Outlook Josh Jung
Josh Jung begins minor-league rehab assignment and nears return from calf strain
Jung has not appeared in a major league game since July 22 due to a persistent left calf strain. The second-place Rangers (72-74) received a huge boost when the third baseman reported to Triple-A Round Rock on September 8 to begin a rehab assignment as the designated hitter. Ezequiel Duran has held down everyday third base duties in his absence, but Jung is finally nearing a return.
Before landing on the injured list, Jung was putting together a stellar season, slashing .294/.364/.441 with nine home runs and 35 RBI across 92 games. While our baseline projection expected a modest .249 batting average, his improved contact rate and plate awareness indicate that his 2026 gains are genuine rather than a fluke.
Texas continues their road swing with matchups against Seattle and Arizona, including dates with tough starters Logan Gilbert and Eduardo Rodriguez, as well as hittable veteran Merrill Kelly (5.14 ERA). Because Jung is still building stamina in the minors, he will not be activated in time to help fantasy managers over the remaining weekend games. Keep him stashed on your injured list until he is officially activated. Sit.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Heriberto Hernandez
Heriberto Hernandez offers legit power amid batting average slump and brutal weekend matchups
Hernandez continues to serve as Miami's everyday left fielder, though his bat has cooled significantly during the third-place Marlins' (72-75) current three-game slide. Over his last 14 days, he is batting just .163, although he has managed four home runs and eight walks to sustain some fantasy value. Despite hitting his 24th homer on September 6, his all-or-nothing approach has resulted in 16 strikeouts across his past 13 contests.
Hernandez has blown past our models' season projection of five home runs, delivering 24 homers and 10 stolen bases through 115 games. However, his .225 season batting average and recent contact woes show that regression is taking a toll on his floor. His heavy strikeout tendencies mean the power output will always come with prolonged slumps, making him a volatile category specialist.
Looking ahead after going 1-for-12 against the Mets, Hernandez faces a difficult remaining three-game home set against the Dodgers. He draws formidable starters in Blake Snell (1.97 ERA) and Tyler Glasnow (3.12 ERA, 0.88 WHIP), who both excel at generating whiffs. Given the stifling pitching matchups and his current slump, keep him on the bench for the weekend. Sit.
Updated 1 day ago
