Outlook Royce Lewis
Royce Lewis is sizzling since his major-league return, making him an immediate must-start.
Since returning to the big leagues, Lewis has been absolutely on fire, batting .324 with three home runs and seven RBIs over his last 10 games. His hot bat is providing a massive spark for the third-place Twins (35-40), who enter today on a three-game winning streak. While the team depth chart lists him in a utility role across multiple infield positions, his current production guarantees him everyday at-bats.
This recent tear is a massive relief after he hit just .206 prior to his demotion. Our models project him to finish with a .246 average, 12 home runs, and 10 steals over 459 at-bats, though his elite career track record—such as his .301 average and 19 homers in 2023—suggests there is room for much higher rest-of-season production if he remains healthy.
Looking ahead at the remaining weekly matchups, Minnesota finishes a series in Texas before heading to Arizona. Lewis will face highly favorable pitching, including Jack Leiter (5.13 ERA), Zac Gallen (5.71 ERA), and Ryne Nelson (5.11 ERA). Only Michael Soroka (3.11 ERA) presents a tough challenge, making Lewis an incredibly strong option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
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Outlook Colt Emerson
Rookie sensation Colt Emerson shows incredible power upside, but contact issues flash warning signs
The first-place Mariners (38-37) are leaning heavily on 20-year-old rookie phenom Colt Emerson, who has taken over as the primary shortstop. Over his last 14 days, Emerson has flashed immense power potential by launching three home runs in nine games, though his batting average has dipped to .188 during this stretch. With key injuries to surrounding bats like Randy Arozarena and Julio Rodriguez, Emerson is locked into everyday playing time in Seattle's lineup.
While his recent .188 average over the last two weeks is a bit concerning, his overall career start of .229 with six home runs in 25 games is a spectacular show of power for such a young player. Our season models project Emerson for a .231 batting average and eight home runs over 238 at-bats, showing he is already incredibly close to his projected power ceiling. Expect some regression in his high home-run-to-flyball rate, but his daily playing time makes him a highly valuable asset in deeper formats.
Looking at the remaining games this week, Seattle faces a mix of challenging and vulnerable arms at home. Emerson will face Baltimore's Shane Baz on Thursday, followed by a weekend series against Boston's Ranger Suarez and Payton Tolle, who both sport sub-3.30 ERAs. Because of the difficult matchups against top-tier Boston starters and Emerson's recent contact slump, he is best used as a bench option in shallow formats but remains a viable play in deep leagues. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 3 days ago
