Justin Mason’s Baseball Chat – August 5th, 2024

Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images reports on recent starting pitcher playing time changes, highlighting Stephen Kolek's impressive transition to the rotation for the SDP and Zebby Matthews potentially earning starts for MIN. Additionally, notable reliever IP projections have shifted, with Keegan Thompson possibly being DFA'd by CHC and Steven Okert excelling for HOU. Diego Castillo in COL and Justin Dunn in CHW are standing out in bullpen competitions, while Hogan Harris for ATH is emerging as a...

Rafael Devers may end up being the Boston Red Sox's Opening Day DH despite previously stating he preferred to play third base. He has since expressed willingness to be the DH, stating he will do whatever the team wants. Devers has not played in a spring game yet due to a shoulder injury, but is expected to make his debut soon. Alex Bregman, who is a superior defender, has been playing third base and DH...

On Aug 17, 2024, St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Ryan Helsley secured the final out against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Busch Stadium, ending the game in the ninth inning. Helsley, a top fantasy closer, had an impressive 2024 season with 79 strikeouts and 49 saves. Sonny Gray, another standout pitcher for the Cardinals, had a solid season with 203 strikeouts over 166 1/3 innings, making him a valuable fantasy starter. Additionally, the Cardinals have promising...

Mike Watters of Imagn Images reported on the latest playing time changes for position players, noting significant shifts in projected plate appearances for various players. Victor Scott II of STL earned the starting CF spot over Siani, while Drew Avans impressed during camp. Kristian Campbell is making a strong case for increased playing time, with Masataka Yoshida seeing a decrease due to Devers potentially taking on more DH duties. Full Article

Major League Baseball's 2025 Opening Day is approaching, and teams are finalizing their starting pitchers for the first game of the season. Updates on Opening Day starters are being tracked, with notable pitchers like Corbin Burnes, Luis Severino, Chris Sale, Zack Eflin, Garrett Crochet, and Shane Bieber among those expected to take the mound. The honor of being named an Opening Day starter is significant, and the anticipation is building as teams prepare to kick...