MLB Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-26

Welcome back, SportsPulse.com DFS sharps! Another week of MLB action is upon us, and with the Orioles and Rays slugging it out, it's clear offense is back on the menu. Let's dive into my top picks for your DraftKings and FanDuel lineups, designed to give you that winning edge.

Top 3 Players to START This Week

First up, Freddie Freeman (LAD). The Dodgers' first baseman is locked in, batting an absurd .380 over his last seven games with two homers and eight RBIs. He's facing a slate of pitching with exploitable ERAs this week, including a series against the Reds and Rockies, which are favorable matchups. Freeman's consistency and high OBP floor make him a cash game staple and GPP contender.

Next, I'm rolling with Spencer Strider (ATL) on the mound. While he can give up a long ball, his strikeout upside is unparalleled. He's averaging over 12 K/9 this season and recently punched out 10 batters in his last outing against the Cubs. Against a division rival with a high swing-and-miss rate, Strider is primed for another dominant fantasy performance, delivering elite points in strikeouts and wins.

Finally, let's slot in Bobby Witt Jr. (KC) at shortstop. Witt Jr. has been on an absolute tear, hitting .350 with three stolen bases and two home runs over his last 10 games. His power-speed combination is a fantasy goldmine, and he's currently red-hot. The Royals have a favorable schedule, and Witt Jr. is hitting in the heart of their lineup, ensuring plenty of opportunities to rack up fantasy points.

Top 2 Players to SIT/BENCH This Week

I'm advising you to SIT Giancarlo Stanton (NYY) this week. While the power is always tempting, Stanton's all-or-nothing approach has led to a .200 average and a high strikeout rate (over 35%) in recent weeks. He's facing a tough slate of pitchers, including some elite arms, which will expose his current struggles. His high salary makes him a significant risk for negative value.

Also, BENCH Josiah Gray (WSH). Gray has been susceptible to the long ball, giving up five home runs in his last three starts, contributing to a lofty 6.00 ERA in that span. He's slated to face a potent Dodgers lineup this week, a team known for their patience and power. The matchup is simply too dangerous, and Gray's propensity for giving up big innings makes him a fade.

Two Value/Bargain Plays Under Salary Cap

For value, look no further than Masyn Winn (STL). The Cardinals' young shortstop has been quietly productive, getting on base consistently and showing off his speed with three stolen bases in the last two weeks. He's typically priced very affordably, and if he gets on base, his speed can turn singles into doubles, offering multi-category upside at a low cost, especially if he bats near the top of the order against left-handed pitching.

Another excellent value pick is Jake Burger (MIA). Despite some recent struggles, Burger offers immense power potential at a low salary. He has multiple home runs against left-handed pitching this season and is due for some positive regression. If the Marlins face any southpaws this week, Burger is an ideal low-cost, high-ups

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