Leading Off April 17th, 2025 (Ep. 979)
Digest
This fantasy baseball podcast covers a range of topics, including player analysis and waiver wire strategies. The hosts discuss Brent Rooker's outfield return and Nick Kurtz's potential call-up. Spencer Strider's velocity dip after his return is analyzed, along with Chris Bassitt's strong start. Bobby Miller's struggles lead to a recommendation to drop him, while Christian Walker's strong underlying metrics despite a low batting average suggest holding him. Gavin Williams' performance is also evaluated. The podcast includes minor league updates, focusing on David Bednar's potential return, Edgar Caro's call-up, and Kate Horton's strong performance. Injury updates for Matt Walner, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and others are provided. Finally, the hosts offer betting picks, including player props and run lines, and discuss starting pitching options like Pepeo and Bush/Torque, as well as whether to drop Robbie Ray.
Outlines
Player Performance Analysis & Early Season Outlook
Analysis of Brent Rooker's return, Spencer Strider's velocity dip, and Chris Bassitt's strong start. Discussion includes speculation on Nick Kurtz's call-up and the sustainability of Bassitt's performance.
Waiver Wire Decisions & Player Evaluations
In-depth discussion of Bobby Miller's struggles (advising against rostering him), Christian Walker's performance (despite low batting average, recommend holding), and evaluations of Gavin Williams and other players.
Minor League Updates, Injury Reports & Potential Pickups
Updates on minor league players, including David Bednar's potential return, Edgar Caro's call-up, and Kate Horton's strong performance in Triple-A. Injury updates for Matt Walner, Christian Encarnacion-Strand, and others are also discussed.
Betting Picks and Additional Player Discussion
Discussion of starting pitching options (Pepeo and Bush/Torque), advice on dropping Robbie Ray, and various other player discussions, culminating in daily betting picks (player props and run lines).
Keywords
Fantasy Baseball
Advice and analysis for fantasy baseball players.
Waiver Wire
Strategies for adding and dropping players from your fantasy baseball roster.
Player Analysis
In-depth evaluations of MLB players' performance and potential.
MLB Injury Report
Updates on injuries affecting MLB players and their fantasy implications.
Betting Picks
Recommendations for MLB game bets, including player props and run lines.
Underlying Metrics
Advanced statistics used to evaluate player performance beyond surface-level numbers.
Velocity Dip
A decrease in a pitcher's fastball speed.
Minor League Prospects
Discussion of promising minor league players and their potential impact on MLB teams.
Q&A
Should I drop Bobby Miller from my fantasy team?
Based on his recent poor performance and lack of command, it's recommended to drop Bobby Miller, especially in redraft leagues.
Is Christian Walker worth holding onto despite his low batting average?
Yes, despite his low batting average, Christian Walker's strong underlying metrics suggest a potential turnaround. It's advisable to hold him.
What are your best bets for today's MLB games?
The hosts recommend several player props and a first five innings run line bet. They also suggest betting against Patrick Corbin.
Show Notes
Chris Welsh (@IsItTheWelsh) and Joe Orrico (@JoeOrrico99) recorded this episode of "Leading Off" LIVE on Twitch! Make sure you follow us on Twitch at twitch.tv/fantasypros and never miss a stream!
Timestamps: (May be off due to ads)
Intro - 0:00:00
Brent Rooker/Nick Kurtz - 0:01:43
Spencer Strider - 0:05:10
Chris Bassitt - 0:07:52
Bobby Miller - 0:09:47
Michael Toglia - 0:11:56
Max Meyer - 0:12:39
Jackson Holliday - 0:12:57
Gavin Williams - 0:13:36
Christian Walker - 0:15:22
David Bednar - 0:18:32
Rookie Lookie - 0:18:57
Kyzatrex - 0:26:48
3 Up, 3 Down - 0:29:26
Cal Raleigh, Chris Bassitt, and Patrick Corbin - 0:29:29
German Marquez, Aaron Nola, and Golden Sombreros - 0:31:18
Injury Updates - 0:31:57
MLB Best Bets - 0:35:20
HR Board and HR Calls - 0:39:29
Outro - 0:42:29
Helpful Links:
Twitch - FantasyPros is now LIVE on Twitch! When the MLB season begins, join us every weekday at 12 PM Eastern for Leading Off -- your daily dose of fantasy baseball news, insights, and strategy. Ask questions, get insight, and interact live! Follow us now at twitch.tv/fantasypros and never miss a stream! A bigger lineup of exclusive, interactive live content is on the way!
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