Outlook Lawrence Butler
Lawrence Butler is on a blistering hot streak, providing elite batting average and speed for the Athletics.
Butler has been on fire over the last 14 days, hitting .382 with a 1.020 OPS and scoring 10 runs. The Athletics, currently 39-42 and sitting third in the AL West, have relied on him as their everyday right fielder with Brent Rooker sidelined on the injured list. His recent heroics include a go-ahead hit in the ninth inning on June 25 to help snap a recent cold stretch for the club.
While his .202 season average remains low, this recent surge aligns more closely with our projection of a .241 finish and his career baseline. This heater appears to be a necessary correction after a frigid start to the year, and since he is finding his power stroke again, he is beginning to resemble the 22-homer, 18-steal threat he was during his 2024 breakout campaign.
Looking at the remainder of the week, Butler faces a three-game set in Anaheim against the Angels. He will navigate a challenging matchup on Friday against Walbert Urena and his 2.41 ERA, but the weekend offers relief against Reid Detmers and Sam Aldegheri, who enters with a 5.47 ERA and 1.50 WHIP. Given his 1.012 OPS over the last seven days, he should be in lineups. Start.
Updated 2 days ago
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Outlook Troy Johnston
Johnston solidified as everyday contributor for Rockies after productive June stretch
Johnston has emerged as a reliable contributor for the last-place Rockies, hitting .304 with seven RBI over his last nine games. With several key teammates currently on the injured list, he has carved out a regular role as the primary designated hitter and a versatile corner defender. His elite approach at the plate has helped him maintain a stellar .314 batting average through late June even as the team sits at a 32-49 record.
While his modest home run total suggests he won't be a primary power source, his underlying metrics are encouraging. Comparing his recent stretch to our season projections, Johnston is demonstrating better-than-expected plate discipline, striking out just eight times over his last 22 games. While his current average might see a slight regression toward his .257 projected baseline eventually, his high-contact profile makes him a ratio asset in most formats.
The Rockies conclude their week with a three-game series in Minnesota. Johnston will face a challenging arm in Taj Bradley but gets a very favorable matchup on Sunday against Connor Prielipp, who carries a 5.17 ERA and 1.42 WHIP. Given his current .500 on-base percentage over the last seven days and secure spot in the heart of the order, Johnston is worth keeping in active lineups. Start.
Updated 2 days ago
