Monday's Starting Pitcher Value Rankings
Here are theScore's pitcher value rankings for Monday, May 23 (all stats exclude Sunday's games):
Value Rankings
C | 1B/DH | 2B | SS | 3B | OF | SP
Top Options
| Name | Opponent | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Johnny Cueto (SF) | vs. SD | 8 |
| Clayton Kershaw (LAD) | vs. CIN | 7 |
| Nick Tropeano (LAA) | at TEX | 7 |
| Rich Hill (OAK) | at SEA | 7 |
| Drew Pomeranz (SD) | at SF | 7 |
Cueto has two complete-game victories against the Padres already, in which he's allowed a total of one run. He offers ace potential at a discount to Kershaw, who has allowed three runs over his last four starts, while striking out 48.
Typically solid, Tropeano usually pitches just under six innings while allowing two runs. He's coming off his longest start of the season (one earned run in 7 IP) and his teammates should provide ample run support.
Mid-Tier Targets
| Name | Opponent | Value |
|---|---|---|
| John Lackey (CHC) | at STL | 7 |
| Gio Gonzalez (WAS) | vs. NYM | 7 |
| Ian Kennedy (KC) | at MIN | 6 |
| Vince Velasquez (PHI) | at DET | 6 |
| Wei-Yin Chen (MIA) | vs. TB | 6 |
| Adam Wainwright (STL) | vs. CHC | 6 |
| Derek Holland (TEX) | vs. LAA | 6 |
| Mike Pelfrey (DET) | vs. PHI | 6 |
| Brandon Finnegan (CIN) | at LAD | 6 |
| Bartolo Colon (NYM) | at WAS | 5 |
| Taijuan Walker (SEA) | vs. OAK | 5 |
Gonzalez has largely pitched well and holds a 1.86 ERA, but generally doesn't exceed six innings and control is an ongoing concern.
Wainwright is slowly rounding into form, though the powerful Cubs represent a risky matchup.
Holland's extremely low salary and the fact that he's allowed just three earned runs over 11 innings against the Angels make him a worthy tournament flier, though he's extremely volatile. Two of his last three starts have resulted in negative fantasy points.
Nothing to See Here
| Name | Opponent | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Ricky Nolasco (MIN) | vs. KC | 3 |
| Matt Moore (TB) | at MIA | 3 |
Nolasco has given up at least four runs in each of his last five starts. There are better low-cost fliers out there.