Outlook Maxwell Muncy
Muncy's recent power surge offers intrigue, but playing time hurdles cap his weekly value.
Muncy has driven in seven runs over his last five games, highlighted by a home run and a .444 slugging percentage. He is currently a backup at third base, but the third-place Athletics are dealing with an injury to Brent Rooker, which could free up some utility and designated hitter at-bats. Muncy will look to help his 35-36 squad stay competitive in a tight division race.
While Muncy's recent run-producing burst is encouraging, his .236 batting average this year and career .221 mark suggest his current production is a bit of a fluke. Our models project a more neutral .250 average rest of season, but his modest projected power of eight home runs means his overall fantasy ceiling is limited in standard leagues.
The Athletics have a full seven-game home slate this week, facing the Pirates and the Angels. Muncy draws a mix of matchups, including highly favorable spots against high-ERA starters like Mitch Keller and Grayson Rodriguez. However, since he remains in a backup role with insecure playing time, fantasy managers should sit him this week.
Updated 11 hrs ago
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Outlook Sal Stewart
Reds rookie Sal Stewart looks to snap a cold spell as a demanding six-game slate looms against New York's pitching staffs.
The 22-year-old phenom has cooled off significantly, batting just .178 over his last 14 days, though he has maintained a solid eye with five walks in his last six games. Playing as Cincinnati's everyday first baseman, he is currently trying to carry a fifth-place Reds team that is missing superstar shortstop Elly De La Cruz due to injury.
Despite the temporary slump, Stewart's overall season remains highly impressive, boasting 13 homers, 10 steals, and a .251 batting average over 70 games. Our models project a strong rest-of-season finish with a projected .263 batting average and 18 total home runs, indicating that his current dry spell is a minor regression rather than a cause for panic.
The week ahead features a balanced six-game schedule, starting at home against the Mets before traveling to face the formidable Yankees. While he should find success early in the week against Tobias Myers and his 4.35 ERA, matchups against Cam Schlittler (1.82 ERA) and Gerrit Cole (2.45 ERA) will test the rookie, but his guaranteed volume makes him a mandatory option. Verdict: Start.
Updated 11 hrs ago
