Just a few short weeks ago, Yankees starting pitcher Hiroki Kuroda was in the process of putting together a Cy Young Award caliber campaign. Now, after going 0-2 with an 8.30 ERA in his last three starts, the 38 year old native of Japan is just looking to get back on track. That does not seem very likely against arch rival Boston.
The three most prominent Red Sox regulars have a combined .389 batting average over 59 at bats versus the veteran right-hander. That list includes Dustin Pedroia, Jacoby Ellsbury and another fan favorite from Fenway.
MLB Daily League Lineup Picks for August 18, 2013
- Adrian Gonzalez (1B, LAD) - After strong efforts through July and August, Gonzalez has mostly struggled over the first full week of September. That could definitely change today. During his career, A-Gon has absolutely owned the Reds Homer Bailey by smashing five longballs in just 18 at bats. Great American Ball Park, as ranked by ParkFactors.com, is the fourth best hitting environment in all of Major League Baseball.
- Miguel Cabrera (3B, DET) - Sure, Cabrera is an obvious choice practically every single day that the Tigers take the field. However, it is important to keep in mind that the 2012 AL MVP has been banged up a bit lately and that manager Jim Leyland has taken opportunities to get him rest. If he is in the starting lineup, find a way to fit Miggy in your budget. The eight time all-star has put up an incredible 1.529 OPS in 43 plate appearances against Royals' southpaw Bruce Chen.
- Doug Fister (SP, DET) - With a lack of solid opportunities in the pitching department, all due respect to Clayton Kershaw and Madison Bumgarner but Fister seems to be the safest option for the day. The fifth year big leaguer is 5-2 since the break and is sporting a solid 3.10 ERA over three starts versus Kansas City this year. Vitally important in DraftStreet leagues, his craftiness typically allows opponents very little in the area of walks and home runs. Kauffman Stadium's pitcher friendly atmosphere could easily provide a great setting for the towering righty to secure victory number 13 on the season.
Nate Miller spouts off about Fantasy Sports everyday on Twitter @Miller_WeTalkFS
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As always, remember to check your MLB daily lineups before they lock and make sure you are doing your own research, too, for optimal performance! The most successful daily leaguers are grinders who are constantly tweaking their lineups as the day goes on and fantasy news gets released. Good luck today, RotoBallers!
