Outlook Brayan Rocchio
Brayan Rocchio's Hot Bat Secures His Spot as a Must-Start Option
Rocchio has been absolutely locked in at the plate, batting .324 with a .405 OBP over his last 14 days for the first-place Guardians. As the everyday starting shortstop with backup Gabriel Arias on the 60-day injured list, Rocchio's playing time is incredibly secure. His excellent play on both sides of the ball is helping Cleveland maintain its division lead despite a current two-game skid.
While Rocchio's current season average of .293 is a massive leap from his career .216 mark in 2024, our models suggest some regression is likely. Our rest-of-season projections expect him to settle closer to a .236 average with modest power. However, his elite contact skills and seven steals over the last month suggest his speed and run-scoring potential remain highly sustainable.
Cleveland hits the road for six games, starting with a challenging three-game set against the Yankees before facing the Rangers. Rocchio faces tough assignments like Gerrit Cole and Jacob deGrom, but also gets favorable matchups against high-ERA arms like Jack Leiter. Given his hot bat and everyday role, he remains a solid option this week. Start him.
Updated 3 days ago
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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
