Outlook Maikel Garcia
Maikel Garcia searches for his rhythm after injury, but a soft upcoming schedule offers a prime rebound window
After recovering from a late-May hamstring strain, the everyday third baseman is searching for his offensive rhythm, batting just .176 over his last six games. His recent slump mirrors a difficult stretch for the fourth-place Royals, who currently hold a 28-40 record in the AL Central. Despite the cold stretch, he remains locked into his everyday spot at the hot corner and serves as the primary backup at shortstop.
Garcia's recent .222 average over the last 30 days is a far cry from his strong .287 mark last year, but his underlying metrics suggest better days are ahead. Our models project him to finish the year with a .267 batting average and 26 stolen bases. Given his proven speed, his recent lack of stolen bases is a fluke, making him a prime buy-low candidate before a positive regression hits.
The Royals close out the week with home matchups against Texas and Houston, drawing highly favorable battles against vulnerable pitchers like Tatsuya Imai and Mike Burrows, who both carry ERAs over 5.20. While Spencer Arrighetti presents a tough Sunday test, the overall slate is soft enough to jumpstart Garcia's bat and running game. Verdict: Start.
Updated 11 hrs ago
Latest News Maikel Garcia
Outlook Kody Clemens
Kody Clemens Sizzling at the Plate as He Solidifies Regular Role with Twins
Kody Clemens is on an absolute tear, boasting a blistering .409 batting average with three home runs and six runs scored over his last seven days. Operating as the primary everyday starter at first base for a third-place Minnesota Twins club currently sitting at 31-38, Clemens has injected much-needed power into the lineup. His recent power surge, which includes launching a home run off a 100.1 mph pitch, has cemented his everyday status.
While his .287 batting average over the last 30 days is a significant asset, fantasy managers should expect some regression toward his projected .230 season baseline and a career average that hovers closer to .210. However, his power output is legitimate; our models project him to reach eight home runs over a limited 230 at-bats, and he has already swiped five bases this year. Though the average will likely dip, his secured playing time makes him a viable corner infield option.
Looking at the remainder of the week, the Twins finish their series in Detroit before heading home to host St. Louis. Clemens faces highly favorable matchups against Detroit's Keider Montero and St. Louis's Kyle Leahy and Matthew Liberatore, all of whom carry ERA marks near or above 3.95 and high WHIP ratios. The only tough test comes on Sunday against Michael McGreevy, making this a great week to ride his hot hand. Verdict: Start.
Updated 11 hrs ago
