Outlook Stephen Kolek
Stephen Kolek's Stellar Run Makes Him a Reliable Option for the Injured Royals
Stephen Kolek is on an absolute tear, posting a microscopic 0.74 ERA and 1.24 WHIP over his last 14 days, including a spectacular shutout win on June 14. This hot streak is a massive boost for the fifth-place Royals, who currently sit at 30-45 in the AL Central and have seen their rotation decimated by injuries to Seth Lugo and Cole Ragans. With those arms sidelined, Kolek has confidently secured his place as the number four starter in the rotation.
While Kolek's outstanding 1.90 ERA over the last 30 days is eye-catching, some regression is expected back toward his career baseline, as our season projection forecasts a 4.28 ERA and 1.36 WHIP. However, his strong 2026 campaign with a 2.73 ERA and 1.05 WHIP through 49.4 innings is supported by vastly improved command, evidenced by just 10 walks on the year. This suggests his step forward is legitimate rather than a fluke.
Looking at the week ahead, Kolek is scheduled for a single home start on June 21 against the Cardinals and their starter Dustin May, who carries a 3.75 ERA and a 1.14 WHIP. Given his current momentum and excellent command, Kolek is a highly viable option to deploy in all standard formats. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
Latest News Stephen Kolek
Outlook Griffin Jax
Jax Shines in Starting Role Amid Rotation Injuries
Griffin Jax has been outstanding over his last 14 days, tossing 10 scoreless innings with a 1.00 WHIP and nine strikeouts. He currently slots in as a back-end starter for the second-place Rays, who are looking to snap a three-game losing streak. Jax's role in the rotation is secure for now with Ryan Pepiot and Jesse Scholtens sidelined by injuries.
While his recent scoreless streak is spectacular, our models project a more realistic 3.36 ERA and 1.10 WHIP for Jax over the rest of the season. His elite strikeout ability from his relief days remains, but fantasy managers should expect some regression as his pitch counts and workloads increase. Still, his transition back to a starting role looks entirely legitimate.
Looking at the remaining schedule for this week, Jax is scheduled to start at home on June 19 against Washington. He draws a highly favorable matchup against Cade Cavalli, who carries a shaky 1.39 WHIP this season. Fantasy managers should comfortably deploy Jax in all formats for this single-start week. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
