MLB Top Pitchers 7/7/24

Hey DFS players! Today’s MLB slate is packed with intriguing pitching matchups. Whether you’re looking for a safe, high-upside ace or a sneaky under-the-radar play, I’ve got you covered.

Let’s dive into the top pitchers for today’s slate and why they should be on your radar.

Top Tier Pitchers

Tarik Skubal (L), Tigers – $10,500

Matchup: Tigers @ Reds

• ERA: 2.45
• xFIP: 2.96
• K%: 29%
• BB%: 4%

Skubal is my top pitcher for today. He’s been a strikeout machine, boasting a K% of 29%, which is the highest among today’s pitchers. The Reds have a lineup prone to strikeouts, and Skubal’s recent form has been electric. In his last six games, he’s consistently fanned hitters, maintaining a healthy strikeout rate of 25.7%. His ability to limit walks and keep hitters off-balance with his mix of pitches makes him a standout option. Given his form and the matchup, he’s a must-play in both cash games and GPPs.

Nathan Eovaldi (R), Rangers – $9,000

Matchup: Rangers vs. Rays

• ERA: 3.15
• xFIP: 3.53
• K%: 25%
• BB%: 8%

Eovaldi has been reliable, featuring a solid ERA and xFIP, and he’s facing a Rays lineup that has been inconsistent. Eovaldi’s strikeout potential is appealing, with a 25% K rate. He’s coming off a strong outing where he pitched seven shutout innings against the Padres, striking out six. His fastball velocity and command have been on point, and he has a decent track record against the Rays. He’s a solid option if you’re looking for a safe play with strikeout upside.

Reynaldo Lopez (R), Braves – $9,500

Matchup: Braves vs. Phillies

• ERA: 1.83
• xFIP: 3.82
• K%: 26%
• BB%: 9%

Lopez has been lights out with a stellar ERA and a respectable strikeout rate. His matchup against the Phillies, who have struggled against right-handed pitching, makes him an appealing option. Lopez has been effective at home and has shown the ability to rack up strikeouts. He’s a bit pricier, but his consistency and upside make him a worthy investment for your lineups.

Secondary Pitching Options

Sean Manaea (L), Mets – $8,200

Matchup: Mets @ Pirates

• ERA: 3.67
• xFIP: 4.39
• K%: 23%
• BB%: 10%

Manaea faces a Pirates lineup that has been middle-of-the-pack against lefties. While his walk rate is a concern, his ability to generate ground balls and limit hard contact keeps him in play. Manaea has shown flashes of brilliance this season and, at his price, offers a decent floor with some upside if he can harness his control.

Edward Cabrera (R), Marlins – $7,700

Matchup: Marlins vs. White Sox

• ERA: 7.17
• xFIP: 3.53
• K%: 32%
• BB%: 14%

Cabrera is a high-risk, high-reward play. He’s got an electric arm and a high strikeout ceiling, but his control issues are notable. Facing a weak White Sox lineup, Cabrera could shine if he keeps his walks in check. His recent rehab start was promising, and if he’s stretched out to 75 pitches, he could be a sneaky value play on DraftKings.

Zack Littell (R), Rays – $6,900

Matchup: Rays @ Rangers

• ERA: 3.94
• xFIP: 3.85
• K%: 22%
• BB%: 4%

Littell offers a safe, low-cost option. He’s not a strikeout artist, but his ability to limit walks and manage games effectively makes him a solid SP2 on DraftKings. Against a Rangers lineup that can be hit-or-miss, Littell could provide steady production without breaking the bank.

Hayden Wesneski (R), Cubs – $6,500

Matchup: Cubs vs. Angels

• ERA: 4.14
• xFIP: 3.93
• K%: 24%
• BB%: 9%

Wesneski is another value play to consider. He’s got decent strikeout stuff and faces an Angels lineup that has struggled against righties. His recent performances have been up and down, but at his price, he’s worth a shot in GPPs. The Cubs will need him to eat innings, and if he can avoid the long ball, he could exceed value.

Under-the-Radar Plays

DJ Herz (L), Nationals – $7,800

Matchup: Nationals vs. Cardinals

• ERA: 4.50
• xFIP: 4.95
• K%: 30%
• BB%: 6%

Herz has been impressive against lefties with a high strikeout rate. His matchup against the Cardinals, who have been inconsistent against left-handed pitching, gives him sneaky upside. Herz’s ability to miss bats makes him a potential GPP gem.

Michael Mercado (R), Phillies – $7,500

Matchup: Phillies @ Braves

• ERA: 3.12
• xFIP: 4.22
• K%: 22%
• BB%: 9%

Mercado is a lesser-known name but has been quietly effective. His ground ball rate is excellent, and he’s shown the ability to limit damage. Against a Braves lineup that can be potent but also streaky, Mercado could be a contrarian play with upside.

That’s it for today’s top MLB DFS pitchers! Whether you’re looking for high-priced aces or value plays to round out your lineups, there are plenty of options to consider. Good luck, and may your lineups cash!