Outlook Chandler Simpson
Simpson Reclaims Elite Speed Value Following Mid-Season Slump
After a brutal stretch over the last month where his average plummeted to .169, Simpson has found his rhythm again, hitting .320 with five stolen bases over his last seven games. The second-place Rays, who currently sit at 45-33 and hold the top Wild Card spot in the American League, continue to rely on his elite range as their primary left fielder.
Our data suggests his recent surge is a return to form, as our season projection remains a solid .282 average with 45 stolen bases. While his lack of power remains a significant limitation for his overall fantasy ceiling, his ability to single-handedly swing the speed category makes him indispensable when he is making consistent contact and reaching base at his expected .311 clip.
The remainder of the week offers favorable matchups against an Arizona pitching staff that has struggled with high ratios. Facing Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly—both of whom are currently carrying ERAs over 5.70 and WHIPs above 1.50—presents a prime opportunity for Simpson to utilize his high-contact approach and wreak havoc on the basepaths. Start.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Esteury Ruiz
Ruiz remains a specialized stolen base threat in a limited Marlins role
Ruiz has cooled off slightly over the last week, batting just .167 across six appearances, though his game-changing speed remains present with two steals in that span. The third-place Marlins (42-39) are currently riding a two-game win streak as they stay competitive in the National League postseason race. Despite a strong .333 mark over the last month, Ruiz is primarily serving as a backup outfielder and late-inning pinch runner according to current team depth charts.
Our data suggests Ruiz is currently exceeding his projected power ceiling, as he has already doubled the home run total found in our models for the season. While his recent .421 average over a 14-day stretch was impressive, his career history suggests he is more likely to settle back toward the .244 mark seen in our projections. He remains a volatile fantasy asset whose value is almost entirely dependent on his ability to reach base and utilize his elite speed for stolen bases.
Miami finishes the week with three games on the road against the Cardinals starting tonight. Ruiz may find it difficult to crack the starting lineup against right-handers Michael McGreevy, who enters with a solid 3.35 ERA, and Andre Pallante (3.70 ERA), though Dustin May (4.30 ERA) presents a more favorable matchup on Saturday. Because he is not seeing everyday at-bats and is primarily used for situational running, he is difficult to start in most formats. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 1 day ago
