Thursday's Starting Pitcher Value Rankings

Here are theScore's starting pitcher value rankings for Thursday, May 19 (all stats exclude Wednesday's games):

Value Rankings
C | 1B/DH | 2B | SS | 3B | OF | SP

Top Options

Although it can be tough for DFS owners to stomach Sale's astronomical DFS price tag, he's the hottest pitcher in the AL. The elite southpaw carries a 1.67 ERA and a tremendous 0.76 WHIP into Thursday night's tilt. Oh, and he's also undefeated in 2016, sporting an 8-0 record.

Strasburg can be used for cash-game and tournament play with a stellar 10.64 K/9. What's even more impressive is his 0.65 HR/9, the lowest it has been throughout his career. He's a safe play in all formats and comes at a much cheaper cost than Sale.

It should be another pitching duel in the Big Apple Thursday night, with both Harvey and Strasburg toeing the rubber for their respective teams. Harvey has limited lefties to a .217 career batting average. With the Nationals top of the order hitters mostly left-handed, Harvey is a rather intriguing contrarian option.

Mid-Tier Targets

Estrada was roughed up against the Rangers in his most recent start, giving up four earned runs on five hits through six innings pitched. Nevertheless, his modest price point and 2.89 ERA on the season against a lackluster Twins offense makes him a superb value play.

Gray, on the other hand, is sporting a solid 1.15 WHIP, but his price point is low due to his inflated 4.71 ERA. Away from Coors Field, he sports a terrific 0.62 WHIP and 1.39 ERA. Those road splits and low-cost are definitely worth a flier.

Last time Samardzija and the Giants battled the Padres, San Diego pelted him for five earned runs in just over five innings pitched. His cost is far too much to take a chance on, especially in San Diego this time around. Limit him to just GPPs.

Though Adleman has only started three games, he's 1-1 and sports an ERA of 3.38. He crashed back down to earth during his most recent start, giving up three earned runs on eight hits. He allowed a total of three runs in the two games prior, which adds value to his already low price tag.

Nothing to See Here

Don't be fooled by the ERA's of Wilson and Foltynewicz, both have spent time in their respective bullpens this season. The rest of the aforementioned pitchers have daunting matchups and should be afterthoughts.