George Springer-Astros-OF
George Springer was 0-4 with a strikeout in the Astros win against the Orioles. Springer has had a slow start out of the gate. He is hitting .214 with 1 HR, 4 R, and 5 RBI. His walk rate has remained a plus but striking out has been his problem (27% K). Springer's breakout 2017 season was fueled by his improved strikeout rate. It is a really small sample size but something that is worth watching if it continues. Springer will continue to lead off for one of the league's best offenses so the time to buy would be now before he gets hot. He is still hitting the ball hard (47%), which suggests that things will be turning around sooner rather than later.
Dylan Bundy-Orioles-SP
Dylan Bundy went 6 IP and gave up 1 ER on 5 H, 2 BB, and 8 K's against the Astros. Bundy has been fantastic so far this year. He has thrown 13 IP and has 15 K's to 3 BB's. Bundy saw a large increase in strikeouts in the second half of last year jumping from 19% to 27%. He also improved his command from 8% to 6% BB. Bundy has picked up where he left off with an increase in the use and effectiveness of his slider. The American League East and Camden Yards are not the best places to pitch but Bundy is showing the skills necessary for success with increased strikeouts and improved control.
Shohei Ohtani-Angels-DH
Shohei Ohtani was 2-5 with his second home run which was a shot to center field off Corey Kluber. After looking overmatched in Spring Training Ohtani has looked good in his 12 plates appearances. He has six hits (.429 AVG), two home runs (.429 ISO), and three strikeouts (25%). It is a small sample size of course but he is flashing the skill set that had everyone drooling over the off-season. When it comes to fantasy, he simply isn't going to play enough to have any real value. It also increases the risk of injury, which is a big concern for the pitching side given his low innings total last year. Regardless, it will be interesting to see how the Angels manage his playing time going forward.
Jake Odorizzi-Twins-SP
Jake Odorizzi went 4.1 IP and gave up 3 ER on 5 H, 3 BB, and 2 K's against the Pirates. Odorizzi could not match the success he had in his first start. He struggled with his control and was given the quick hook. This game was played in extremely cold temperatures with snow falling throughout. This one can be forgotten given the conditions. For Odorizzi, it comes down limiting home runs (1.88 HR/9) and improving his strikeout rate. In this one, Odorizzi gave up a home run to Josh Bell. In his first start, he used his curveball 18% of the time, which could be an answer to improving his strikeout rate. This is worth watching moving forward with this game not having a whole lot of meaning given the circumstances.
DFS Value Play
Scott Kingery-Phillies-2B, 3B
First things first, check the Phillies lineup to make sure that Kingery is playing. Kingery is far more valuable at 2B than 3B in your DraftKings lineups. He is hitting .308 through 13 PA. While he has not delivered on his potential in a big way yet he does possess the ability to go yard and steal a base, which is extremely valuable in DFS. He went 26 HR and 29 SB across the minor's last year and at some point that talent is going to play at the major league level. He is facing a LHP in Caleb Smith that struggles with command and hard contact. DraftKings: $3,200
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