Outlook Teoscar Hernandez
Hernandez returns to bolster the Dodgers' lineup following a hamstring injury
Hernandez recently returned from a month-long absence due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain and has reclaimed his spot as the starting left fielder. He joined a first-place Dodgers squad (56-31) currently navigating a significant injury list that includes Mookie Betts and Will Smith. In his first two games back, he collected two hits and an RBI, showing little signs of rust after the extended layoff.
Prior to his injury, Hernandez was slashing .275 with seven home runs and 32 RBIs through 53 games. While our models currently project 15 total homers for the season, his career history of consistent 25-30 home run campaigns suggests he will far exceed that mark if he remains healthy. His underlying power and role as a primary run producer in a potent offense make him a reliable asset for the stretch run.
The Dodgers wrap up their week at home with a four-game set against the Padres. Hernandez faces a favorable slate of pitchers, starting with Randy Vasquez (4.56 ERA) and continuing with high-ERA options like Griffin Canning (7.09) and JP Sears (6.97). While Michael King (3.54 ERA) presents a stiffer challenge, the quality of matchups and his immediate return to the heart of the order make him a mandatory fantasy option. Start.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Drake Baldwin
Drake Baldwin is mired in a slump but maintains elite catching upside
Baldwin is mired in a significant slump, batting just .049 over his last 14 days with 17 strikeouts. Despite the cold bat, he remains the everyday starter for the first-place Braves (50-34) and was recently named an All-Star finalist. His role is secure with backup Sean Murphy still on the injured list, though he is clearly still finding his rhythm following a mid-season oblique strain.
The recent .085 average over the last 30 days is a far cry from his .260 season mark and .807 OPS. Our models suggest this is a temporary regression, as Baldwin remains on pace for nearly 25 home runs and 90 RBIs. Given his high-end power and pedigree, fantasy managers should trust his season-long track record and expect a return to the asset he was in early May.
The Braves finish their series tonight against Dustin May (4.30 ERA) before a weekend set with the Mets. Baldwin draws a favorable matchup against Sean Manaea and his 4.90 ERA on Saturday, though he must also contend with the efficient Nolan McLean. While the contact issues are currently frustrating, his elite power upside at a thin position makes him a mandatory play. Start.
Updated 1 day ago
