Outlook Zack Littell
Littell Struggles with Ratios and Home Runs as Nationals Rotation Falters
The fourth-place Nationals are currently riding a three-game losing streak, and Littell's recent form has mirrored the team's slide. Over the last 14 days, he has been hit hard to the tune of a 9.71 ERA and a 1.86 WHIP across three outings. While injuries to teammates Josiah Gray and Trevor Williams have kept his role as a back-end starter secure, he has struggled to provide the length or stability Washington needs.
His 5.50 season ERA is a significant regression from the 3.94 mark he maintained last season. Although he enjoyed a dominant stretch in May, his recent home run problems suggest he is returning to the volatile form seen during his early-season struggles. Our data suggests he should eventually settle closer to his 4.55 projected ERA, but his current 1.40 WHIP makes him a major liability in most fantasy formats until he finds his command.
Looking ahead, Littell has one remaining start this week on June 28 against the Orioles. This is a difficult road matchup against Kyle Bradish, who carries a 3.84 ERA and has been far more consistent in limiting damage. Given that Baltimore’s lineup can exploit Littell’s current propensity for the long ball, and following a short four-inning stint earlier this week, fantasy managers should avoid this matchup. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 1 day ago
Latest News Zack Littell
Outlook Connor Prielipp
Prielipp battles consistency issues as the Twins manage the rookie's high-upside arm
Prielipp has experienced significant growing pains lately, posting a 5.25 ERA and a 1.75 WHIP over his last 12 innings of work. The third-place Twins, currently enduring a three-game losing streak, are keeping a close eye on the rookie's workload to preserve his long-term health following his early-season debut. He currently slots in as a mid-rotation staple for Minnesota, though his command has wavered with five walks issued across his last two starts.
Under the hood, his 6.53 ERA over the last 30 days is a far cry from his 4.26 season projection, suggesting some positive regression is likely. The left-hander continues to flash impressive strikeout stuff, maintaining a career rate of nearly 9.0 strikeouts per nine innings. However, until he improves on his 1.43 career WHIP and limits the high volume of hits allowed, he will remain a volatile fantasy asset driven primarily by his strikeout upside.
The week ahead features a single remaining start this Sunday at home against the Rockies. Prielipp draws a favorable matchup against Ryan Feltner, who has struggled to find consistency this season. While the rookie's recent ratios are a concern, the Rockies' lineup provides a soft landing spot for him to get back on track and provide a boost in the strikeout category. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
