Outlook Kyle Higashioka
Higashioka steps into a temporary starting role for the Rangers, offering modest power potential while Danny Jansen is sidelined.
With primary catcher Danny Jansen currently sidelined on the 10-day injured list with a forearm strain, Kyle Higashioka has assumed everyday duties behind the plate. The veteran backstop has capitalized on the increased playing time, slashing .320/.433/.520 with a home run over his last 14 days. His recent offensive surge has helped support the second-place Rangers as they chase the Mariners in the AL West.
While Higashioka's hot streak over the past fortnight is encouraging, his 30-day average of .250 and projected .225 average suggest regression is inevitable. Historically, his career .223 batting average indicates he will remain a liability in the contact department over the rest of the season. However, our models project nine home runs in limited plate appearances, confirming his moderate power-hitting capability is legitimate.
Texas faces a challenging road stretch to close out the week, featuring matchups against Michael Wacha in Kansas City before heading to Boston to face Sonny Gray, Ranger Suarez, and Connelly Early. All of these opposing pitchers sport ERAs of 3.44 or lower, which will make hits hard to come by for the veteran. Unless you are desperate for catcher depth in deeper leagues, he is best left on your bench. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 11 hrs ago
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Outlook Moises Ballesteros
Young Cubs slugger Moises Ballesteros shows signs of life at the plate but lacks immediate power
The 22-year-old rookie has experienced a cold stretch, batting just .178 over his last 30 days, but he has recently warmed up with a .333 average over the last week. He currently serves as the primary designated hitter for the fourth-place Cubs, who are trying to shake a three-game skid. His role remains steady as the team navigates several key injuries to their active roster.
While his recent power slump is discouraging, our models project a sustainable .261 batting average and a healthy .363 on-base percentage over the long haul. His excellent minor league bat-to-ball skills suggest that his recent multi-hit performances are a sign of real progression back toward his baseline projections.
The Cubs finish their series in Colorado against Ryan Feltner before visiting San Francisco to face Landen Roupp, Trevor McDonald, and Logan Webb. Facing Colorado offers Coors Field appeal, but San Francisco's pitching staff presents several challenging matchups that limit his immediate ceiling. Given the lack of recent over-the-fence power, he is best utilized as a Sit this week.
Updated 11 hrs ago
