 Mets, but the Braves' pen and bats let him down. While Teheran's 3.99 xFIP indicates he has been a bit fortunate, he has also made real strides in 2016. He has increased his K-rate by over 3%, lowered his BB-rate by over 2% thanks to the deployment of a well-rounded arsenal that features a plus pitch value on all 4 of his pitches. The improved arsenal has enabled him to fix two of his biggest issues: his handling of lefties and his navigation of lineups on the road. His upside is a high-end #3 fantasy starter, but one with a very high floor.
Drew Pomeranz (SP-SD): Drew Pomeranz continued what has been a breakout 2016 by tossing 7 scoreless and striking out 6 against the Reds. Yes, the .248 BABIP portends regression, but don't expect much from Pomeranz. He has added that much needed 3rd pitch with the changeup, throwing it 10% of the time to a to a PITCHf/x value of 3.3. Pomeranz's 11.3% swinging-strike rate backs up his 29% K-rate. While a trade out of PETCO looks possible, he has been just as solid on the road and may benefit from a move in the W column. He's a must start in all leagues.
Shelby Miller (SP-ARI): As predicted, the Rockies lit up Shelby Miller at Coors to the tune of 7 earned runs on 11 hits in 6 innings. While the entire fantasy world seems to be jumping ship on Miller, now could be the perfect time to buy low. His mechanics look much better since his return from the DL. As a result, he has only walked 2 in his last 12 and 2/3 innings. His FB velocity is up to 94 MPH. And, he's mixing in more 2-seamers and curveballs, pitches negated by the Coors effect. As he continues to gain confidence in his mechanics and secondary stuff, I see him sequencing more effectively, going deeper into games, and posting top 40-SP value in the second half.
Maikel Franco (3B-PHI): Maikel Franco went 1-for-4 with 2 K's in another lackluster effort against the Giants. While the power production has been on par with 2015's and the preseason projections, the batting average has plummeted. While there has been some misfortune with the BABIP, Franco has upped his swinging strike rate and is making less contact Reports of coachability and make-up issues abound, making his second-half rebound prospects dim. However, keeper leaguers are advised to hold.
Travis Jankowski (OF-SD): The bargain of the day today may rest Travis Jankowski, who FanDuel has priced at $2700 for his matchup with Anthony DeSclafani. TJ has stolen 10 bases in 90 plate appearances and has posted a .348 wOBA against righties. DeSclafani has struggled against lefties the past 2 seasons to the tune of a .350 wOBA and at home to the tune of a .360 mark. If leading off against today, TJ gives you a great way to work in the Kersh.
FanDuel Value Plays:
Aaron Nola ($8100)
Jonathan Villar ($2800)
Billy Hamilton ($2800)
