Outlook Carson Benge
Carson Benge remains red-hot as the primary right fielder in Queens.
The rookie outfielder is on an absolute tear, hitting .311 with four home runs and nine runs scored over his last 14 days. This surge has solidified his everyday role in right field for the fifth-place Mets, who currently sit at 29-38. Despite the team's struggles and an injured list featuring star shortstop Francisco Lindor, Benge's elite contact has provided a massive spark.
While Benge's recent .313 batting average over the past month is spectacular, our models suggest a modest regression toward his projected .270 season average. Still, our season projection of 10 homers and 10 steals represents a highly sustainable, balanced floor. His plate discipline and excellent outfield defense will keep his lineup spot secure, making this breakout look highly legitimate.
Looking at the remaining matchups this week, the Mets finish their series with the Cardinals against Hunter Dobbins before hosting the Braves. While facing Spencer Strider and Bryce Elder presents a steep challenge, Benge also gets to target Grant Holmes and his 4.05 ERA. Keep riding his hot hand in all formats. Verdict: Start.
Updated 16 hrs ago
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Outlook Austin Riley
Austin Riley's Deep Slump Collides with Favorable Matchups
The first-place Braves (45-23) continue to lead the NL East, but everyday third baseman Austin Riley is stuck in a deep slump, batting just .128 with zero home runs over his last 12 games. With superstar outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr. recently landing on the injured list with a hamstring strain, Atlanta desperately needs Riley to snap out of his current cold spell and anchor the middle of the lineup.
While his current .206 season average is discouraging, our models expect Riley to normalize closer to his established career standards, projecting him for 22 home runs and 80 RBIs by season's end. His underlying metrics and history of elite power output suggest this prolonged slump is a temporary outlier rather than a permanent decline, making him a fantastic buy-low target.
Looking at the remaining slate, the Braves finish up with the White Sox on Thursday before a weekend series against the division-rival Mets. Riley gets to face highly vulnerable starters like Anthony Kay (4.58 ERA) and Sean Manaea (5.02 ERA), offering a perfect launchpad to get his bat back on track. Fantasy managers should remain patient and keep him in lineups as a Start.
Updated 16 hrs ago
