Outlook Chandler Simpson
Rays speedster Chandler Simpson looks to shake off a minor injury scare and a cold stretch.
Chandler Simpson remains the everyday left fielder for the first-place Tampa Bay Rays, who boast a 36-20 record in the AL East. Over his last 14 days, the speedster has hit just .229 with zero stolen bases. He also gave fantasy managers a brief scare on May 31 by pulling up with a left leg issue, though he remained in the game and avoided the injured list.
This dry spell should not worry managers, as Simpson's underlying numbers suggest a quick recovery. Our models project him to finish the season with a strong .282 average and 44 stolen bases, mirroring the .286 average and 14 steals he has already accumulated this year. His elite contact profile ensures this slump is merely a temporary blip.
Tampa Bay has six games scheduled this week against Detroit and Miami. While Simpson faces tough pitchers like Ty Madden, he also gets a highly favorable matchup against Jack Flaherty and his 6.08 ERA. With six starts on tap and immense category-winning speed, he is a locked-in option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
Latest News Chandler Simpson
Outlook Jorge Mateo
Jorge Mateo's Red-Hot Surge Demands Fantasy Attention in Atlanta's Elite Lineup
Jorge Mateo has been tearing the cover off the ball, hitting .370 with three home runs and five steals over his last 30 days. He provides a massive spark for the first-place Braves, who lead the NL East with a stellar 40-20 record. Though currently serving as a utility backup in the middle infield, his hot bat is earning him regular playing time.
While Mateo's .316 average is highly encouraging, regression is likely on the horizon. Our models project him to hit .221 rest-of-season, which aligns with his career .221 and .229 marks. While his elite speed remains a constant threat, fantasy managers should treat this high-average stretch as a temporary hot streak rather than a permanent skill growth.
The Braves have six home games this week against Toronto and Pittsburgh. Mateo will face tough matchups in Kevin Gausman (3.26 ERA) and Braxton Ashcraft (2.77 ERA), but he gets excellent opportunities against Patrick Corbin (3.65 ERA) and Bubba Chandler (5.02 ERA). Given his blistering form, he is a strong play this week. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
