There are five games on the late-night slate for DraftKings. Even in the last week of the season, we have most of the teams playing for something tonight. Let’s get right to it and look at some locks and some value plays as MLB DFS for September 22 takes a West Coast swing.
Pitchers
Framber Valdez ($9,700) at Seattle Mariners
While Valdez is the second-highest priced pitcher on the slate, there are a few things working for him tonight. The Mariners are in the bottom-third of the American League in most offensive categories including OPS, HRs, and Ks. In six of his last eight games, Valdez has thrown 100+ pitches and made it through seven innings. In five of his last eight starts, he has struck out at least seven, hitting double-digits twice. Lock him in.
Drew Smyly ($7,600) vs. Colorado Rockies
While Smyly hasn’t gone long enough to get a win this year as a starter, he has been on a strikeout binge. Of his last 35 outs, 23 have come via the K. In his last start, he lasted 78 pitches which was a season-high. Both of these teams are battling for a final spot in the postseason. Smyly will step up tonight at home and give you value with his strikeout upside and the possibility of getting through five innings and grabbing the win.
Infield
Nick Solak 2B ($3,200)
After a rough patch, Solak has been killing the ball over the past two games. He is five for his last eight and even has a SB in each of his last two games. It equates to 35 DK points in that time and he faces Caleb Smith, a lefty. Solak is batting .344 against southpaws this season. While he may only face Smith once, it may be enough to get you value immediately.
Evan Longoria 3B ($4,200)
While Longoria has actually been cold the past two games, he should get right tonight against lefty Kyle Freeland. Longo is 16-48 with three bombs against southpaws this season. He also hits Freeland well, going 6-18 with a HR in his career against the Rockies starter. If you don’t want to pay up for Manny Machado or Anthony Rendon, Longoria is a solid value pick.
Outfield
Michael Brantley OF ($3,800)
Brantley has three multi-hit games in his last four. He is also facing righty Ljay Newsome who hasn’t been very good this season. Brantley is killing right-handers this year to the tune of a .935 OPS as opposed to a .692 OPS vs. lefties. He is a very consistent player and offers a great floor so the Houston outfielder should be in your lineup especially in cash games.
Pavin Smith OF ($2,900)
The kid came up 10 days ago but hasn’t disappointed. He has a hit in six of the seven games he has played in and is 8-26 with a triple and a SB. He gets to face Jordan Lyles tonight. The Texas righty has given up six HRs in 114 PAs to lefties this season. Look for Smith to get his first MLB homer.
Good luck tonight everyone.
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