MLB Top Pitchers 6/18/24 Early Slate

Today’s MLB early slate features some intriguing pitching matchups that could provide significant DFS value. Here are the top pitchers to consider for your DFS lineups, along with a few under-the-radar plays that might offer high returns.

Top MLB DFS Pitchers

1. Nick Lodolo (Cincinnati Reds) vs. Pittsburgh Pirates

Key Stats:

• Nick Lodolo (L):
  • vs. LHB: 26.7% K rate, .087 ISO, .287 xwOBA
  • vs. RHB: 26.7% K rate, .189 ISO, .309 xwOBA

Insights:

• Lodolo’s ability to strike out batters at a high rate makes him a top DFS option. His 26.7% strikeout rate against both left-handed and right-handed hitters is impressive. The Pirates’ lineup has several hitters with high strikeout rates, which enhances Lodolo’s appeal. Additionally, his control (5.3% BB rate vs. LHB, 6.3% vs. RHB) minimizes the risk of giving up free passes.

2. Aaron Nola (Philadelphia Phillies) vs. San Diego Padres

Key Stats:

• Aaron Nola (R):
  • vs. LHB: 22.3% K rate, .201 ISO, .303 xwOBA
  • vs. RHB: 26.4% K rate, .156 ISO, .300 xwOBA

Insights:

• Nola’s strikeout potential and ability to limit damage make him a strong play. With a 26.4% strikeout rate against right-handed hitters, Nola can dominate a right-handed heavy Padres lineup. His control (6.8% BB rate vs. LHB, 5.4% vs. RHB) and groundball rate (47.4% vs. RHB) further solidify his position as a top DFS pitcher today.

3. Bryce Miller (Seattle Mariners) vs. Cleveland Guardians

Key Stats:

• Bryce Miller (R):
  • vs. LHB: 19.9% K rate, .235 ISO, .382 xwOBA
  • vs. RHB: 26.4% K rate, .107 ISO, .279 xwOBA

Insights:

• Miller’s high strikeout rate against right-handed hitters (26.4%) makes him a strong DFS play. The Guardians have struggled against right-handed pitching, which enhances Miller’s upside. Despite his higher xwOBA against left-handed hitters, Miller’s overall ability to limit power (.107 ISO vs. RHB) makes him a valuable option.

Under-the-Radar Plays

1. Roddery Munoz (Miami Marlins) vs. St. Louis Cardinals

Key Stats:

• Roddery Munoz (R):
  • vs. LHB: 27.7% K rate, .500 ISO, .427 xwOBA
  • vs. RHB: 24.6% K rate, .118 ISO, .351 xwOBA

Insights:

• Munoz’s strikeout potential (27.7% K rate vs. LHB, 24.6% vs. RHB) makes him an intriguing under-the-radar option. While he has struggled with control and power against left-handed hitters, his ability to limit right-handed hitters to a .118 ISO and .351 xwOBA is noteworthy. The Cardinals’ lineup has several right-handed bats, giving Munoz a chance to excel.

2. Jake Irvin (Washington Nationals) vs. Arizona Diamondbacks

Key Stats:

• Jake Irvin (R):
  • vs. LHB: 18.1% K rate, .193 ISO, .352 xwOBA
  • vs. RHB: 21.5% K rate, .130 ISO, .307 xwOBA

Insights:

• Irvin’s ability to induce groundballs (47.8% vs. RHB) and limit power (.130 ISO vs. RHB) makes him a solid under-the-radar play. The Diamondbacks have several hitters prone to strikeouts, providing Irvin with an opportunity to rack up points. His control issues (9.3% BB rate vs. LHB) are a concern, but his upside makes him worth considering.

These pitchers are positioned to deliver strong performances based on their matchups and statistical profiles. Whether you opt for the top-tier options or the under-the-radar picks, these pitchers should provide a solid foundation for your DFS lineups today. Good luck!