As the season goes on, some weeks just have really awesome two-start pitching options. We’re looking at these from both a season-long perspective (guys you can start with confidence) and a DFS point of view (who you are drafting for Fantasy Bingo or Weekly drafts).
These guys have solid matchups across the board. Remember, in points leagues, a scary matchup can still be beneficial, so don’t shy away too much based on the opposing offense alone.
Quick note: Given the time of this article being published, this list is always subject to change, but your weekly lineups and DFS slates can benefit from these hurlers regardless if they start one or two games this week.
Week 8 Two-Start Pitchers
Shota Imanaga, Cubs (1st Start – Monday)
Opponents: @ Braves, v Pirates
The definition of set it and forget it. Imanaga has been stunning since coming to the MLB with a pristine 5-0 record, ERA of 1.08, and a 0.82 WHIP – SHEESH. He’s averaging less than a home run per 9 IP, and has a K:BB ratio of 8.6.
Early call out for Rookie of the Year and a strong Cy Young candidate as we hit the back half of May.
Kutter Crawford, Red Sox (1st Start – Monday)
Opponents: v Rays, @ Cardinals
Crawford has always been good at getting guys to strikeout, and he’s averaging roughly 9 K/9 this season. Compounded with a 1.08 WHIP, 1.75 ERA, and a HR/9 under .50 show that he’s getting guys to make softer contact. He’s not giving up the long ball, and he’s got some solid matchups this week.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Dodgers (1st start – Monday)
Opponents: @ Giants, v Reds
I think the fantasy baseball community had a minor freakout when we watched Yamamoto get chased in his first MLB start during the Seoul Series. Since then, though, Yoshi has been lights out. His WHIP, even with that first start, sits at a sterling 1.00, and an opponent batting average of .213. His 2.79 ERA is still quite nice as well, and opponent exit velocity averages have only exceeded 91 MPH in one game since March.
We could be looking at another strong ROTY candidate with some Cy Young votes.
Corbin Burnes, Orioles (1st Start – Monday)
Opponents: v Blue Jays, v Mariners
Somehow, we aren’t talking about Burnes enough. He’s a stud who’s somehow not getting run support from this Orioles lineup. Having given up no more than 3 ERs in any game this season, Burnes is somehow only at 3-2 this season, with his last two starts seeing the O’s get shutout on offense.
Start him and enjoy.
Ronel Blanco, Astros (1st Start – Tuesday)
Opponents: @ Yankees, @ Tigers
These matchups are NICE. The A’s are a surprise offense, but still sitting in the middle of the pack, and it feels like the Brewers are beatable. Blanco has been the surprise of the season for a struggling Astros team, but he could squeak out some wins for you while keeping your ratios low.
Other Nice Two-Start Pitchers
Reynaldo Lopez, ATL – v Cubs, v Padres
Brady Singer, KC – @ Mariners, v Athletics
Walker Buehler, LAD – v Marlins, @ Padres
Tanner Bibee, CLE – @ Rangers, v Twins
Jose Berrios, TB – @ Orioles, v Rays
Jordan Hicks, SF – v Dodgers, v Rockies
Sean Manaea, NYM – v Phillies, @ Marlins
Which two-start pitchers are you keeping your eye on this week?
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