Chris Mitchell is targeting Bowden Francis as a prime buy-low pitcher due to his dual SP/RP eligibility and drastically improved second-half performance last season. After a disastrous start to 2024, Francis turned around strongly in the second half, dominating with high strikeout numbers and elite ratios which Mitchell compares favorably to Cy Young-caliber pitching. He notes Francis started 2025 strong already with a quality start and four strikeouts. Mitchell anticipates Francis being virtually untouchable trade-wise once he accumulates around six starts, strong ratios, and high strikeout totals by May. He recommends offering second-tier closers or hot-starting arms like Robbie Ray or Zach Eflin to acquire Francis early.

Previously praising Francis' strong spring, Eric Lindquist now specifically advises betting Bowden Francis to exceed 4.5 strikeouts. Francis dominated after returning from injury last year with elite numbers—1.53 ERA, 0.53 WHIP, and a 56-to-7 strikeout-to-walk ratio from late July onward, resulting in borderline Cy Young-caliber play down the stretch. Lindquist stresses Francis clearly stands out among today's fifth-starter options, making this a prime spot to capitalize on Francis' elite strikeout upside against a struggling Nationals lineup prone to Ks, with this wager attractively priced at -130 odds on DraftKings.

Eric Lindquist singled out Toronto pitcher Bowden Francis as someone to watch closely due to a particularly strong second half last season and standout spring training performances. Lindquist noted his excitement around Francis' potential, even as he referred to much of the day's pitchers as subpar options due to fifth-starter rotations. While Lindquist didn't specify a bet involving Francis directly, his confidence indicates potential value in matchups featuring Francis through early season DFS contests or selective betting opportunities.