MLB Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-06-28

Welcome back to the SportsPulse DFS Desk, your weekly guide to dominating DraftKings and FanDuel. After a week of upsets and standout performances, including the Angels' 5-2 win over the Athletics, it's time to refine your lineups for maximum profit. Let's dive into the actionable picks that will put you ahead of the competition.

Top 3 Players to START This Week

1. Freddie Freeman (1B - Los Angeles Dodgers): Freeman is a DFS cornerstone, and this week he's set up for another monster performance. He's currently slashing .315/.410/.550 with consistent extra-base hit power and a high walk rate, ensuring a solid floor. Facing a slate of right-handed pitching and playing in hitter-friendly parks, Freeman’s elite contact skills and plate discipline make him a must-start who will rack up points through hits, walks, and RBIs. 2. Luis Castillo (SP - Seattle Mariners): "La Piedra" has been on an absolute tear, boasting a sub-2.50 ERA over his last five starts with an impressive 10.5 K/9 rate. His fastball velocity is up, and his slider is nasty. He’s projected to face a weaker offensive lineup that struggles with high-velocity pitching. Look for Castillo to dominate, piling up strikeouts and limiting baserunners, making him a prime candidate for a quality start bonus and a win. 3. Juan Soto (OF - New York Yankees): Soto continues to prove why he’s one of the game's best. With a .400+ OBP and recent power surge, he's a consistent fantasy producer. He’s hitting in the heart of a potent Yankees lineup, ensuring ample RBI opportunities. His ability to draw walks provides a high floor, while his recent home run power against both lefties and righties gives him massive ceiling potential this week.

1. Spencer Torkelson (1B - Detroit Tigers): Torkelson is mired in a deep slump, struggling to make consistent contact and lacking power. His average has dipped below .200, and his strikeout rate remains alarmingly high. While the potential is there, his current form makes him far too risky to roster, especially against the stronger pitching matchups he's likely to face this week. Bench him until he shows signs of turning things around. 2. Josiah Gray (SP - Washington Nationals): Gray has shown flashes, but his inconsistency, particularly with control, makes him a risky play. He's posted a high ERA in recent outings, walking too many batters and giving up costly home runs. Facing a hot lineup with several power bats, Gray

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