Many MLB teams are deploying mid-level starters this weekend, which makes streaming options on the batting side less plentiful than usual. But there are still some potential gems to consider, led by Brandon Marsh, Wilyer Abreu and Tyler Freeman. On the pitching side, there are several excellent options over the next three days, which should make for some exciting weekly finals in head-to-head leagues.
Combinations to target
Phillies @ Rockies
Every member of the Phillies’ roster is expected to be active this weekend for a series at Coors Field against a trio of everyday starters who are part of a team with a league-worst 5.23 ERA. Brandon Marsh (35% roster) is the best player to add, but Johan Rojas (6%) and Whit Merrifield (8%) deserve a spot in 12-team leagues for a few days. In deep formats, Edmundo Sosa (5%) is an option.
Red Sox x Brewers
Boston will enjoy playing at home against three mediocre right-handers from Milwaukee. Wilyer Abreu (36%) has been hitting second in the lineup against righties, which means he could be the best option in this article. Connor Wong (35%) has been hitting the heart of the lineup and is therefore a good catching streamer.
Astros @ A’s
Southpaw JP Sears (Saturday) is having a decent season, but is sandwiched this weekend by unimpressive right-handers who could be hit hard by an effective Astros lineup. A pair of outfielders deserve a lot of attention. Jake Meyers (12%) has been hitting the ground running lately, and Chas McCormick (36%) is ready to turn around a disappointing season now that he’s back from the IL.
Guardians @ Angels
Cleveland is in prime position to score early and often when facing two Los Angeles left-handers with an ERA above 4.50 and a right-hander (José Soriano) who allows his share of base runners. Leadoff hitter Tyler Freeman (30%) is the best player on this lineup and offers the bonus of being eligible at four positions.
Fights to avoid
Brewers @ Red Sox
Milwaukee’s effective lineup could have a slow weekend against two Red Sox starters with a sub-2.20 ERA and one with a 3.04 mark. The Brewers hit well enough that William Contreras, Christian Yelich and Willy Adames could remain in every lineup. Brice Turang can remain active in roto leagues and those in deep formats can stick with Joey Ortiz.
Cardinals vs. Puppies
One of baseball’s best rivalries could involve a low-scoring weekend for the home team when St. Louis brings an offense that ranks 27th in runs scored into a matchup against three starters with an ERA under 2.25 . There are no players on this roster who should remain active during such a difficult series of weekend games.
Nationals x Sailors
Many teams have had issues with the quintet of effective right-handers in the Mariners’ rotation. Washington’s mediocre offensive group is unlikely to score many goals against this team, which means CJ Abrams is the only Nats player who belongs on the weekend rosters.
Pirates vs. Bravos
Pittsburgh’s offense isn’t strong enough to overcome Atlanta’s three effective starters and a bullpen with a 3.24 ERA. Those in roto 12-team leagues will likely leave Oneil Cruz and Bryan Reynolds in the lineup, but there is no member of the Bucs expected to remain active in 10-team formats or point leagues.
Looking for Salvages
SHALLOW LEAGUE SPECIAL: Trevor Megill, 54%, Milwaukee Brewers
Megill is the most available closer who plays on a team good enough to offer multiple saves this weekend. The Brewers will have their work cut out against three effective Boston starters, meaning any late-inning lead will likely be narrow.
Looking for robberies
Willi Castro (64%) and Edouard Julien (47%), Minnesota Twins
Castro and Julien lead the Twins in steals, which makes them prime candidates to steal a bag this weekend against Rangers catcher Jonah Heim, who threw out just seven would-be base stealers en route to allowing the second-most of robberies from any catcher. The left-handed Julien is especially attractive when you consider that all three of the Rangers’ starters will pitch from the right side.
Streaming Beginners
In order, here are the best streamers for the weekend, with start date and Yahoo roster rate in parentheses.
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Reese Olson x TOR (Sunday, 42)
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Dean Kremer @CWS (Saturday 39)
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Christian Scott x SF (Friday, 29)
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Taj Bradley x KC (Sunday 47)
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Michael Wacha @TB (Sunday 37)
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James Paxton @CIN (Friday the 43rd)
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Sean Manaea x SF (Sunday, 31)
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Aaron Civale x KC (Saturday, 40)
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Mitchell Parker x SEA (Sunday 20)
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Trevor Williams x SEA (Saturday 39)
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Alek Manoah @DET (Friday the 47th)
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Ben Lively @LAA (Sunday 20)
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José Soriano x CLE (Saturday, 10)
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Erick Fedde x BAL (Saturday, 49)
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Spencer Arrighetti @OAK (Saturday 2)
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Robert Gasser @BOS (Sunday 24)
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Ryan Weathers @ARI (Sunday 11)
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Chris Paddack x TEX (Saturday 20)
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Andrew Abbott x LAD (Sunday 44)
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Reid Detmers x CLE (Sunday, 30)
