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 2 days ago
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Outlook Foster Griffin
Foster Griffin continues his strong run in the Nationals rotation, but with no remaining starts this week, fantasy managers should look ahead.
Foster Griffin has been exceptional recently, posting a stellar 1.59 ERA and 0.94 WHIP with 15 strikeouts over his last three starts. He is locked in as a key member of the starting rotation for the 39-36 Nationals, especially with rotation depth tested by injuries to Josiah Gray and Jake Irvin.
While our season projection is more conservative with a 4.17 ERA and 1.28 WHIP, Griffin’s actual 3.35 ERA and 1.12 WHIP over 15 starts look highly sustainable. His revamped splitter has fueled an impressive 80 strikeouts in 83.3 innings, proving his transition back from Japan is a major success.
Griffin already delivered a quality start earlier this week on June 16, holding Kansas City to one run over six frames on exactly 100 pitches. With Washington heading to Tampa Bay for the weekend and no remaining starts scheduled for Griffin, he can be safely benched in weekly matchups. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 2 days ago
