Outlook Paul Goldschmidt
Goldschmidt's hot streak provides a power boost as the Yankees continue their playoff push
The veteran first baseman is swinging a hot bat, hitting .296 with a home run and five RBI over his last seven days, building on a strong .304 average over the past month. Goldschmidt is firmly locked in as the everyday starter at first base for the second-place Yankees, who hold a strong 36-23 record. With designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton currently sidelined on the injured list, Goldschmidt’s role in the middle of the New York lineup remains incredibly secure.
While Goldschmidt's recent power surge—already matching more than half of last year's 10-homer total in just 34 games—has been a pleasant surprise, some regression is likely on the horizon. Our models project a .259 rest-of-season average and seven additional home runs over 433 projected at-bats. Fantasy managers should ride the hot hand but expect his power pace to settle back toward his projected .413 slugging percentage as the summer progresses.
The Yankees play a six-game homestand this week, welcoming Cleveland and Boston to the Bronx. Goldschmidt faces a challenging slate of opposing pitchers, including Gavin Williams and Sonny Gray, who both boast sub-3.10 ERAs, though a matchup against Slade Cecconi and his 5.25 ERA offers a prime opportunity to drive in runs. Given his excellent current form and locked-in playing time, he is a confident lineup option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
Latest News Paul Goldschmidt
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
