Outlook Ben Brown
Ben Brown is locked in as a dominant force in the rotation, making him an easy choice for fantasy lineups this week.
Brown has been sensational lately, posting a microscopic 0.99 ERA and 0.66 WHIP with 18 strikeouts over his last 14 days (18.1 innings). With several Chicago starters sidelined by injuries, the 26-year-old has stepped up as the number two starter for the fourth-place Cubs (34-32). His outstanding control is highlighted by a recent stretch of 200 consecutive plate appearances without allowing a single home run.
This breakout is a massive step forward compared to his tough 2025 campaign, where he struggled to a 5.98 ERA. While our projection model anticipates some regression toward a 3.91 ERA and 1.21 WHIP rest-of-season, his 10.3 K/9 rate over the last month proves his strikeout upside is entirely real. Expect him to remain highly productive even as his ERA naturally normalizes.
Brown is scheduled for a single start on Friday on the road against the Giants and Landen Roupp (4.00 ERA). Given his current momentum and San Francisco's middle-of-the-pack offense, this is a highly favorable matchup for the young righty. Lock him into your lineups as a confident fantasy option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 17 hrs ago
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Outlook Ryan Helsley
Ryan Helsley making significant progress in elbow rehab, remains sidelined for the week.
Ryan Helsley has not played over the last 30 days due to right elbow inflammation, keeping him on the injured list since May 1. The fourth-place Orioles, currently sitting at 31-35, have relied on Rico Garcia in the ninth inning during his absence. However, Helsley is progressing rapidly after throwing successful bullpen sessions and is closing in on a minor-league rehab assignment.
Before landing on the shelf, Helsley logged seven saves with a 2.65 ERA and a stellar 13.24 K/9 rate over 10.2 innings. Our models project him to secure 25 saves with a 3.52 ERA and 1.22 WHIP once he returns to full strength. His elite late-inning potential is entirely real, making him an absolute priority to hold on fantasy benches.
The Orioles host a seven-game homestand against the Mariners and Padres this week, but Helsley will remain sidelined as he works toward official activation. He will face tough hitters once active, but for now, keep him tucked away safely on your injured reserve slot until he completes rehab games. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 17 hrs ago
