As the Major League Baseball season heads into its 100th game for many teams, various player performances are drawing significant attention. A close examination of some key players reveals intriguing trends and noteworthy statistics, shaping the narrative of the ongoing season.
Cody Bellinger's Power Potential
This season, Cody Bellinger has made a mark with nine home runs over 79 games. Comparatively, last season saw him hitting 26 home runs over 130 games. While his current home run tally is impressive, it raises questions about his potential for the rest of the season. Can Bellinger maintain his power surge to possibly exceed his previous year's performance?
Nolan Arenado's Uncharacteristic Struggles
On a contrasting note, Nolan Arenado is experiencing the lowest OPS of his career with a .702 mark this season. This decline is unexpected for a player of Arenado's caliber, known for his consistent offensive contributions. Observers and fans alike are waiting to see if he can bounce back and elevate his performance to align with his career averages.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Consistency
Bobby Witt Jr. continues to add value to his team, going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a run scored in a recent Saturday matchup. His ability to deliver in key moments underscores his importance and the promise he holds for the future.
Alex Bregman's Offensive Uptick
Since July 4, Alex Bregman has been on a tear, batting .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and 10 runs scored over 13 games, boasting an impressive .885 OPS. This resurgence couldn't be timed better as he faces LHP Hogan Harris, who has a career 5.53 ERA. Bregman's career stats against left-handed pitching are compelling, with a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS. These numbers suggest a likely continuation of his hot streak, making him a crucial player to watch.
J.P. Crawford's Intriguing Matchup
J.P. Crawford presents a fascinating case with his performance against left-handed pitchers this season. He is batting .284 with an .805 OPS against southpaws, hitting four home runs in 88 at-bats. This contrasts with his performance against right-handers, where he has five home runs in 206 at-bats. Crawford's satisfactory stats against LHP Tyler Anderson (3-for-10 with two walks) also add an exciting angle to this matchup.
Despite experiencing the lowest batting average (.204) and OPS (.643) of his eight-year career, McClure, a notable figure recognized in "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," endorses rostering Crawford. This endorsement is likely based on Crawford's historical performance and the perceived potential for a turnaround.
Strategizing for Success
Strategic fantasy sports enthusiasts will closely monitor these players, especially given their varied price points on platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel. Alex Bregman is quoted at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel, while J.P. Crawford is pegged at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,000 on FanDuel. These valuations reflect their recent performances and expected contributions.
As teams and players prepare for pivotal games ahead, their performances will heavily influence both the outcomes on the field and the strategic decisions of fantasy sports enthusiasts. With the season progressing into its crucial phase, the pressure mounts, and every game, hit, and pitch becomes increasingly significant.