Outlook Ryan O'Hearn
Ryan O'Hearn's power surge provides a boost for the Pirates despite a recent batting average slide.
The fourth-place Pirates, holding a 39-39 record, continue to slot Ryan O'Hearn in as their primary starting right fielder. While he recently showcased his high ceiling with a career-high six-RBI performance on June 18, he has hit just .235 over his last 14 days following a brief IL stint for quad discomfort. He remains a critical run producer in Pittsburgh's lineup, especially with outfielder Oneil Cruz sidelined on the injured list.
O'Hearn's recent slump (.243 average over the last 30 days) looks like a temporary post-injury speed bump rather than a permanent regression. Our season projection models expect him to finish with a solid .266 batting average and 13 home runs, aligning closely with his strong career baselines with Baltimore. Given his steady hard-hit rates and secure everyday role, his batting average should quickly climb back toward his career norms.
This week, Pittsburgh hosts six games, starting with a challenging series against Seattle before facing division rival Cincinnati. O'Hearn will face tough tests against elite arms like Bryce Miller (1.58 ERA) and Chase Burns (2.01 ERA), but he gets a soft landing spot against Brady Singer (5.32 ERA). With our weekly model projecting nearly four RBIs and a home run, fantasy managers should lock him in. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Richie Palacios
Palacios Slumping but Holds Everyday Role for First-Place Rays
Palacios is enduring a cold spell, batting just .171 over his last 14 days without a home run. Despite the slump, he remains the everyday starter at second base for the first-place Rays, who lead the AL East with a stellar 40-25 record. With injuries to teammates like Jonny DeLuca, his playing time remains highly secure in the middle infield.
While his recent form is disappointing, his .348 on-base percentage on the year proves his plate discipline remains excellent. Our models project him to hit near his .237 season average with 7 stolen bases, suggesting his current hitting slump is a fluke. He should revert to his established career baseline as his luck turns.
Looking at the remaining schedule, Tampa Bay plays three games at Anaheim. Palacios faces tough matchups against Sam Aldegheri and Jose Soriano before a highly favorable date with Grayson Rodriguez and his 8.49 ERA on Sunday. Until he breaks out of this cold streak, he is best left on fantasy benches. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 12 days ago
