As Major League Baseball nears the 100th game mark for many teams this season, several players and matchups are drawing significant attention. Cody Bellinger's power at the plate, Nolan Arenado’s struggles, and Alex Bregman’s recent hot streak are just a few of the storylines worth monitoring closely. Additionally, J.P. Crawford's performances against varying pitching styles present intriguing dynamics as the season progresses.
Bellinger's Power Numbers
In 79 games this year, Cody Bellinger has hit nine home runs. This stands in contrast to last season, where he managed to hit 26 homers in 130 games. While his current numbers reflect a slight downturn, Bellinger's ability to deliver explosive at-bats remains a critical component for his team’s offensive strategy as they strive to secure a playoff berth.
Arenado's Uncharacteristic Season
Nolan Arenado, a player typically known for his offensive prowess, is experiencing the lowest OPS of his career at .702. This downturn is unexpected and correlates with his overall performance this season. For someone who has consistently been a cornerstone in the lineup, Arenado’s struggles are both surprising and concerning. Analysts and fans alike are hoping for a mid-season rejuvenation from the star player to help lift the team's performance.
Bregman's Blazing Hot Streak
Alex Bregman has been on an absolute tear since July 4th, hitting .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and scoring 10 runs over 13 games. This hot streak has resulted in Bregman posting an .885 OPS, a testament to his impactful presence at the plate. Known for his robust career performance against left-handed pitching—which includes a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS—Bregman remains a critical asset for daily fantasy sports enthusiasts.
Fantasy players should take note of Bregman’s current price, set at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel. His consistent performance can provide a valuable return on investment, especially given his recent form. The Athletics are scheduled to start left-handed pitcher Hogan Harris on Monday, a player with a career ERA of 5.53, which could spell further opportunity for Bregman to capitalize.
Crawford's Mixed Performance
J.P. Crawford presents a mixed bag this season. On one hand, he has been effective against southpaws, batting .284 with an .805 OPS and hitting four home runs in 88 at-bats. His overall numbers against right-handed pitchers include five home runs in 206 at-bats, showcasing his flexibility at the plate. However, Crawford is currently experiencing the lowest batting average (.204) and OPS (.643) of his eight-year career, suggesting a broader slump in his performance.
Despite these struggles, McClure, prominently recognized in the book "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," endorses rostering J.P. Crawford. Priced at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,000 on FanDuel, Crawford's decent performances against left-handed pitchers make him a potential sleeper pick. Notably, Crawford has a career record of going 3-for-10 with two walks against Tyler Anderson, an encouraging sign for fantasy managers considering his addition.
Approaching the 100th Game Milestone
As teams approach their 100th game of the season, finding and exploiting statistical trends can lead to significant advantages both on the field and in the realm of fantasy sports. Players like Bregman and Crawford exhibit specific skills that can be leveraged in favorable matchups, despite overall season challenges.