Outlook Curtis Mead
Curtis Mead's power surge makes him a must-start infielder this week
Curtis Mead is on fire, hitting .286 with three home runs and eight RBIs over his last seven days. The second-place Nationals are currently riding a two-game winning streak with a 31-29 record. Mead has secured a regular role in the lineup, functioning as the team's primary starting third baseman while providing depth at first base.
This hot streak highlights a major breakout season for the 25-year-old, who has already blasted eight home runs over 45 games in 2026 after hitting just five combined over his first three MLB seasons. Our models project him to keep hitting for power, with an expectation of 10 more home runs over his remaining projected at-bats. His strong .359 on-base percentage suggests this breakout is sustainable.
The week ahead features a six-game slate split between home matchups against Miami and a road trip to Arizona. He faces some vulnerable pitching, including Sandy Alcantara and Merrill Kelly, who both carry ERAs over 4.70, though tougher matchups against Eduardo Rodriguez and Max Meyer loom. Our projection expects a .268 average and another home run this week, making him a strong fantasy option. Start him with confidence.
Updated 3 days ago
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Outlook Sal Stewart
Reds rookie Sal Stewart remains an elite, must-start fantasy option amid a scorching hot stretch.
Sal Stewart continues his spectacular rookie campaign, batting .341 with two home runs over his last 14 days. The fifth-place Reds (30-28) have leaned heavily on the young infielder, who currently slots in as the primary starter at third base. His everyday role remains highly secure, especially with teammate Elly De La Cruz currently questionable with a hamstring injury.
While his 30-day average of .250 showed minor rookie adjustments, this recent surge is fully supported by our data. Our models project a season-long line of 18 home runs, 10 stolen bases, and a .263 batting average over 430 at-bats. His advanced plate approach and history-making power output indicate this hot streak is entirely sustainable.
The Reds play six games this week, drawing highly favorable matchups against vulnerable Kansas City starters like Luinder Avila (5.06 ERA) and Noah Cameron (4.61 ERA) before heading to St. Louis. With plenty of run-producing opportunities on the horizon, Stewart is a locked-in fantasy option this week. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
