As the MLB season progresses into its latter stages, teams and players are beginning to reach critical benchmarks that can define their year. For many teams, the 100-game mark is fast approaching, a point at which performance metrics and player contributions are rigorously evaluated. Among those standing out, albeit in different contexts, are Cody Bellinger, Nolan Arenado, and Alex Bregman, each experiencing a season that's worth a closer look.
Cody Bellinger's Power Numbers
In 79 games this year, Cody Bellinger has managed to hit nine home runs. These statistics are in stark contrast to his performance last season, where he launched 26 homers over 130 games. It's apparent that while Bellinger retains his power, he's yet to find the same groove that made him a staple in the 2022 lineup. His current home run tally suggests a noticeable difference, which fans and analysts will be keen to monitor as the season advances.
Nolan Arenado's Struggles at the Plate
On the flip side, Nolan Arenado, typically known for his slugging prowess and consistent offensive production, is enduring the lowest OPS of his career at .702. This mark stands out compared to his usual offensive output, prompting questions about any underlying factors that might be contributing to his slump. For a player of Arenado's caliber, a dip such as this can be a significant storyline, impacting both the team's performance and his own career trajectory.
Bobby Witt Jr.'s Impressive Weekend
Meanwhile, Bobby Witt Jr. showcased his potential with a stellar performance last Saturday, going 3-for-4 with a double, an RBI, and a run scored. Witt Jr.'s ability to make clutch plays and contribute offensively underscores his value to his team, especially as they gear up for the final stretch of the season. Such games can often serve as confidence boosters and stepping stones for young talents looking to make their mark in the league.
Alex Bregman's Hot Streak
Alex Bregman, known for his versatility and dependable bat, has been on a tear since July 4. Over 13 games, Bregman is hitting .314 with three home runs, 10 RBIs, and 10 runs scored, good for an impressive .885 OPS. This hot streak couldn't come at a better time for his team, as consistent offensive contributions are crucial during this phase of the season. His overall career performance against left-handed pitching, which includes a .278 batting average and an .862 OPS, suggests he's well-poised to continue this trend.
Matchup Preview: Bregman vs. Hogan Harris
The Athletics are set to start left-handed pitcher Hogan Harris on Monday, who carries a career 5.53 ERA. Given Bregman's historical success against lefties, this matchup could favor the Houston infielder. Harris's less-than-stellar ERA could present Bregman with ample opportunities to maintain his recent offensive output.
J.P. Crawford: Analyzing His Season
J.P. Crawford is another player with intriguing stats this season. Priced at $4,200 on DraftKings and $3,000 on FanDuel, Crawford's current numbers show a stark contrast against his career averages. Batting .284 with an .805 OPS against southpaws this season, Crawford also boasts notable power, with four home runs in 88 at-bats versus left-handers. However, his overall batting average (.204) and OPS (.643) mark his lowest in eight years.
Particularly interesting is Crawford's historical performance against Tyler Anderson, against whom he is 3-for-10 with two walks. Given these figures, daily fantasy players might find value in rostering Crawford despite his season-long struggles. Notably, McClure, an expert recognized in "Fantasy Football (and Baseball) for Smart People: How to Turn Your Hobby into a Fortune," endorses this strategy, adding credibility to the notion of betting on Crawford.
As the season progresses towards the 100-game mark, individual performances and matchups will continue to shape the landscape of the MLB. Players like Bellinger, Arenado, Witt Jr., Bregman, and Crawford each paint a unique picture with their stats and storylines, illustrating the unpredictable and thrilling nature of America's favorite pastime.