Playing Hardball: Reds & Giants Bats Look Good Tonight

Featuring picks and comments by Rob Dudek

With two day-night doubleheaders and one 6:35 Eastern start, “only” 13 of the 17 MLB games are included in today’s DraftStreet leagues, which close at 7:05. The Red Sox tilt against Oakland is off the board. Fortunately, they will be back to a normal evening start time in Boston by Friday. It will be ridiculously cold (again) in Denver, with rain and snow possible during the matinee. The nightcap offers Rockies’ LH batters a chance to tee off on Julio Teheran — if it’s played.

The other twin bill is in Minnesota, where there was some confusion about which pitchers would start which game. DS has solved the problem by not including either one — it’s not as if we were going to recommend any Marlins bats, but you can’t use the Twins hitters either.

It’s always free to join DraftStreet and you can start with free leagues. Or make a deposit — use the code SHHOOP to get a 30% bonus — and choose your level of play, from $2 entry fees up to $420. See you there!

Best Bets (Pitchers)

Making his fifth start already, Adam Wainwright ($16,507) has yet to walk a batter hand has fanned 28. The Nationals have a dangerous lineup, but Waino looks like the least-risky play among the highest-priced SP.

R.A. Dickey ($12,698) left early last time with a stiff back, but for six innings, the knuckleball was dancing and it isn’t serious enough to miss a start. “Last night was a low-scoring affair and this promises to be similar,” predicts Rob, “especially if the wind is blowing in again.”

You can’t ask for better circumstances than pitching against the Padres in PETCO. Brewers’ ace Yovani Gallardo ($14,365) is solid value at the price.

Live Longshots (Pitchers)

Alexi Ogando ($6,952) has done well for us when recommended before. “The one drawback is that he has not gone deep into games and probably won’t go past the sixth inning,” cautions Dudek. “At this price, even against a good Angels lineup, he’s a steal.”

Coming off back-to-back brilliant outings, Jose Quintana should cost much more than $10,002. Although Cleveland managed just one hit off the lefty on April 12, they are more familiar with him now. Still an attractive bargain.

If you don’t like Wainwright against the Nationals hitters, consider his opposite number. Ross Detwiler ($8,938) is having a fine April (0.90 ERA through 20 IP) and the lefty might be 3-0 had his bullpen not blown two leads.