Outlook Paul Goldschmidt
Paul Goldschmidt's Power Resurgence Makes Him a Must-Start
Goldschmidt is red-hot, slugging five home runs over his last 14 days with a superb .327 batting average and 13 RBIs. The first-place Yankees (46-30) are leaning heavily on the veteran, especially with key power hitters like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton on the injured list. Currently locking down his role as the everyday starting first baseman, his recent tear is keeping the offense afloat.
While his 2025 campaign saw a power drop-off with only 10 home runs, he has already eclipsed that total in 2026, hitting 12 homers with a .289 average through 51 games. Some regression from his hot .327 run over the past two weeks is to be expected, but his bounceback is fully supported by his excellent career baseline and strong quality of contact.
The Yankees play seven road games this week against the Tigers and Red Sox. While matchups against Tarik Skubal and Sonny Gray present a tough test, he will also get to exploit more generous pitchers like Jake Bennett (4.79 ERA). Given his locked-in lineup slot and red-hot bat, he remains a locked-in option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
Latest News Paul Goldschmidt
Outlook Donovan Walton
Sizzling Walton Seizes Everyday Hot Corner Role in Los Angeles
Walton is incredibly hot at the plate, batting .500 with two home runs and seven RBIs over his last seven days. He has locked down the starting third-base gig for the fifth-place Angels (32-47) with Yoan Moncada sidelined on the injured list. With Mike Trout also out, Walton's hot bat has quickly elevated him into a crucial middle-of-the-order role.
While his .338 batting average over 23 games is a massive boon, his career track record and our conservative baseline projection of .194 suggest heavy regression is coming. However, his strong 11.1% strikeout rate this season suggests improved contact skills that could help him sustain a higher floor than his previous MLB stints. Fantasy managers should ride the hot hand while his playing time remains completely secure.
The Angels have six home games scheduled this week, beginning with a three-game series against Baltimore before hosting Oakland. Walton draws highly favorable matchups against vulnerable starters like Trey Gibson (5.81 ERA) and Jack Perkins (6.60 ERA). Given his current form and elite matchup environment, he is an excellent plug-and-play option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
