As the MLB season enters its pivotal phase, many teams are preparing to reach their 100th game milestone. Several key players have shown varying degrees of performance, which are noteworthy as we move deeper into the season.
Cody Bellinger's Rollercoaster Season
Cody Bellinger, the former MVP, has displayed a mixed bag of outcomes this year. Hitting nine home runs in 79 games might seem underwhelming, especially when compared to the 26 homers he chalked up in 130 games last season. The discrepancy serves as a talking point among analysts and fans alike, questioning whether Bellinger can return to his previous form.
Nolan Arenado's Uncharacteristic Struggles
Another player navigating through a challenging season is Nolan Arenado. The star third baseman is currently posting a .702 OPS, the lowest of his career. Known for his consistent offensive prowess, Arenado's slump has raised eyebrows. It's a surprising deviation from his usual elite performance, prompting discussions about his adjustments and future outlook.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Impressive Showing
On a brighter note, Bobby Witt Jr. showcased his potential in a recent Saturday matchup, going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a run scored. Witt's multi-faceted game continues to capture the attention of baseball enthusiasts. Such performances highlight his ability to contribute significantly to his team's efforts on any given night.
Alex Bregman’s Hot Streak
Alex Bregman, priced at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel, has been in sensational form since July 4. Batting .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and 10 runs scored over a span of 13 games, Bregman has accumulated an .885 OPS during this period. His career performance against left-handed pitching is commendable, with a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS. Given this track record, Bregman appears poised to capitalize on upcoming opportunities, particularly against left-handed starters.
One such matchup is against the Athletics’ scheduled starter, LHP Hogan Harris, who holds a career 5.53 ERA. Bregman’s form and historical success against lefties make him a tantalizing option for DFS players and Astros fans alike.
J.P. Crawford's Complex Season
J.P. Crawford, another DraftKings and FanDuel hitter priced at $4,200 and $3,000 respectively, presents an interesting case. This season, he's batting .284 with an .805 OPS against southpaws and has proven to be effective, hitting four home runs in 88 at-bats against left-handed pitchers. In contrast, he has five home runs in 206 at-bats against right-handers.
However, Crawford is experiencing the lowest batting average (.204) and OPS (.643) of his eight-year career, making his overall season a complex picture. Crawford’s career numbers against Tyler Anderson, being 3-for-10 with two walks, suggest that he has the experience to snap out of his current funk. Analyst McClure, recognized in the book "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," endorses rostering J.P. Crawford, hinting at a potential turnaround.
As the season progresses, these individual narratives contribute richly to the larger story of the MLB. Players like Bellinger and Arenado face challenges that could redefine their seasons, while the likes of Bregman and Witt Jr. continue to shine. Observing how these athletes adapt and perform under the spotlight will surely keep fans and analysts engaged.