MLB Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-24

Welcome back, DFS loyalists! Your SportsPulse.com analyst is here to navigate the MLB landscape and put you on the path to green. After a week that saw the Nationals stun the Braves, it’s clear that opportunity lurks in unexpected places. Let’s dive into the picks that will give you the edge on DraftKings and FanDuel.

Top 3 Players to START This Week

First up, Adley Rutschman (BAL C). Rutschman has been an absolute force, hitting .367 with 2 HR and 7 RBI over his last seven games, including three multi-hit efforts. He’s facing a schedule dominated by struggling pitching rotations and bullpens, providing a fantastic floor and ceiling. His plate discipline ensures he’ll be on base, and the Orioles' potent lineup behind him means plenty of RBI opportunities. Lock him in for consistent production.

Next, get Tarik Skubal (DET SP) into your lineups. Skubal is dealing. He’s coming off a dominant 7-inning, 10-strikeout performance against a potent offense, allowing just one earned run. His fastball velocity is up, and his slider is generating an elite whiff rate. This week, he faces a Royals team that ranks in the top five for strikeout percentage against left-handed pitching. Skubal is primed for another high-K, low-ERA outing, making him a top-tier pitching option.

Finally, Corbin Carroll (ARI OF) is a must-start. Despite a slow start to the season, Carroll has ignited recently, going 7-for-15 with 2 HR, 3 SB, and 5 RBI in his last four games. He's regained his speed and power stroke, looking like the dynamic player we expect. The Diamondbacks have a favorable schedule against several middle-of-the-road pitching staffs, perfect for Carroll to continue racking up hits, steals, and runs. His multi-category upside is too good to pass up.

Top 2 Players to SIT/BENCH This Week

Be wary of Rafael Devers (BOS 3B) this week. Devers is in a bit of a slump, hitting just .180 with a single extra-base hit over his last 25 at-bats. More critically, he’s slated to face two tough left-handed starters, against whom he has historically struggled this season (a paltry .205 average). His salary remains high, but his recent form and unfavorable matchups make him a significant risk for the price. Look elsewhere for third base production.

Also, consider benching Miles Mikolas (STL SP). Mikolas has been shelled in his last two starts, surrendering 9 earned runs across 10 innings, with a concerning drop in strikeout rate. This week, he draws a road start against a red-hot Dodgers lineup that has been crushing right-handed pitching, boasting a league-leading team OPS in the last ten days. The potential for another short, high-scoring outing is too great to justify his inclusion, even at a lower salary.

Two Value/Bargain Plays Under Salary Cap

For incredible value, target Masyn Winn (STL SS). Winn has quietly put together a strong run, hitting .315 with 2 HR and 4 SB in his last ten games, often batting in the top half of the Cardinals' lineup. His salary remains surprisingly low on both platforms. He offers multi-category production at a discount, especially with favorable matchups against several less-than-dominant pitchers.

Another excellent bargain is Brent Rooker (OAK OF). Rooker is known for his power against right-handers, and this week the Athletics face a string of mediocre right-handed starters. He’s hit 3 HR in his last five games against RHP and is often overlooked due to his team context. At his low price point, Rooker provides massive home run upside for minimal investment, freeing up salary for your top-tier picks.

My bold contrarian pick this week is Joey Gallo (WSH

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