Outlook Nico Hoerner
Nico Hoerner looks to shake off a cold stretch at the plate as the Cubs return home for a favorable six-game slate.
Nico Hoerner has hit a bit of a rough patch over the last month, posting a .200 batting average with just four stolen bases and seven runs scored over his last 30 days. He remains the everyday second baseman and a key lineup fixture for the 32-28 Cubs, who currently sit fourth in the NL Central. Despite the quiet bat, Hoerner continues to flash elite defense while maintaining strong playing time security.
While the recent slump is frustrating, Hoerner’s track record suggests a strong rebound is coming. Our models project him to finish the season with a much healthier .281 batting average, 90 runs, and 30 stolen bases, which is right in line with his career norms. Do not panic on the 29-year-old infielder; his high-contact profile and locked-in role mean a positive regression to his established baseline is imminent.
The upcoming week brings a six-game home stand at Wrigley Field starting Tuesday, beginning with a three-game set against the Athletics followed by three against the Giants. Hoerner gets some highly favorable matchups, particularly facing vulnerable arms like Gage Jump (7.20 ERA) and Robbie Ray (4.45 ERA), which should help jumpstart his bat. With elite playing time security and prime opportunities to run, keep him active. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
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Outlook Kazuma Okamoto
Kazuma Okamoto's stance adjustments continue to pay off with massive power, making him a primary source of run production for Toronto.
Okamoto has continued to flash impressive power, swatting two homers and driving in six runs over his last seven games, though his batting average over the last 14 days sits at a chilly .149 with a worrying 24 strikeouts. He remains locked in as Toronto's everyday third baseman as the 29-31 Blue Jays look to snap a two-game losing streak.
While his recent contact issues are concerning, his overall power is completely legitimate, as evidenced by his 12 home runs on the year. Our models project him to hit .249 with 18 more homers over 457 projected at-bats for the rest of the season, and expect his average to climb closer to that projection as his stance adjustments help cut down on whiffs.
Toronto faces a six-game slate this week, starting with a tough road series against Atlanta where Okamoto must navigate aces like Chris Sale and Bryce Elder. Fortunately, the week concludes with more favorable matchups at home against Baltimore's rotation, including Shane Baz. Given his elite power upside, he remains a solid option. Weekly Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
