MLB DFS Top Pitchers Early Slate 4/10/24

1. Bobby Miller (Los Angeles Dodgers) – $10.1K

• Matchup: Dodgers at Minnesota Twins
• Why Miller is a Top Play:
  • Strong Underlying Metrics: Miller boasts a solid expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA) of .276 and an expected earned run average (xERA) of 2.98, suggesting effective suppression of hitters.
  • Strikeout Potential: With a 25% strikeout rate, Miller has the ability to rack up DFS points through strikeouts.
  • Opponent Matchup: The Twins have shown vulnerability against right-handed pitching, providing Miller with a favorable matchup.
  • Key Insight: Considering Chris Paddack’s struggles on the opposing mound, Miller stands a good chance of earning a win, adding valuable DFS points.

2. Jordan Hicks (San Francisco Giants) – $8.2K

• Matchup: Giants vs. Washington Nationals
• Why Hicks is a Top Play:
  • Dominant Metrics: Hicks shines with a 1.98 xERA and a 28% strikeout rate, indicating his dominance on the mound.
  • Ground Ball Tendency: An impressive 58% ground ball rate coupled with a low hard contact (HC%) of 24% suggests Hicks can limit damage and control the game.
  • Favorable Matchup: Facing a Nationals lineup that has struggled to produce consistently, Hicks is in a prime position for a strong performance.
  • Key Insight: Given his ability to induce ground balls and strikeouts, Hicks is well-suited to navigate through the Nationals’ lineup effectively.

3. Logan Gilbert (Seattle Mariners) – $10K

• Matchup: Mariners at Toronto Blue Jays
• Why Gilbert is a Top Play:
  • Solid Performance Indicators: Gilbert’s xERA of 3.40 and SIERA of 3.71 highlight his effectiveness and skill in suppressing opposing offenses.
  • Strikeout Ability: With a 25% strikeout rate, Gilbert offers the upside of high DFS points through strikeouts.
  • Competitive Edge: In a close matchup against Yusei Kikuchi, Gilbert’s superior metrics and strikeout capability give him an edge.
  • Key Insight: Given the Blue Jays’ reliance on power and Gilbert’s ability to strike batters out, he’s positioned well to navigate this lineup and potentially excel.

4. Yusei Kikuchi (Toronto Blue Jays) – $7.6K

• Matchup: Blue Jays vs. Seattle Mariners
• Why Kikuchi is a Top Play:
  • Underpriced Value: With a 3.30 xERA and a 26% strikeout rate, Kikuchi presents significant value at his price point.
  • Left-Handed Advantage: His left-handedness could pose challenges for a Mariners lineup that has shown some inconsistency against lefties.
  • Key Insight: Although facing a competitive Mariners team, Kikuchi’s strikeout prowess and the ability to limit hard contact (36% HC%) make him a savvy play for those looking to allocate budget elsewhere.

Closing Thoughts:

Pitching is all about matchups, form, and underlying metrics, and today’s slate presents some fascinating options. From the dominance of Bobby Miller and Jordan Hicks to the intriguing value of Yusei Kikuchi, there are several routes to take when building your DFS lineup on this slate.

Remember, strikeouts are gold in DFS, and each of these pitchers brings the potential for high strikeout totals. Pairing a top arm with a favorable matchup is a tried and true strategy, so consider these insights as you craft your winning lineup. Good luck, and may your DFS scores be as untouchable as a perfect game!