Outlook Lars Nootbaar
Lars Nootbaar’s Return Invigorates Cardinals During Hot Streak
Lars Nootbaar recently returned from the 60-day injured list to provide a crucial spark for the second-place Cardinals, who are currently riding an impressive six-game win streak. In his first five games back on the active roster, he has quickly reclaimed his everyday role in the outfield and has already contributed key hits, including a clutch, go-ahead home run.
While his initial .167 batting average over 18 at-bats reflects a predictable post-injury adjustment period, his superb plate discipline remains fully intact with four walks. Our models project him to finish with a solid .242 average, 10 home runs, and seven stolen bases, suggesting his ratios will quickly rise to meet his career standards.
The Cardinals wrap up their current road trip against Christian Scott before a weekend series in Minnesota against Joe Ryan, Connor Prielipp, and Taj Bradley. Aside from Ryan, these matchups are highly exploitable, particularly Prielipp and his inflated 5.15 ERA. Verdict: Start Nootbaar as his high-OBP leadoff profile will translate directly to runs.
Updated 11 hrs ago
Latest News Lars Nootbaar
Outlook Nick Gonzales
Nick Gonzales slumps over the last week as the Pirates push to stay above .500
Gonzales has cooled off significantly over the last seven days, batting just .174 with no home runs and four runs scored. This slump is a sharp contrast to his superb .311 mark over the prior two weeks. The third-place Pirates (35-33) continue to lean on him as their everyday third baseman, especially with key teammates like Oneil Cruz currently sidelined on the injured list.
Despite his current season average sitting at an impressive .300, our models project regression toward a .259 batting average with eight home runs and 36 RBIs over the rest of the year. This expected slide aligns with his career .262 mark from last season. Without elite power or speed to cushion cold streaks, his fantasy utility remains tied to maintaining a high average.
For the remainder of the week, Pittsburgh faces a tough matchup today against Justin Wrobleski (2.62 ERA, 1.00 WHIP) before a weekend series against Miami, highlighted by a matchup with Sandy Alcantara. Given his current slump and difficult opposing pitching, he is best left on the bench. Weekly Verdict: Sit.
Updated 11 hrs ago
