Outlook Jake Mangum
Jake Mangum’s blazing hot streak and elite speed make him an enticing weekly target.
Mangum has been on fire recently, batting .500 with three stolen bases over his last five games for the 34-32 Pirates, who currently sit third in the NL Central. Since returning from a hamstring injury, he has locked down a regular role in the outfield, primarily starting in right field. His blazing speed and elite defensive play have quickly made him a key contributor in Pittsburgh.
While his current .500 average over the last week is unsustainable, Mangum's strong contact skills are backed by a track record that includes a .296 average and 27 steals last season. Our models project a highly useful .272 average with 12 stolen bases over 338 projected at-bats, showing that his speed is a legitimate fantasy weapon. Expect some batting average regression, but the base-stealing upside is real.
The Pirates have a six-game home slate this week, starting with three games against the Dodgers before hosting the Marlins. Mangum faces some challenging arms like Justin Wrobleski, but gets favorable matchups against Eric Lauer and Sandy Alcantara. With his current hot hand and elite speed-producing upside, he is an excellent option for fantasy managers needing a category spark. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Alec Burleson
Alec Burleson's hot bat makes him a must-start corner infielder for the rolling Cardinals
Burleson has been on fire, batting .375 with six runs and five RBIs over his last six games. His surge has helped propel the second-place Cardinals to a four-game win streak. Firmly established as the everyday starter at first base, he faces no playing-time threats and continues to bat in a premium lineup spot.
While his recent 1.069 OPS will normalize, Burleson's underlying profile is rock-solid, as shown by a career-matching .290 mark over 62 games this season. Our models project him to finish with a .268 batting average and 16 home runs, proving that his outstanding contact skills are no fluke.
The Cardinals embark on a six-game road trip against the Mets and Twins. He will face tough arms like Joe Ryan and Christian Scott, but gets a highly favorable matchup against Minnesota's Connor Prielipp and his 5.15 ERA. With six starts on tap, lock him into fantasy lineups as a weekly Start.
Updated 1 day ago
