Outlook Nick Kurtz
Nick Kurtz's historic power surge makes him a must-start corner infielder.
The reigning AL Player of the Month continues his tear, batting .375 with four home runs and seven RBIs over his last six games. His production is vital for the 35-36 Athletics, who sit third in the AL West while dealing with outfielder Brent Rooker's knee injury. Kurtz remains firmly entrenched as the everyday starting first baseman.
While his recent power surge is eye-popping, our models project a robust rest-of-season baseline including 30 home runs and a .269 average. Kurtz's elite eye at the plate supports his current .434 on-base percentage, proving his sophomore success is no fluke compared to his stellar 2025 rookie season.
This week, Kurtz gets a full seven-game home slate against Pittsburgh and Los Angeles. He faces highly favorable matchups against struggling pitchers like Mitch Keller and Grayson Rodriguez, easily offsetting trickier faceoffs against Jose Soriano. Lock him in. Weekly Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
Latest News Nick Kurtz
Outlook Jared Young
Jared Young offers intriguing power depth for the Mets but carries significant batting average risk in a part-time role.
After returning from a knee meniscus tear, Jared Young has provided some pop for the fifth-place Mets, slugging three home runs with seven RBIs over his last 14 days. However, his bat has cooled recently, yielding a .190 average over the last week. With Jorge Polanco sidelined, Young is currently serving as the primary backup at first base and a depth option in the outfield.
While his overall .263 average this year is encouraging, his career baseline—including .186 marks in both 2023 and 2025—suggests his recent success is a temporary streak. Our models project a rest-of-season average of .241 with limited power. Expect regression to his career norms, making him a risky option without everyday playing time.
The Mets play six road games this week, starting with three against the Reds before heading to Philadelphia. Young faces a tough slate of starters, including aces Chase Burns (2.14 ERA), Cristopher Sanchez (1.82 ERA), and Zack Wheeler (2.22 ERA). While matchups against high-ERA pitchers like Brady Singer (5.61 ERA) offer upside, his part-time role makes him a Sit this week.
Updated 1 day ago
