The Toronto Blue Jays suffered another painful loss, falling 5-4 to the Los Angeles Angels. This defeat marked their fourth consecutive loss, with three games featuring a blown save. Jose Berrios and Yusei Kikuchi engaged in a six-inning battle, with each allowing just one run. The Jays struck first, scoring four runs in the seventh before Jeff Hoffman, who was tasked with closing the game, faltered in the ninth, giving up a game-ending double to Jorge Soler.

In addition to the loss, the Jays might have lost their second baseman, Andres Gimenez, due to a right quadriceps strain. Meanwhile, the strategy to intentionally walk Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in critical moments proved successful again, as his replacement, Anthony Santander, failed to capitalize on the scoring opportunity. Berrios, despite pitching well, faced challenges but benefited from timely defense, including a crucial caught stealing that ended a threat early in the game.

As baseball returns to a full slate of games, today’s focus centers on two main pitching options: Hunter Greene and Jose Berrios. Greene, priced at $9,800, showcases a breakout season with consistent performances, while Berrios offers a solid floor given his ability to pitch deep into games, despite a higher price tag of $8,500 and a less appealing matchup against the Angels, who lead in strikeouts.

The $7,000 range reveals intriguing picks like Cristopher Sanchez, whose impressive K percentage makes him a strong candidate, although he may battle hitter-friendly conditions at George Steinbrenner Field. Conversely, Grant Holmes poses a risk-reward scenario with strikeout potential.

Hitting options include Riley Greene and Kerry Carpenter from the Rockies-Tigers matchup, which promises a high-scoring affair. George Springer also emerges as a key player against Yusei Kikuchi, who struggles with home runs. Value players like Ryan Mountcastle, and Vinnie Pasquantino round up a list of cost-effective options.

For stacking strategies, consider the Twins against the struggling Charlie Morton, and the Rockies against Jackson Jobe, a prospect with potential flaws that could be exploited in Coors Field. As we analyze the lineup, utilize our DraftKings MLB Lineup Optimizer for tailored insights to craft winning lineups.

The current landscape of Major League Baseball sees three shortstops commanding salaries over $30 million. Leading the pack is Carlos Correa of the Minnesota Twins, who earns a staggering $37.3 million for the season. Closely trailing him is Corey Seager from the Texas Rangers at $32.5 million, followed by Francisco Lindor of the New York Mets at $32.47 million. Lindor's contract boasts the highest average annual value at $34.1 million, though his current earnings rank him third. Other notable shortstops include Dansby Swanson, Trea Turner, and Xander Bogaerts, each making a substantial impact both on their teams and financially.

Correa's lucrative six-year, $200 million contract with the Twins followed a failed agreement with the Mets due to injury concerns, solidifying his position as the highest-paid shortstop. With such high earnings, these players not only lead their teams on the field but also set a benchmark for future contracts in an increasingly competitive market.

The New York Mets narrowly fell to the St. Louis Cardinals 6-5 in a doubleheader opener, hampered by shaky pitching from Blake Tidwell in his MLB debut, who allowed six runs in 3.2 innings. The Mets initially led after Brandon Nimmo's RBI double, but the Cardinals rallied to score five unanswered runs, fueled by Wilson Contreras' home run and three RBIs from Francisco Lindor. Jesse Winker contributed to the Mets’ offense with a sacrifice fly before leaving the game due to oblique discomfort, raising concerns about his status moving forward.

With Winker potentially sidelined, there’s speculation that the Mets might summon Brett Baty back to the majors to fill the gap, which could lead to an interesting reshuffle in their lineup. Mets fans are eager for Baty's return, believing he can significantly boost the offense.

As MLB action heats up on May 2, several intriguing player prop bets emerge amid a full slate of games. Expert insights highlight three key matchups worth considering for bettors.

Grant Holmes of the Atlanta Braves is projected to struggle with his command against the powerful Los Angeles Dodgers lineup. He's exhibited a significant walk rate early this season, making the over on 2.5 walks (+110) an appealing wager.

Over in the Rockies vs. Giants game, Antonio Senzatela is expected to face challenges as the Giants aim to improve their hitting. The line of 5.5 hits allowed (-110) for Senzatela could be enticing given his track record this season.

Lastly, Quinn Priester for the Milwaukee Brewers is under scrutiny as he takes on a formidable Chicago Cubs offense. With his high earned run average and command issues, taking the over on 2.5 earned runs allowed (-120) presents a valuable betting opportunity.