Fantasy Baseball Week 2: Key Hitters to Start and Avoid (April 6-12)
The second week of the fantasy baseball season, spanning from April 6 to April 12, presents varied opportunities for hitters. By analyzing pitching matchups, fantasy players can identify which hitters to start and which to avoid. This week, several teams are positioned favorably, while others may face challenges based on their opponents’ performance. Let’s delve into the key hitters to target and the ones to consider benching.
Key Hitters to Start
Kansas City Royals
The Kansas City Royals have a full schedule with seven games this week. They will face the Cleveland Guardians in a three-game series, featuring pitchers Tanner Bibee, Gavin Williams, and Joey Cantillo. Following that, they will play four games against the Chicago White Sox. The White Sox had a poor showing last season, and their pitching staff currently struggles, having the fourth-worst team FIP in the league. Chase DeLauter has been a standout performer, boasting an impressive slash line of .346/.370/.923.
New York Mets
The New York Mets also have six games on their agenda this week. They begin with a three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks, who have struggled this season with the fifth-worst team FIP. The Mets will face Zac Gallen, Ryne Nelson, and Eduardo Rodriguez. Following this, they will play against the Oakland Athletics, who rank 10th in team FIP. If you’re looking for a catcher to stream, Francisco Alvarez is performing well with a .286/.375/.762 slash line.
New York Yankees
The Yankees enjoy a similar six-game week, starting with three games against the Athletics and concluding with three games against the Tampa Bay Rays, who have the seventh-worst team FIP. The Yankees will see Aaron Civale, Luis Severino, and Jeffrey Springs early in the week, followed by Steven Matz, Nick Martinez, and Ryan Pepiot. Most matchups should favor the Yankees, except for Pepiot, making their hitters solid starts this week.
Hitters to Avoid
Los Angeles Angels
The Los Angeles Angels are slated for six games this week, facing the Atlanta Braves and the Cincinnati Reds. The Braves boast the fifth-best team FIP, with challenging pitchers like Chris Sale in the lineup. The Angels’ matchups raise enough concerns for mid-tier hitters, making it wise to consider other options for the week.
Athletics Hitters
The Oakland Athletics also face an uphill battle this week. They will compete in six games against both New York teams. Starting against the Yankees, who have the best team FIP, their matchups include Cam Schlittler, Will Warren, and Ryan Weathers. Then they play the Mets, who have the seventh-best team FIP. This week may not favor their mid-level hitters, leading to a recommended benching.
Arizona Diamondbacks
The Arizona Diamondbacks will face tough competition with six games. Opening against the Mets, they encounter pitchers like Freddy Peralta. Following this series, they will take on the Philadelphia Phillies, who have the fourth-best team FIP. With these challenging matchups, mid-tier D’Backs hitters are best avoided this week.
This week’s strategy centers on maximizing favorable matchups while minimizing risk for hitters. By focusing on the key players in your lineup, you can strive for a successful fantasy week.
