Outlook Michael Busch
Michael Busch stays hot at the plate as the Cubs head into pivotal road matchups.
Michael Busch has been a major bright spot for the fourth-place Cubs (34-34), hitting an impressive .311 with a .392 on-base percentage over his last 14 days. As the everyday starter at first base, his role remains highly secure, especially with backup Tyler Austin sidelined on the injured list.
While Busch's recent surge has helped stabilize his season average at .247, our models project him to finish with 16 home runs and 50 RBIs over 503 at-bats. This is a step back from his 38-homer breakout in 2025, but his current .373 on-base percentage suggests his elite plate discipline is highly sustainable.
The remaining schedule features a final matchup at Coors Field against Ryan Feltner (4.22 ERA) before a three-game series in San Francisco against Landen Roupp and Logan Webb. Given the excellent hitting environment today and decent matchups ahead, he remains a strong play. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
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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 3 days ago
