Outlook Matt McLain
Matt McLain is catching fire at the plate, making him a must-start middle infield option for the week ahead.
Matt McLain is on an absolute tear, batting .333 with three home runs and three stolen bases over his last five games. His hot streak is a massive boost for a fifth-place Reds squad (32-35) currently playing without superstar shortstop Elly De La Cruz, who is on the injured list with a hamstring strain. With De La Cruz sidelined, McLain is fully locked in as Cincinnati's primary second baseman and top offensive spark plug.
While McLain's .205 season average reflects a sluggish first half, his recent surge is a return to form for a player who racked up 15 home runs and 18 steals last season. Our models project him to restabilize with a .239 average, 12 home runs, and 12 steals by the end of the year. This explosive streak suggests his power-speed profile is finally reverting to his career baseline, making him an excellent buy-low asset.
For the remainder of the week, Cincinnati hosts Arizona for a three-game weekend set. McLain faces tough left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez (2.52 ERA) and a steady Michael Soroka (3.28 ERA) before getting a highly favorable matchup on Sunday against a struggling Zac Gallen (5.81 ERA, 1.56 WHIP). With his bat scorching hot, lock him into your lineups as a high-upside middle-infield option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
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Outlook Bryce Eldridge
Bryce Eldridge Makes History and Demands Fantasy Lineup Consideration Amid Torrid Hot Streak
Bryce Eldridge is dominating, punctuated by a historic walk-off grand slam on June 10 that made him the youngest player in MLB history to accomplish the feat. Over the last 14 days, the 21-year-old is slashing an incredible .426/.509/.766 with three home runs. While the fourth-place Giants sit at 28-41 in the NL West, Eldridge has secured his role as the primary designated hitter.
Our models projected Eldridge for a modest .231 batting average and 10 home runs this season, anticipating typical rookie growing pains. However, his current .298 average and outstanding .389 on-base percentage suggest he is acclimating much faster than expected. While his current hot streak will eventually regress, his excellent plate discipline and elite hard-hit ability make this breakout look entirely legitimate.
Looking at the remaining slate, the Giants host the Cubs for three games. Eldridge will face a tough test Friday against Ben Brown and his stellar 1.74 ERA, but gets a highly favorable matchup Sunday against Colin Rea, who carries a 5.37 ERA. Given his white-hot form and secure spot in the lineup, he is an immediate fantasy asset. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
