Mookie started getting his groove back yesterday going 3-for-6 with a HR. Betts is having a phenomenal year and should end up as a top 5 player when it's all said and done. The power numbers (19 HR) are somewhat suspect as the HR% is significantly higher than he's posted historically, but he's making such excellent contact that I don't see a big fall off coming. Given his average and SB, he's putting up an MVP season - except for that Trout guy.
Rick Porcello went 7 scoreless innings, lowering his ERA to 3.44 on the season. Ironically, Porcello's peripherals are actually better than two years ago when he took home the Cy Young. His most favorable statistic has to be wins, of which he's already racked up 9. At the end of the day, Porcello doesn't overly excite me, but the results are legit. We should likely see a K rate around 8.5 per 9 with a 3.5-3.70 ERA the rest of the way. Playing for the Sox, he should flirt with 20 wins.
Kyle Gibson allowed 2 ER yesterday over 6 IP against the Red Sox while walking 3 and striking out 5. Gibson has surprised many with the strikeouts - which seem legit given his 11.2% SwStr%. However, he's walking nearly 4 per 9 innings, which will limit his overall effectiveness. His SIERA sits above 4.11 vs. a 3.27 ERA (entering yesterday). For these reasons, Gibson seems best fit on the waiver wire and can be used as a spot starter in favorable matchups only.
Clint Frazier has remained with the Yankees, most recently batting leadoff yesterday. He was 2-for-4 on the day. If he can stick with the big club, Frazier is a definite add in most leagues. He sported a 167 wRC+ in AAA before getting called up. He'll have some ups in downs in the majors, but if he's batting atop of the Yankees lineup, he'll put up some great counting stats. I'm buying, but keep in mind the playing time may not be there for long.
James Paxton labored through 5 innings, allowing 4 ER in the loss, though his did strike out 9. Paxton allowed 4 flyballs yesterday, unfortunately two left the yard (both in the first inning), which has been his Achilles heel all season. The results have been solid so far, but should get even better for Paxton rest of season. Hold onto him and enjoy a solid second half.