Farah Ben Gamra
We’re into the thick of summer and the pressure’s on. There are some great pitching matchups this week, aces going ace, rookies getting tested and a few arms flying under the radar. Here’s what to watch.
Lucas Giolito (Red Sox) vs. Chris Paddack (Twins) — Tuesday
Lucas Giolito has been exactly what Boston needed: steady, reliable and occasionally dominant. He’s facing a Twins lineup that’s been hot and cold all year. Paddack hasn’t looked like himself and if Boston’s lefties get to him early it could be another long one. Either way it’s a solid midweek matchup between two teams in the playoff hunt.
Max Fried (Yankees) vs. Joe Boyle (Rays) — Tuesday
The Yankees brought in Max Fried to stabilize their rotation and now he gets a big one at home vs. Tampa. He’s been sharp since arriving in the Bronx. Boyle has the raw stuff, heat, spin, strikeouts, but not always the cleanest command. If both are on, this could be an AL East classic. If Boyle’s not, the Yankees lineup will feast.
Cam Schlittler (Yankees) vs. Will Warren (Rays) — Wednesday
This one’s for the pitching nerds. Schlittler is still finding his way after a few MLB starts. He’s got some swing-and-miss but is walking a tightrope with control issues. Warren is a bit further along and has been quietly solid lately. Not the flashiest names but a cool look at two young guys with something to prove.
Luis Castillo (Mariners) vs. Rangers —Saturday
Two starts this week for Luis Castillo which is always good news if you’re playing fantasy. First up is Oakland whose offense has been one of MLB’s weakest. Then it’s Texas which could be a bit more dangerous. Castillo has been locked in lately and these are two matchups where he could rack up K’s and go deep.
Logan Webb (Giants) vs. Pirates — Wednesday
Webb at home is as good as it gets. The Giants righty has been great at Oracle Park and now he gets a Pirates lineup that can’t get anything going against righties all year. Not flashy, not loud, but if you like precision and grounders Webb’s always worth a look.
