Chris Welsh declared Matt Olson as an ideal buy-low fantasy target, highlighting that Olson's actual slow performance has obscured solid underlying metrics. Olson's expected batting average is significantly higher than his current production, and he maintains outstanding barrel rates and hard-hit data. Welsh expressed full confidence that Olson's true talent level will soon surface and strongly encouraged fantasy managers to seize the opportunity to buy Olson at a discounted cost right now, before positive regression boosts his value again.

Chris Welsh strongly endorsed Spencer Schwellenbach's strikeout total prop against the Marlins at slightly plus-money odds. He specifically highlighted Schwellenbach's splitter as a potential strikeout weapon against a young Marlins lineup ranked among the higher strikeout teams in MLB to start the season. Welsh expected Schwellenbach's multi-pitch arsenal to cause significant issues for Miami hitters and stated that this bet represented significant value, noting Schwellenbach as someone whose strikeouts were about to trend upwards after a quieter start.

Chris Welsh strongly endorsed Nathaniel Lowe as the best waiver wire replacement option for fantasy teams dealing with Freddie Freeman's injury. Welsh specifically noted Lowe's impressive early-season Baseball Savant metrics, highlighting strong barrel rates, increased hard-hit percentages, improved average exit velocity, and effective launch angles. Facing Brandon Pfaadt, who notably struggles against left-handed hitters, Lowe is primed for continued success and could warrant a roster spot well beyond Freeman's return. Welsh even contemplated selecting Lowe as his home run call for the day, reinforcing Lowe's intriguing potential at this stage of the season.

Joe Pisapia sarcastically noted the Mets' home opener excitement alongside joking about ordering tiramisu in a helmet. Beneath the humor, Pisapia expressed subtle concern over the Mets offense, implying fantasy managers might want to temper expectations temporarily early on, as the team historically has shown inconsistent offense at home games. Especially for DFS or daily formats, caution is warranted until the Mets start showing reliable offensive production at home.

Chris Welsh enthusiastically backed Jack Flaherty's betting prop for outs recorded against the Marlins, expecting Flaherty to go at least six innings after consistently hitting that benchmark previously. Although Welsh acknowledged the betting price was somewhat juiced at -150, he asserted confidence in Flaherty comfortably reaching six innings against a favorable matchup. Welsh particularly called out Flaherty's strong historical performance in consistently pitching deep into games and viewed the Marlins lineup as an ideal situation for this wager.

Joe Pisapia advised against trading Mark Vientos right now, describing this moment as trading at a low point in his value due to recent struggles. Instead, Pisapia suggested giving Vientos time to rebuild his value first, emphasizing that fantasy owners selling him now would be taking an unnecessary loss. Pisapia believed a short-term turnaround for Vientos is plausible and owners would be significantly better off riding out this difficult stretch before revisiting trade talks.

Chris Welsh advised against the side acquiring Mike Trout, Shane Bieber, and Jackson Jobe due to the significant cost in giving up Bryan Woo, Junior Caminero, and Luis Robert. He highlighted the concerns around Shane Bieber, labeling him as underwhelming this season, and dismissed Jobe's uncertain MLB future. Welsh clearly stated the Woo/Caminero/Robert side as the superior package, offering better current and future fantasy production, signaling caution toward acquiring Trout at this price.

Chris Welsh highlighted Dylan Crews' extreme early-season strikeout struggles, noting Crews has a staggering 52% K-rate and is presently striking out 100% against sliders, curveballs, and split fingers. Welsh emphasized that although Crews has positive underlying metrics — such as a 12.5% barrel rate, solid average exit velocity, and good max EV — the complete lack of contact nullifies these positives. Welsh strongly recommended benching Crews rather than outright dropping him in standard leagues due to his immense upside, power-speed combo potential, and chance to significantly rebound if or when he adjusts. However, in shallow leagues (10- to 12-team), Welsh acknowledged there is enough waiver-wire talent likely available, making Crews potentially droppable. Until Crews demonstrates clear improvement against breaking pitches, fantasy managers should exercise caution and bench him.

Chris Welsh definitively preferred Elly De La Cruz over Yordan Alvarez in a trade scenario, particularly emphasizing De La Cruz's roto-category upside. Noting Alvarez's slower-than-desired start this season, Welsh stated that he would easily take De La Cruz's blend of speed and power, which significantly elevates his value in roto leagues compared to Alvarez's skillset.

Joe Pisapia recommended accepting a trade involving Garrett Crochet and Bo Bichette in a keeper/dynasty league format. He argued strongly in favor of the Crochet and Bichette side (Crochet at $16, Bichette at $4), pointing out Crochet is already proving himself at the MLB level, while Bichette is an established hitter at a minimal cost. The package they are exchanging (Jackson Jobe, Matt Shaw, and Andrew Painter) presents future potential but significant uncertainty. Pisapia clearly preferred the immediate and stable production the Crochet/Bichette side provided, making it a worthwhile dynasty deal.

Chris Welsh supported benching Luis Robert temporarily, noting Robert's early-season struggles and offensive slump. While highlighting that dropping Robert outright would be premature and ill-advised, Welsh agreed benching him short-term to avoid the early negative stats impacting fantasy teams is wise. He emphasized using the bench this way, specifically sitting Roberts for alternatives like Andres Gimenez or Junior Caminero, and explicitly mentioned the struggles coming as a disappointment given Welsh's own expectations entering the year.

Chris Welsh flagged Bubba Chandler's disappointing early-season minor league debut, noting a severe lack of command (under 38% zone rate on both pitches). Welsh explained Chandler would likely require three to four more minor league starts before potentially receiving MLB consideration, suggesting that fantasy managers should temper expectations and timeline projections significantly on Chandler in the immediate future.

Joe Pisapia pointed out Christian Walker's encouraging two-for-three performance, including his first home run since joining the Houston Astros. Walker's ability to quickly adjust to his new environment and exhibit power upside makes him someone fantasy managers should consider acquiring or activating immediately as he settles into regular playing time and potentially impactful fantasy production with the Astros.

Chris Welsh suggested that fantasy managers needing to activate Gunnar Henderson off the IL should first consider dropping Victor Scott, among a group including Tyler Soderstrom and Matt Shaw. Although recognizing Scott's stolen base upside, Welsh indicated Scott was the most expendable of the trio. However, he also advised managers desperate for stolen bases to consider dropping Soderstrom instead. Ultimately, Welsh emphasized holding onto Matt Shaw at all costs, reflecting a clear preference for Shaw's long-term fantasy potential over Scott.

Chris Welsh emphatically supported stashing Brandon Woodruff on the IL, given the ongoing rotation turmoil with the Brewers and their league-worst 6.68 ERA as a pitching staff. Woodruff is ramping up again and, according to Welsh, represents tremendous upside once activated. Fantasy managers with available IL slots should roster Woodruff immediately in anticipation of him returning and stabilizing Milwaukee's struggling pitching staff.

Joe Pisapia voiced strong concerns about Jose Altuve after a troubling 0-for-5, five-strikeout performance. Given this marks at least his second occurrence of significant strikeout issues early in the season, Pisapia warned fantasy managers that these persistent strikeout problems indicate potential underlying mechanical or timing issues. He suggested caution with Altuve, who could see reduced fantasy value and prolonged struggles until he addresses these alarming strikeout patterns.

Joe Pisapia expressed concern regarding Joe Ryan after he allowed back-to-back home runs and four runs across five innings of work. Given his susceptibility to hard-hit balls and his struggles to neutralize hitters recently, fantasy players should be cautious deploying Ryan, especially when facing powerful lineups or hitting-friendly venues until he demonstrates renewed effectiveness.

Joe Pisapia advocated buying low on Matt McLain, praising his aggressive baserunning and hustle, which was evident when McLain legged out a double on a blooper hit. Pisapia believes McLain's style of play and consistent effort will endear him to management, ensuring continued opportunities. Despite concerns about his strikeout rate, Pisapia sees current lower valuations as an ideal time for savvy fantasy owners to target McLain and capitalize on his likely improved future production.

Joe Pisapia highlighted Nestor Cortes' promising bounce-back outing, noting his six shutout innings performance leading to a 1-0 victory. Pisapia emphasized Cortes' strong command and effectiveness throughout this latest appearance, suggesting it bodes very well for fantasy managers who have been concerned after recent struggles. Managers can now expect an improved and potentially more consistent form moving forward.

Joe Pisapia emphasized positive signs of life for Triston Casas after a much-needed two-run home run, highlighting his recent struggles and slow start thus far. While recognizing Casas' disappointing opening week, Pisapia suggested this performance could be the momentum-shifting event needed to begin a turnaround. Fantasy players looking for power and upside should monitor Casas closely over the next few games to see if this recent performance turns into a more sustained positive run.

Chris Welsh expressed serious concern for Kelly after a disastrous performance against the Yankees. Kelly allowed nine earned runs and 11 hard-hit balls (95 mph or harder) which Welsh labeled atrocious. Welsh specifically flagged worries about how the new torpedo bats and hitter-friendly dimensions of Yankee Stadium greatly exposed Kelly's limitations, causing significant harm to fantasy owners. Moving forward, Kelly faces increased risk and volatility, especially when pitching in hitter-friendly environments against lineups using the popular new bats. Welsh's analysis indicates Kelly may be prime candidate to fade short-term in fantasy and DFS matchups until he demonstrates significant improvement or preferable pitching contexts.

Chris Welsh highlighted Lodolo's sneaky effectiveness in his recent start for the Reds, where Lodolo went six and two-thirds innings, allowed only one run, gave up four hits, struck out four, and walked none. Interestingly, Lodolo leaned heavily on off-speed offerings, using his fastball as his third-most utilized pitch behind his curveball and changeup. Although not generating a ton of swing-and-miss, Lodolo effectively limited hard contact and exhibited solid command. Welsh expressed optimism that if Lodolo maintains this pitch mix and stays healthy, he could outperform his draft-day value and approach 'dude-level' status as the season progresses, making him an intriguing pitcher to watch closely in fantasy leagues.

Joe Pisapia mentioned Logan Henderson as an intriguing pitching prospect who could earn a spot in the Brewers rotation soon, noting the Brewers' team ERA currently ranks dead last at 6.68 and the significant injuries they're already dealing with— including Brandon Woodruff, Aaron Civale, and Wade Miley all on the shelf. Henderson already had a good start earlier this week, positioning himself well for an early-season call-up opportunity. Considering the chaos and general underperformance in Milwaukee's rotation early in the year, he’s highlighted as a useful speculative fantasy pickup in deeper leagues and someone to track closely for spot-start potential in April.

Ryan Wormeli expressed strong interest in claiming Casey Mize as a waiver wire pickup, citing impressive pedigree as former consensus first overall pick. Now fully recovered from the injury that cost Mize all of 2023, Wormeli highlighted his strong initial outing (5.2 IP, earned first win) and noted he's adopting the trendy new sweeper pitch, which historically helps increase strikeouts—a current weakness in Mize's profile. Although cautious about overreacting to one start, Wormeli strongly believes Mize's pedigree and possible new sweeper pitch represent genuine upside worth speculating on immediately, especially given his minimal 15% roster rate.

Ryan Wormeli advocates aggressively targeting Heston Kjerstad off waivers following Colton Cowser's thumb injury, which may sideline him for two months and open playing time for Kjerstad. Wormeli believes manager Brandon Hyde has underestimated Kjerstad's ability to hit left-handed pitching. Emphasizing Kjerstad's impressive raw power potential, Wormeli strongly believes this newly opened everyday opportunity in Baltimore's lineup could allow Kjerstad to finally blossom. Kjerstad currently sits at just 7% rostered, and Wormeli strongly recommends immediate pickups to speculate on his breakout potential.

Mike Maer highlighted Brady Singer as an intriguing deep league waiver pickup due to his meaningful adjustments early this season. Singer shifted his pitch usage by largely eliminating his sweeper and reducing slider reliance, instead adding an effective cutter. Maer saw this cutter-slider repertoire as significantly stronger in terms of pitch tunneling and deception, noting Singer looked very good in his most recent start. Despite long-standing prospect fatigue with Singer, Maer encouraged fantasy managers in deeper formats to capitalize on what appears to be Singer's effective pitch-mix modification.

Mike Maer stressed that Jesus Luzardo and Dustin May should be universally added immediately if available, both with a roster percentage under 50%. Maer labeled them urgent pickups based on stellar early-season pitching performances, reminding fantasy managers they've been previously overlooked and forgotten due to injuries or inconsistencies. explicitly emphasizing Luzardo's outstanding raw stuff and potential to deliver ace-level production moving forward.

Mike Maer recommended targeting Otto Lopez on waiver wires, particularly if managers need short-term middle infield help. Lopez currently sits around 46% rostered, according to consensus metrics. Maer warned Lopez's unexpected early power surge likely won't last, but stressed Lopez's steady batting average and reliable stolen base potential make him worth rostering while he's hot. Acknowledging Lopez may not become a season-long hold, Maer sees him as a solid short-term waiver addition offering immediate, much-needed stolen base assistance from the middle infield position.

Ryan Wormeli highlighted Alek Thomas as an excellent deep league waiver wire addition, noting that despite being rostered in only 2% of leagues, Thomas has come out swinging with a fast start this season. Wormeli liked Thomas post-injury last season and is encouraged by his early production this year. Wormeli advises managers in deep formats to quickly add Thomas and potentially get outsized returns on minimal investment given his hot bat and extremely low current roster percentage.

Mike Maer reinforced concerns regarding Andres Gimenez's fantasy value due to the Blue Jays' notably reduced willingness to run on the bases. Maer underlined that Gimenez was typically drafted for his 30-steal potential and a reliable fantasy floor of speed. Given Toronto's base-stealing philosophy shift, Maer estimates Gimenez's best-case scenario for 2025 includes a .280 average with just 10 home runs and a maximum of 20 stolen bases, which is notably below initial expectations. Despite speculation of potentially juiced baseballs improving Gimenez's outlook slightly, Maer found limited upside and stated clearly he doubts Gimenez will exceed 20 stolen bases unless the Blue Jays substantially alter their strategy.

Mike Maer identified Willson Contreras as an excellent buy-low candidate after an extremely poor start to the season (0 for 19, nine strikeouts with no positive counting stats). Given the scarcity at catcher and Contreras' guaranteed role and past production history, owners panic-dropping or trading Contreras at a discount provide savvy fantasy managers an opportunity to acquire him cheaply. Maer expressed strong confidence in Contreras bouncing back to produce solid end-of-year numbers, warranting a trade for him early in the season.

Mike Maer encouraged fantasy managers to buy low on William Contreras after his disappointing early-season performance (2 for 16, .125 average). Given the thin waiver-wire options at the catcher position and Contreras' secure and prominent lineup spot, Maer asserted that panicking managers early in the year create favorable trade conditions. Even acquiring Contreras at his original draft price represents great value, according to Maer, since end-of-year numbers and consistent playing time make a resurgence highly likely.

Mike Maer urged managers to immediately sell high on Eugenio Suarez following the third baseman's hot start featuring five early-season home runs and a .278 batting average. Maer explained Suarez's value is at its peak as owners needing power or a third base anchor become desperate early in the season. Citing Suarez's volatile track record, Maer reminded listeners of Suarez's historically low floor, which has included batting averages near or below .200. Given this risk and uncertainty around sustained production, Maer believes Suarez should be traded now for a safer return before regression inevitably strikes again.

Ryan Wormeli advised fantasy managers to sell high on Andres Gimenez right away, considering his unexpected early-season three home runs as an unsustainable power surge. Wormeli explained that Gimenez's historically poor Statcast metrics (consistently low barrel rate and exit velocities) do not support this sudden power gain. He also highlighted significant concerns regarding stolen bases; despite Gimenez previously stealing 30 bases in consecutive seasons, he's transitioned to Toronto, a team that ranks consistently low in stolen base attempts. Wormeli projected Gimenez to severely underperform his draft value unless stolen base volume dramatically increases.

Ryan Wormeli strongly recommended buying high on Adley Rutschman despite his good start and inflated price tag. Wormeli highlighted Rutschman's impressive underlying metrics, noting his current .286 batting average has room to improve with an expected batting average of .344. Wormeli pointed out Rutschman's powerful performance in Toronto, hitting two long home runs on opening day, demonstrating he's dialed in and healthy after last year's second-half injury struggles. Wormeli believes Rutschman will sustain and even elevate this early-season success, finishing as the top fantasy catcher in 2025 despite several lineup injuries for Baltimore.

Joe Pisapia advises fantasy and betting managers not to overreact to the Braves' 0-7 start. He emphasized that star players like Spencer Strider and Ronald Acuna Jr. will soon return, significantly improving the team's outlook. Pisapia pointed out that Atlanta's odds to win their division have dramatically improved to plus 320 from initial minus 115 odds, presenting a good betting opportunity for those who remain bullish on their ability to bounce back. Despite historical stats suggesting no team has made playoffs after an 0-7 start, Pisapia maintains confidence in Atlanta's talent and sees strong value in betting them now at significantly improved odds.

Chris Welsh projected the Cardinals are moving towards dealing Nolan Arenado and potentially Sonny Gray as they commit to giving playing time to emerging young players. Welsh noted Arenado and Gray as probable trade candidates, citing Gray's early struggles and the team's evident shift to a youth movement. Players like Ivan Herrera, Jordan Walker, Lars Nootbaar, and Victor Scott are highlighted as integral pieces of this next generation. Fantasy managers should prepare for Arenado's value to fluctuate with a trade and focus attention towards St. Louis' younger talent pool as more actionable fantasy opportunities open up.

Chris Welsh expressed skepticism over Lucas Giolito's immediate fantasy appeal despite his brief, scoreless performance returning from a hamstring injury. Welsh mentioned the crowded rotation situation in Boston, listing several other pitchers ahead or competing with him. As a result, Welsh advised managers to avoid aggressively targeting Giolito in the short term, as he is likely to be handled cautiously, lowering immediate fantasy returns. Giolito could be worth consideration in very deep leagues later in the season, but current rotation uncertainty and likely early workload limitations hamper his immediate value.

Chris Welsh toned down prior concerns about Zac Gallen's fantasy outlook after witnessing a dominant rebound performance where Gallen struck out 13 batters against the Yankees. Welsh emphasized Gallen dramatically improved his fastball command, raising it back to a 31% utilisation rate in the zone. This adjustment enabled his secondary pitches—including a devastating knuckle curve (13 whiffs on 18 swings) and a changeup with a 63% whiff rate—to become more effective. Previously alarmed by Gallen's shaky first start and fastball struggles, Welsh now confidently reaffirms Gallen's status as a high-end fantasy ace, lamenting the missed opportunity to advise managers to buy low.

Chris Welsh criticized the Rockies' management for impeding Zac Veen's path to major league at-bats by signing veterans like Mickey Moniak instead of promoting talented young players such as Veen. He described Veen as volatile and still striking out frequently, but exciting and entertaining due to his power-speed combo. However, Welsh expressed frustration with the Rockies' approach, indicating their actions significantly delay Veen's immediate fantasy relevance. Fantasy managers should temper short-term expectations for Veen due to organizational mismanagement, despite his appealing raw talent.

Joe Pisapia signaled concern for Clay Holmes after a shaky performance, emphasizing that his spring training success largely came throwing to catcher Francisco Alvarez, who pitchers reportedly prefer working with. Pisapia suspects changing catchers could be disrupting Holmes' rhythm, suggesting fantasy managers closely monitor Holmes' performance in the absence of Alvarez as it could influence Holmes' strikeout upside and overall fantasy reliability moving forward.

With David Bednar sent down and Colin Holderman struggling, Chris Welsh identified Dennis Santana as the favorite to close games for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Welsh pointed out Santana's scoreless ninth inning, overcoming control issues with his 95 mph fastball and effectively mixing sliders to induce weak contact. Fantasy managers in need of saves should prioritize Santana as he's clearly set to get more save opportunities in Pittsburgh.

With David Bednar sent down and Colin Holderman struggling, Chris Welsh identified Dennis Santana as the favorite to close games for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Welsh pointed out Santana's scoreless ninth inning, overcoming control issues with his 95 mph fastball and effectively mixing sliders to induce weak contact. Fantasy managers in need of saves should prioritize Santana as he's clearly set to get more save opportunities in Pittsburgh.

Despite Mark Vientos' recent 0-for-5 night, Joe Pisapia identified him as a prime buy-low target in fantasy leagues. Pisapia pointed out that even while Vientos struggled to get hits, he continued producing hard contact. Pisapia remains bullish on Vientos' season-long fantasy outlook, expecting a rebound and advising fantasy managers to capitalize on his slow start by acquiring him at a lower cost while they can.

Joe Pisapia strongly advocates picking up St. Louis Cardinals outfielder Jordan Walker, who's off to a scorching start batting .389 with a .500 OBP and impressive OPS over 1.000 through five games. Walker's underlying skills show notable improvement: he's hitting the ball hard consistently, getting the ball in the air, limiting strikeouts, and demonstrating a refined swing resulting from offseason adjustments. Pisapia expects Walker's strong start to push him higher in the lineup and potentially hit cleanup if Nolan Arenado is traded. Given the early stage of the season, Pisapia recommends being aggressive in bidding for Walker, suggesting spending around 8-10% of total FAAB budget to secure him, as he's likely to be a highly sought-after pickup with significant upside.

Chris Welsh remains bullish on A.J. Puk as the primary closer for the Diamondbacks despite giving up a home run to Anthony Volpe. He notes Puk still secured another save and has clearly locked down the closer role. Welsh advised managers not to overreact to the blown save and strongly recommended keeping faith in Puk's role and fantasy production moving forward.

Joe Pisapia highlighted that Dennis Santana is in line for saves following Bednar's demotion, agreeing with colleague Chris Welsh's assessment. He pointed out Santana overcame control struggles with effective slider use and a high-velocity fastball in a recent ninth inning save. Pisapia endorsed Santana as a valuable pickup for any fantasy owners targeting saves, seeing this role as clearly Santana's to lose moving forward.

Chris Welsh elevated Jack Leiter's fantasy profile, citing two consecutive strong starts where Leiter displayed improved command, a solid slider, and an outstanding fastball. While Welsh doesn't yet consider Leiter a 'must-grab', he's no longer just a casual streamer. Welsh recommended Leiter as someone worth picking up and holding in competitive leagues due to the visible improvements and potential established upside.

Chris Welsh indicated caution on MacKenzie Gore following a start where Gore gave up significant hard contact, despite only two earned runs allowed with five strikeouts in five innings. Welsh noted Gore's slider usage notably dropped from 20% down to 7%, forcing reliance on his fastball and curveball. Welsh believes getting back to higher slider usage is key, advising fantasy managers to carefully manage Gore's starts based on matchups rather than considering him a set-and-forget weekly option.

Joe Pisapia expressed caution about MacKenzie Gore's fantasy profile following a shaky outing. While he acknowledged Gore's potential for significant strikeouts, he categorized him as a matchup-dependent, borderline starter rather than a reliable weekly option. Pisapia projected Gore's ERA to hover near 4.00 and emphasized that, despite occasional big games, he's not universally trustworthy for every fantasy start. Managers should temper expectations for Gore, leaning more on him as a solid strikeout source in specific matchups rather than as a locked-in, weekly rotation piece.