X
Lost password?

Don't have an account?
Gain Access Now

X

Receive free daily analysis

NFL
NBA
NHL
NASCAR
CFB
MLB
MMA
PGA
ESPORTS
BETTING

Already have an account? Log In

X

Forgot Password


POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Daily Stats & Leaders
All Pitcher Matchups
Compare Any Players
Compare Any Players
Rookies & Call-Ups
24x7 News and Alerts

DraftKings, FanDuel Daily Fantasy Baseball Picks (Main Slate - 5/17/23): Today's Top MLB DFS Lineups

Spencer Strider fantasy baseball rankings waiver wire pickups draft sleepers starting pitchers

The top main-slate daily fantasy baseball lineup picks for FanDuel and DraftKings on May 17, 2023. Kevin Hickey's MLB DFS analysis and sleepers for building optimal DFS rosters.

Happy Wednesday, RotoBallers! I'm excited to be covering another fun DFS slate. The MLB season has been good to me in the early going, so I'm looking forward to sifting through another crop of games. Let's break down my favorite plays from today's main slate!

With games scattered throughout the day, we're down to a seven-game main slate. Today's matchups feature no shortage of top-line pitching options, opening up plenty of opportunities to get creative with your lineup builds. I'll point out the standout plays.

This article will provide my daily fantasy baseball lineup picks for DraftKings and FanDuel on 5/17/2023 and the early slate locking at 7:07 pm ET. The lineup picks will range from some elite players to mid-priced options and value plays. You can also read more DFS advice and lineup picks for other sports here. It's also essential to monitor injury news and today's MLB starting lineups. Now that we got all that out of the way, it's onto the picks!

Featured Promo: Get any DFS Premium Bundle for for 30% off using code NEW! Win more with expert advice from proven winners and exclusive DFS tools. Get instant access to RotoBaller's Lineup Optimizers, Research Stations, daily picks and VIP chat rooms across 10 sports! Go Premium, Win More!

 

DraftKings, FanDuel Pitchers - MLB DFS Lineup Picks

Spencer Strider, ATL vs. TEX ($12,000 DK, $11,500 FD)

Strider operates in a tier of his own these days, and his steep price tag reflects as much. He leads the majors with 79 strikeouts through eight starts, which includes a staggering 42.9% strikeout rate and 40.4% whiff rate. Strider has recorded a minimum of eight strikeouts in every outing this season and 10 or more in three of his last four appearances. He's not completely immune to surrendering offense, but with reliably dominant strikeout numbers, Strider's floor remains firm.

Deeper on Strider's dominance, he's yet to allow more than four earned runs or five hits in any start this season. Strider sports a .174 xBA, .280 xSLG, .244 xwOBA, and 2.47 xFIP. That all amounts to an outstanding 2.40 xERA. The only downside to Strider's game is that he typically does not work deep. Between high strikeout totals and a middling 8.2% walk rate contributing to ballooning pitch counts, Strider averages just under six innings pitched per start this season.

The matchup is admittedly far from ideal. Texas scores a blistering 6.2 runs per game, including a strong .767 OPS against right-handed pitching. Still, the Rangers strike out at an above-average 23.8% rate, and Spencer Strider is not like other right-handed pitchers. On some days, he's as close to a lock as it gets. Today, I'm hoping Strider's price tag and poor matchup keep his ownership in check.

J.P. France, HOU vs. CHC ($7,900 DK, $9,300 FD)

It feels strange to highlight a rookie making the third start of his career, especially on a slate with this many big-name studs, but in the spirit of salary relief -- J.P. France. France has dominated over his first two outings, surrendering one earned run and six total hits over 11 2/3 innings pitched. This builds off a dominant start to the campaign in Triple-A, where France posted a 2.33 ERA and 2.97 FIP over five appearances. Notably, France sported a 33.8% strikeout rate in the minors, suggesting there's a fantasy upside we're yet to uncover.

The primary reason (other than price) that France is looking good today is his matchup. Since opening the season as one of the league's hotter offenses, the Cubs' bats have cooled down considerably as of late. Outside of Christopher Morel's call-up, the rest of the lineup is slumping considerably.

Further, Cody Bellinger is day-to-day with a knee injury, while Nico Hoerner remains on the injured list until at least the end of the week. In total, the Cubs carry a weak .677 OPS against right-handed pitching since the beginning of May. That includes a .118 ISO, 88 wRC+, and 26% strikeout rate.

France carries some risk, but with both price and matchup working in his favor, I really like him as a tournament play.

Also consider: Gerrit Cole, Nathan Eovaldi, Chris Bassitt

Want more MLB DFS tools and content? Our MLB Premium package includes our daily DFS Cheat Sheets, Research Station, Optimizer, and access to our Premium Discord Chatrooms, where members can chat with our MLB analysts. Check out this recent big win from RotoBaller's Jon Anderson on DraftKings - join in on the winning!

 

DraftKings, FanDuel Infielders - MLB DFS Lineup Picks

Matt Chapman – 3B, TOR vs. Gerrit Cole ($5,000 DK, $3,500 FD)

Gerrit Cole is one of the best pitchers in baseball, but he's also no stranger to the long ball. In 2022, Cole surrendered 36 home runs, the second-highest total of any pitcher. After seemingly addressing the problem through the first month of the 2023 campaign, Cole has been taken deep four times over his last two appearances -- all against right-handed hitters.

Chapman is my pick to take Cole deep today. He only has five home runs for the season but leads the majors with 18 doubles, and his advanced stats suggest plenty of positive regression coming in the long ball department. Chapman ranks in the 98th percentile or better with each of his 95.2 mph average exit velocities, .627 xSLG, 65.7% hard-hit rate, .425 xwOBA, and 25.7% barrel rate. He's one of the most locked-in hitters in the league this season, and Chapman is worth spending up for at presumably low ownership today.

Justin Turner – 1B, BOS vs. Marco Gonzales ($3,400 DK, $2,900 FD)

Marco Gonzales' career-long struggles with right-handed hitters have carried over into 2023. He sports a .475 slugging percentage and .352 wOBA against righties, including four home runs. Fortunately for Gonzales, Boston's best bats are all left-handed hitters.

Among Red Sox righties, Turner looks like the best play. His price tag is cheap, and he's always been something of a southpaw specialist at the plate. Tuner brings a career .817 OPS and 123 wRC+ against left-handed pitching.

Owen Miller – 2B/3B, MIL vs. Matthew Liberatore ($2,400 DK, $2,600 FD)

Miller has supplanted Mike Brosseau as the Brewers' go-to leadoff hitter against left-handed pitching, and he's making the most of the opportunity. Miller has recorded a hit in nine consecutive games entering today, slashing .329/.350/.461 in total for the season. There isn't a ton of pop in Miller's bat, but he's hitting .357 against southpaw pitching and expects to hit atop the order for near-minimum pricing. He's an easy guy to roster.

Matthew Liberatore is making his 2023 debut on Wednesday. He's a regarded prospect in the Cardinals' system, but Liberatore struggled during his first taste of the majors last season. He accrued a 5.49 xERA across nine appearances, including a .615 slugging percentage against right-handed hitters.

 

DraftKings, FanDuel Outfielders - MLB DFS Lineup Picks

Julio Rodriguez – OF, SEA vs. Brayan Bello ($5,300 DK, $3,500 FD)

Brayan Bello has struggled this season, posting a 5.06 xERA through five outings. He's yet to make it through a start without surrendering a home run. Right-handed hitters have particularly plagued Bello, owning a .625 slugging percentage and .409 wOBA against him.

Julio Rodriguez hasn't posted the big numbers that were expected of his sophomore campaign, but the underlying numbers suggest positive regression on the way. He carries a .453 xSLG, 91.2 mph average exit velocity, 10.9% barrel rate, and 45.5% hard-hit rate. There's still plenty of pop in Rodriguez's bat, and his elite speed opens up numerous avenues for scoring fantasy points. This is a great matchup for Rodriguez to go off.

Luis Robert Jr. – OF, CWS vs. Peyton Battenfield ($3,800 DK, $3,600 FD)

Robert is quietly one of the hottest hitters in baseball right now. He's hit safely in 13 of his last 14 appearances, hitting seven home runs in that span, including four consecutive games with a long ball entering today. Robert has fully shaken off his sluggish start to the season and now sports an elite .531 xSLG, .366 xwOBA, and 14.7% barrel rate.

Peyton Battenfield will have his hands full with Robert's red-hot bat. He ranks in the bottom percentile among all pitchers with a 93.9 mph average exit velocity alongside similarly mediocre numbers like a 50% hard-hit rate, .356 xwOBA, .487 xSLG, and a 13.6% barrel rate.

Jake Bauers – OF, NYY vs. Chris Bassitt ($2,000 DK, $2,400 FD)

Bauers is about as confident a play as you can find for the minimum price. He's been slotted in as a leadoff hitter against right-handed pitching lately, translating into extra opportunities at the dish. Bauers has also delivered against right-handed pitching this season, slugging .545 with a .273 ISO.

Despite being on something of a hot stretch lately, Chris Bassitt continues to struggle against left-handed hitting. Lefties are slugging .500 against him with five home runs and a .374 wOBA.

 

DraftKings, FanDuel MLB DFS Stacks

Mariners vs. Brayan Bello

Brayan Bello's problems go much deeper than the 5.06 xERA highlighted above. Opposing batters carry a gaudy .477 xSLG against him, including a 91.1 mph average exit velocity, 52.1% hard-hit rate, .347 xwOBA, and .274 xBA. Bello is unlikely to keep Seattle quiet for long.

The Mariners haven't been the most consistent offense in 2023, but they still put up a respectable 4.5 runs per game. They carry a 104 wRC+ against right-handed pitching since the beginning of May, and slumping bats like Julio Rodriguez are due for positive regression. Seattle exploded for 10 runs on Monday, and with Bello on the mound, this is another great spot for them.

Favorite Plays: Julio Rodriguez, Jarred Kelenic, Eugenio Suarez, Cal Raleigh, Teoscar Hernandez

White Sox vs. Peyton Battenfield

Peyton Battenfield's struggles are touched on above. He ranks in the bottom percentile with a 93.9 mph average exit velocity alongside similarly bad numbers like a .487 xSLG, .265 xBA, .356 xwOBA, 50% hard-hit rate, and 13.6% barrel rate. Altogether, that adds up to a 5.36 xERA. In a slate stacked with strong pitchers, Battenfield is not among them.

The White Sox have not carried the scariest offense this season, but they are starting to come alive. Luis Robert Jr. is possibly the hottest hitter in baseball right now, Yoan Moncada finally returned, and it's only a matter of time until Tim Anderson starts producing. Aside from the favorable matchup, the best part of playing the White Sox is how cheap they are. Rostering and stacking Chicago hitters will be very accessible for those who want to.

Favorite Plays: Luis Robert Jr., Tim Anderson, Yoan Moncada, Gavin Sheets, Andrew Vaughn

Also Consider: Boston Red Sox, Tampa Bay Rays, Milwaukee Brewers



Download Our Free News & Alerts Mobile App

Like what you see? Download our updated fantasy baseball app for iPhone and Android with 24x7 player news, injury alerts, sleepers, prospects & more. All free!



MLB DFS News and Injury Alerts

More DFS Lineup Picks and Analysis




POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Articles & Tools
Import Your Leagues
Daily Stats & Leaders
All Pitcher Matchups
Compare Any Players
Compare Any Players
Rookies & Call-Ups
24x7 News and Alerts

REAL-TIME FANTASY NEWS

Griffin Conine

To Have Shoulder Surgery On Tuesday
Luke Keaschall

Twins Prospect Luke Keaschall Suffers Broken Forearm
Logan Gilbert

Leaves Friday's Start With Forearm Tightness

Vikings Select Tai Felton To Finish Day 2

Seahawks Select Quarterback Jalen Milroe With The 92nd Pick Overall

Browns Select Dillon Gabriel 94th Overall

Packers Pick Savion Williams At No. 87 overall

Steelers Snag Kaleb Johnson In Round 3

Broncos Select Wide Receiver Pat Bryant With The 74th Overall Pick

Texans Select Jaylin Noel With 79th Pick

Lions Select Wide Receiver Isaac TeSlaa With The 70th Overall Pick
Jack Leiter

To Start On Sunday

Patriots Add Wide Receiver Kyle Williams In Round 3

Browns Draft Harold Fannin Jr. With 67th Pick
Garrett Mitchell

Makes Early Exit
Luke Keaschall

Removed Early On Friday
Blake Snell

Likely Avoids Major Injury
Cole Ragans

Dealing With Mild Groin Strain

Broncos Add RJ Harvey To Backfield With 60th Pick

Raiders Select Jack Bech With 58th Pick

Chargers Add Wide Receiver Tre Harris In Round 2
Detroit Lions

Lions Acquire 57th Pick From Broncos

Seahawks Draft Elijah Arroyo 50th Overall
Carolina Panthers

Panthers Acquire 51st Pick From Broncos
Arizona Cardinals

Cardinals Snag Will Johnson At No. 47

Jets Add A Pass-Catcher With Mason Taylor At No. 42

Rams Select Terrance Ferguson With 46th Pick
Houston Texans

Texans Acquire 48th Pick From Raiders, Draft Aireontae Ersery

Saints Snag Tyler Shough At No. 40
Brenton Doyle

Out For Personal Reasons On Friday
Brandin Podziemski

Not On Injury Report For Game 3
Jimmy Butler III

Warriors Optimistic About Jimmy Butler III Playing Saturday
Jae'Sean Tate

To Remain Out Saturday
Jock Landale

Unavailable For Game 3
Terry Rozier

Out On Saturday
Jrue Holiday

Ruled Out For Friday Night's Game 3 Against Orlando
Kevin Love

To Miss Saturday's Game
Jaylen Brown

Available For Friday Night's Game 3 Against Magic
Gary Payton II

Iffy For Saturday's Action
Jayson Tatum

Officially Available On Friday For Game 3 Against Magic
Will Smith

Back From Injury On Friday
Luke Kennard

Questionable For Game 4 On Saturday
Darius Garland

Listed As Questionable For Game 3
Ja Morant

To Miss Game 4 On Saturday
Rui Hachimura

Available For Game 3 In Minnesota
Aaron Ekblad

Available To Return Saturday
Erik Swanson

Ryan Burr Progressing
Daulton Varsho

To Return On Tuesday At The Latest
Max Scherzer

Takes Positive Step On Friday
Aleksander Barkov

Questionable For Saturday
Gabriel Landeskog

Set For Larger Role In Game 4
Calvin Pickard

To Start Game 3 For Oilers
Randy Arozarena

Resting For First Time This Year
Jonas Siegenthaler

To Play Limited Minutes In Game 3
MLB

Red Sox-Guardians Game Postponed On Friday
Luke Hughes

Remains Out On Friday
MLB

Tigers-Orioles Postponed On Friday
Patrik Laine

A Game-Time Decision Friday
Yainer Diaz

Out On Friday Against Royals
Iván Herrera

Ivan Herrera Hopes To Start Rehab Assignment Next Week
Salvador Perez

Sitting Out For First Time This Season
Jaylen Brown

Questionable For Game 3 On Friday
Brendan Donovan

Back In Action On Friday
Jimmy Butler III

Could Miss Game 3 On Saturday
Coby Mayo

Getting On A Roll At Triple-A
Carlos Prates

Looks To Remain Undefeated In The UFC
Ian Machado Garry

Set For UFC Kansas City Main Event
Cade Cunningham

Collects Double-Double In Loss
Jalen Brunson

Drops 30 Points In Game 3
Karl-Anthony Towns

Leads All Scorers In Game 3 Victory
Zhang Mingyang

Scheduled For Co-Main Event
Anthony Smith

Set For His Final UFC Bout
David Onama

Set For Featherweight Bout
Giga Chikadze

Looks To Bounce Back
Abus Magomedov

Looks For His Third Consecutive Win
Michel Pereira

Returns To Action At UFC Kansas City
Nicolas Dalby

An Underdog At UFC Kansas City
Randy Brown

A Favorite At UFC Kansas City
Andre Muniz

Set To Open Up UFC Kansas City Main Card
Ikram Aliskerov

Looks To Get Back In The Win Column
Sergei Bobrovsky

Shuts Out Lightning In Game 2
Cam Fowler

Finishes Thursday's Win With Five Points
Robert Thomas

Posts Four Assists In Game 3 Win
Pavel Buchnevich

Celebrates Hat Trick During Four-Point Performance
Dylan DeMelo

Battling An Illness
Marcus Johansson

Exits Early Thursday
Aleksander Barkov

Hurt In Game 2
Jrue Holiday

Tagged As Questionable For Friday
Jayson Tatum

Likely Out Again On Friday
Anthony Cirelli

Good To Go Thursday
Andrei Vasilevskiy

Looks To Bounce Back In Game 2
Rasmus Ristolainen

To Miss Training Camp
Jonas Siegenthaler

Returns To Practice
Aliaksei Protas

Traveling With Capitals
Gabriel Vilardi

Still Out On Thursday
Max Pacioretty

Set To Join Maple Leafs Lineup For Game 3
Cam Davis

Looking For Better Fortunes At TPC Louisiana
Adam Svensson

Making Third Apperence At Zurich Classic
Max Greyserman

Aiming For Similar Success At TPC Louisiana
Lee Hodges

A High-Upside Player In New Orleans
PGA

Nico Echavarria Looks To Ride Off Of Elite Putting In New Orleans
Gary Woodland

A Player Worth Watching In New Orleans
Max McGreevy

Returns To The Zurich Classic Of New Orleans
Rasmus Hojgaard

In Search Of Consistency Ahead Of Zurich Classic
Sam Stevens

A Boom-Or-Bust Candidate In New Orleans
Nicolai Hojgaard

Looking To Turn Season Around At Zurich Classic
Christiaan Bezuidenhout

Looks To Sway A Hot Putter In Teams Favor At Zurich Classic
Akshay Bhatia

Looking To Bounce Back At TPC Louisiana
Carson Young

Looks To Turn Things Around At TPC Louisiana
Erik Van Rooyen

Looking For Momentum In Louisiana
Andrew Novak

Making Start At TPC Louisiana After Near Miss At Harbour Town
Ben Griffin

Making Third Career Start At Zurich Classic
Taylor Moore

Competing With A New Teammate In New Orleans
Wyndham Clark

Making Return To New Orleans
Kurt Kitayama

Teeing It Up Again In New Orleans
Collin Morikawa

Back At Zurich Classic For Fifth Time
Thomas Detry

Making Third Appearance At New Orleans Team Event
RANKINGS
C
1B
2B
3B
SS
OF
SP
RP

RANKINGS

QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF