Seriously? Another week of MLB action filled with fans making one-handed catches while cradling a baby in the other hand is nearly over, meaning it’s time once again for a DraftTeam MLB $3,000 High Heater contest. Let’s get you ready to win some cash!
Just under a year ago, we recommended Indian LF DavidMurphy ($7,627) and he came though, going 3-for-4 with a double and two RBI. He doesn’t get full-time at-bats anymore, his walk rate continues to decline and he no longer steals bases, but with an OPS of 855, he’s enjoying his finest season since 2012. On the weekend, he even delivered the Indians’ only walk-off magic this season (see video below)! Make sure Murphy is playing tonight, but if so, make him part of your lineup as a sneaky cheap option.
Another under the radar outfield option for Friday is Washington CF Michael A. Taylor ($9,100). He’s going to get plenty of PT while Jayson Werth is out, and recently has shown he’s more deserving of those at-bats. After lashing an RBI double on Thursday — his second straight game with a two-bagger — Taylor has hit safely in six straight games, with three multi-hit efforts sprinkled in. He’s now hitting .276 with four walks in June and make no mistake — this rookie has some major upside.
When the rebuilding Braves gave free agent RF Nick Markakis ($8,583) a massive contract in the winter, we were left scratching our head in puzzlement. But the fact is, he’s enjoying his best season since 2012 (even if his extra-base power has completely fallen off the table). On Thursday, Markakis committed his first error in 398 games — a new record for a non-pitcher. But the big reason we like him Friday is because he’s 6-for-17 against Pirate starter Francisco Liriano.
DFS Notes
- How good has Texas Rangers SP Nick Martinez been on the road this season? Try 3-1 with a 1.69 ERA. Opponents are hitting just .214 against him on the road compared to .297 at home.
- Detroit SP Anibal Sanchez is starting to look more like himself — especially at home. He’s won three straight starts at Tiger Stadium, tossing 20 2/3 scoreless frames along the way.
- We still like the idea of picking pitchers who are facing the currently punchless Mets. Over the last 10 games, they are batting .186 and averaging just 1.8 runs per game.
- Los Angeles Dodgers SS Jimmy Rollins is on a nice roll, going 7-for-19 in the last five games. Heading into MiamiFriday, expect that to continue. He’s a .327 hitter over the last 12 games at Marlins Park.