MLB DFS Top Hitters Early Slate 4/10/24

1. Mookie Betts (Los Angeles Dodgers – 2B/SS) – $6.4K

• Matchup: Dodgers at Minnesota Twins, facing Chris Paddack (RHP)
• Why Betts is a Top Play:
  • Matchup Advantage: Paddack’s struggles are highlighted by a high 0.404 xWOBA and a concerning 7.05 xERA, making him vulnerable against right-handed hitters.
  • Leading Off: Betts, leading off for the Dodgers, maximizes his opportunities for at-bats, runs, and RBIs.
  • Versatility and Power: His dual eligibility at 2B/SS offers lineup flexibility, and his power-speed combo adds to his DFS upside.
  • Key Insight: The Dodgers’ potent offense against right-handed pitching, combined with Betts’ consistent performance, positions him well in this favorable matchup.

2. Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Dodgers – 1B/OF) – $6.1K

• Matchup: Dodgers at Minnesota Twins, facing Chris Paddack (RHP)
• Why Ohtani is a Top Play:
  • Power Surge: Ohtani’s unique power from the left side makes him particularly dangerous against Paddack, whose metrics suggest susceptibility to power hitters.
  • Position Flexibility: Ability to slot in at 1B or OF allows for strategic DFS lineup construction.
  • RBI Machine: Positioned in the heart of the Dodgers’ lineup, Ohtani is in a prime spot to drive in runs and cross the plate himself.
  • Key Insight: Expect Ohtani to capitalize on Paddack’s high xERA and exploit the Twins’ bullpen if the game swings in the Dodgers’ favor early.

3. Corbin Carroll (Arizona Diamondbacks – OF) – $5.8K

• Matchup: Diamondbacks at Colorado Rockies, facing Austin Gomber (LHP)
• Why Carroll is a Top Play:
  • Coors Field Factor: Playing in the hitter-friendly confines of Coors Field inherently boosts Carroll’s value.
  • Lefty on Lefty: Despite the left-on-left matchup, Carroll’s speed and contact skills make him a threat for multi-base hits and stolen bases.
  • High-Scoring Environment: With an O/U of 11.5, the expectation for a high-scoring game increases Carroll’s potential for fantasy points.
  • Key Insight: Carroll’s position at the top of the order and his multi-faceted game (power, contact, speed) make him a valuable asset in a game projected to have plenty of scoring opportunities.

4. Byron Buxton (Minnesota Twins – OF) – $4.7K

• Matchup: Twins vs. Los Angeles Dodgers, facing Bobby Miller (RHP)
• Why Buxton is a Top Play:
  • Home Run Potential: Buxton’s elite power plays well against Miller, who, despite solid metrics, is still relatively unproven at the major league level.
  • Discounted Price: At $4.7K, Buxton offers high upside at a relatively lower cost compared to other elite power hitters.
  • Key Insight: Buxton’s ability to change the game with one swing, combined with his role in the heart of the Twins’ lineup, provides a solid foundation for DFS success today.

5. Paul Goldschmidt (St. Louis Cardinals – 1B) – $5K

• Matchup: Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Phillies, facing Aaron Nola (RHP)
• Why Goldschmidt is a Top Play:
  • Veteran Presence: Goldschmidt’s experience and consistent production make him a steady play, especially against Nola, who’s shown vulnerability with a 5.30 xERA.
  • Power and Discipline: His power to all fields, combined with a keen eye at the plate, could exploit Nola’s tendency to give up hard-hit balls.
  • Key Insight: Positioned in the middle of the Cardinals’ lineup, Goldschmidt has ample RBI opportunities, especially if the Phillies’ starter struggles early.

Closing Thoughts:

Today’s slate presents a fascinating mix of matchups, with a clear advantage for hitters facing pitchers with inflated xERAs and susceptibility to power. Each recommended player brings a unique blend of skills, from power and speed to consistency and strategic lineup placement. When constructing your DFS lineups, consider these top plays not just for their individual potential, but for how they fit into the larger context of today’s games, ballpark factors, and opposing pitching matchups. Good luck!