Outlook Curtis Mead
Curtis Mead’s elite power surge continues to anchor the Nationals' lineup despite a dip in batting average.
Mead has been a consistent power source for the fourth-place Nationals, launching three home runs over his last seven games. While the 41-41 club is looking to snap a three-game losing streak, Mead has solidified his role as the starting third baseman and a primary run producer in the middle of the order. He continues to see everyday playing time, especially against right-handed pitching, where he has been most effective this season.
Although his batting average has dipped to .146 over the last fortnight, the underlying power output remains elite with four homers in his last 12 starts. This boom-or-bust profile is a significant pivot from his earlier career marks, as he has already surpassed our season projection of 10 home runs by reaching 14 before July. While the .223 season average is a slight categorical drag, his .476 slugging percentage suggests the power is legitimate.
The Nationals finish the week with a three-game series against the Orioles. Mead draws a favorable matchup today against Trevor Rogers, who carries a 5.48 ERA and 1.40 WHIP, followed by tougher tests against Brandon Young and Kyle Bradish. Given the volume of home runs he is providing and his secure spot in the batting order, he should remain in lineups for those chasing home runs and RBIs. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Dominic Canzone
Dominic Canzone reaches career-high power milestone while anchoring Mariners lineup
Canzone continues to serve as the primary designated hitter for the first-place Mariners, who currently hold a 41-41 record despite a recent two-game losing streak. While he has hit a cold spell over the last seven days with just a .083 batting average, he recently swatted his 12th home run of the season to set a new career high. He remains a fixture in the heart of the order, benefiting from a relatively healthy Seattle roster that has avoided major blows to its primary hitting core.
Under the hood, Canzone's recent month-long surge of a .338 average and 1.121 OPS has been a massive boost to fantasy managers, though the recent cooling off suggests a return to his season baseline. Our data indicates his current home run pace has already doubled his preseason expectations, and while his .275 season average is an asset, his high strikeout rate and career history suggest he may settle closer to a neutral .250 hitter as the summer progresses.
The week concludes with a three-game series against the Guardians. Canzone draws favorable matchups against Joey Cantillo, who carries a 4.28 ERA, and Slade Cecconi, who has struggled with a 1.44 WHIP. While the finale against Gavin Williams is a tougher test, the everyday volume and the chance to exploit high-ERA starters in Cleveland make him a viable option for those needing power. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
