Welcome to our MLB DFS Top Pitchers article for Thursday 8-3-23. When it comes to DFS strategy, it’s crucial to consider a pitcher’s ceiling, matchup, and recent form. For today’s slate, we have a clear top-ranked pitcher with immense potential. However, while he’s an appealing choice, he might not be a must-use option in cash games. Instead, we suggest saving some salary and turning to the heavily-favored second-ranked pitcher for added value. Let’s take a closer look at each of these standout hurlers.

Shohei Ohtani (LAA) vs. SEA

Shohei Ohtani takes the mound with a recent mixed performance, but the underlying stats show promising signs for improvement. Despite a 4.97 ERA over his last four starts, Ohtani’s 3.93 xFIP, 1.18 WHIP, 10.5 BB%, and 27.6 K% indicate better outings in his future. Facing the Seattle Mariners, Ohtani holds a sky-high ceiling due to their high strikeout rate against right-handed pitchers. With a 26.1 K% versus righties in 2023, a 27.8 K% in the previous 30 days, and a 26.4 K% on the road this season, Seattle presents an enticing opportunity for Ohtani. The Angels are also favored (-157) in this matchup, making Ohtani a top choice for DFS players seeking a high-upside pitcher.

Julio Urias (LAD) vs. OAK

Julio Urias has experienced some challenges in recent starts, but his underlying numbers indicate better potential. Despite a 5.09 ERA over the past four outings, Urias boasts a 6.2 BB%, 22.7 K%, and a 1.13 WHIP. The matchup against the Oakland Athletics favors Urias, given the A’s struggle against left-handed pitching. With a tied 21st wRC+ (94) and a 22.9 K% versus lefties in 2023, Oakland’s offense poses an opportunity for Urias to excel. The Dodgers are heavily favored (-275) in this game, and with Urias performing significantly better at home, he becomes an appealing option on both DraftKings and FanDuel.

Mitch Keller (PIT) at MIL

Mitch Keller has shown volatility in his performances, but his recent pitch modeling has been rock-solid. Despite a 6.28 ERA over the last five starts, Keller’s encouraging underlying numbers make him an intriguing option. He faces the Milwaukee Brewers, who rank low in wRC+ and strikeout rate against right-handed pitchers. With Milwaukee tied for 23rd in wRC+ (88) and holding a 23.6 K% versus righties in 2023, Keller has an excellent chance to perform well. However, his unpredictability makes him more suitable for GPP (tournament) lineups rather than cash games.

Jameson Taillon (CHC) vs. CIN

For DraftKings players, Jameson Taillon is a budget-friendly option with upside potential. While he had a rough start to the season, Taillon has improved recently, allowing only five runs in his last four starts over 25 1/3 innings with 18 strikeouts. Although the Cincinnati Reds are not the weakest offense, Taillon’s recent form makes him an attractive value play. On DraftKings, where he is priced at $6,200, Taillon presents an opportunity to allocate salary elsewhere and construct a strong lineup.