Prepare for an exciting nine-game MLB DFS slate today! Key players to consider include Robbie Ray, who boasts a 1.64 ERA over his last five starts, and Logan Henderson, with an impressive 1.69 ERA in his early career. The Boston Red Sox face Dean Kremer today, making Rafael Devers and Nick Sogard strong picks, as both excel against fastball pitchers. Julio Rodriguez and Cal Raleigh also shine in their matchups, showcasing impressive power numbers recently.

Build your lineups with confidence by prioritizing these players, and don't overlook the potential stacks involving the Red Sox and Mariners. Monitor injury news closely, and utilize optimization tools for maximum efficiency. Good luck!

The Boston Red Sox have placed first baseman Romy Gonzalez on the 10-day injured list due to a left quadriceps contusion, effective retroactively from May 8. In a corresponding move, they have recalled second baseman Nick Sogard from Triple-A Worcester, intending to split time between him and Abraham Toro. This decision comes after Gonzalez's underwhelming recovery, as Red Sox manager Alex Cora indicated it was a precautionary measure to ensure Gonzalez returns to form.

Gonzalez had been performing well, maintaining a .308 batting average in 17 games. However, his absence will provide an opportunity for Sogard, who is making his season debut after struggling in the minors. The Red Sox are currently exploring alternatives for the first base position, especially following Rafael Devers’ refusal to play there, prompting internal discussions within the organization.

The Boston Red Sox have promoted Nick Sogard from Triple-A to replace Alex Bregman, who is on paternity leave for the birth of his second child. Sogard will likely play in the series finale against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday. With Rafael Devers unavailable for third base, Sogard's versatility as a utility player comes in handy, as he has experience in multiple infield positions.

Bregman is expected to return for the homestand against the Chicago White Sox on Friday. Sogard had a solid stint with the Red Sox last season but has struggled at the plate in the past month with the WooSox. However, manager Alex Cora may favor Sogard's switch-hitting ability against right-handed pitcher Zack Littell.

Spencer Strider made a triumphant return to the mound for the Atlanta Braves, showcasing his talent in a pre-season game against the Boston Red Sox. Pitching for 2 2/3 innings, Strider struck out an impressive six batters while not allowing a single baserunner. This marks his first appearance since undergoing Tommy John surgery. Throughout the outing, Strider's dominant performance reminded everyone of his potential; he previously led the league with 281 strikeouts in 2023 and finished the season with a 20-5 record.

In contrast, the Red Sox's David Hamilton and Nick Sogard were the only two players to avoid strikeouts against Strider, highlighting the effectiveness of his pitching. With a career record of 32-10 and a 3.47 ERA, Strider's return is not just a personal victory but also a significant boost for the Braves as they approach the new MLB season.

Boston Red Sox fans who received a Ceddanne Rafaela jersey this Christmas may need to consider a swap, as the rookie has officially changed his jersey number. Rafaela, along with teammates David Hamilton and Nick Sogard, made the announcement via the team's transaction log. After debuting in August 2023 while wearing No. 43, Rafaela will now don the iconic No. 3 moving forward.

Rafaela's transition to No. 3 comes after he signed a lucrative eight-year, $50 million contract extension with the Red Sox in April, which includes a $16 million team option for 2032. His rookie season saw him achieve a batting average of .246 with a .664 OPS, hitting 15 home runs, driving in 75 runs, stealing 19 bases, and posting a 2.8 WAR across 152 games. Notably, he became the first rookie in MLB's modern era to play 87 games in center field and 82 at shortstop.

The previous holder of No. 3, Reese McGuire, was designated for assignment in July 2024, allowing Rafaela to take over the number. Other past players who wore No. 3 for the Red Sox include Jonathan Araúz, José Peraza, Sandy León, and Hall of Famer Jimmie Foxx. Meanwhile, Hamilton and Sogard are also changing their numbers, with Hamilton moving from No. 70 to No. 17 and Sogard from No. 75 to No. 20.