Outlook Samuel Basallo
Basallo assumes primary catching duties with elite power potential while Rutschman is sidelined.
Basallo has stepped into the primary catching role for the fourth-place Orioles with Adley Rutschman currently on the 7-day injured list due to a concussion. The 21-year-old is finding his rhythm, evidenced by a massive multi-homer performance on June 24 that helped lift his slugging percentage to .524 over the last week. Our data confirms he is currently the top option behind the plate as Baltimore looks to snap a two-game losing streak and stay within 1.5 games of a wild card spot.
The power production is no fluke, as Basallo has already amassed 12 home runs through 68 games this season, showcasing the elite slugging ability that recently put him in company with Johnny Bench for historical production at his age. While his .237 average over the last month aligns with our projection, his current .785 OPS suggests he is trending upward compared to his earlier career baseline. Expect the power to remain sustainable even if his batting average fluctuates due to a high strikeout rate.
Baltimore finishes the week with three home games against the Nationals. While Andrew Alvarez and Foster Griffin represent respectable matchups with ERAs near 3.30, the week ends with a highly favorable draw against Zack Littell and his 5.40 ERA. Given Basallo’s recent power binge and his secured volume in the heart of the order, fantasy managers should treat him as a high-upside catching option for the remainder of the scoring period. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Willi Castro
Castro Slugging His Way into Everyday Utility Role
Willi Castro is locked in at the plate, batting .341 with three homers and 11 RBIs over his last 12 games. Though the fifth-place Rockies currently sit at 32-49, Castro is providing consistent value as the everyday second baseman while frequently filling in across the infield. His volume remains secure as he continues to lead a lineup currently navigating multiple injuries to key starters.
Our data shows Castro is vastly exceeding his preseason outlook, having already nearly matched his full-season RBI projection by late June. While his .282 average is a career-high mark, his .402 on-base percentage over the last 30 days suggests his improved approach and plate discipline are legitimate. Expect some regression toward his .248 baseline eventually, but his elite contact makes him an asset for now.
The Rockies finish the week with three road games against a Minnesota staff featuring ERAs all above 4.00, including a favorable Sunday draw against Connor Prielipp. With our models projecting a .377 average and additional speed upside for these remaining matchups, he is a high-end middle-infield option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 1 day ago
