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
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Outlook Nick Gonzales
Nick Gonzales battles knee soreness ahead of a demanding road trip
The third-place Pirates (32-28) are currently monitoring Nick Gonzales, who remains day-to-day after exiting a game late last week with left knee discomfort. When healthy, he is entrenched as the everyday starter at third base and has been a reliable contributor, though his bat has cooled slightly to a .255 average over his last 12 games.
While his current .303 season average represents a massive step forward from previous seasons, our models expect some regression toward his projected .259 baseline. His power has also dipped recently, with only one home run over his last 24 games, suggesting his hot start is beginning to level out.
Pittsburgh faces a tough six-game road trip against Houston and Atlanta, featuring matchups against tough arms like Spencer Arrighetti (1.34 ERA) and Spencer Strider. With Gonzales battling knee soreness and facing a gauntlet of premium pitching on the road, it is wise to keep him benched. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 3 days ago
