Wednesday's MLB slate features 11 games, showcasing a mix of top-tier pitchers and some intriguing matchups. Chris Sale stands out with a robust 31.7% strikeout rate despite a challenging matchup against the Mets. Other notable pitchers include Sonny Gray, who seeks redemption against the White Sox, and Kris Bubic, facing the Rangers. Jacob Misiorowski's promising debut is tempered by a tough matchup against the Cubs, while Eduardo Rodriguez's strikeout potential is offset by a recent home run issue.

Offensively, the Yankees' hitters are back on the radar against Jack Kochanowicz, who has struggled recently. Cincinnati's lineup looks potent against Bailey Ober, who is dealing with mechanical issues. Players like Trevor Rogers and Yandy Diaz are highlighted as potential breakout candidates, particularly in favorable matchups. Overall, both pitching and hitting strategies will be crucial for fantasy enthusiasts looking to capitalize on today's slate.

The Florida Panthers clinched their second Stanley Cup on Tuesday, bringing excitement to the sports world. The upcoming days offer a packed schedule for sports fans with a 15-game MLB slate and a WNBA matchup on Wednesday, June 18. For bettors, the bet365 sportsbook presents an enticing offer for newcomers, providing $150 in bonus bets with a minimum $5 wager, enabling fans to easily engage in the action.

MLB matchups feature critical games like the Minnesota Twins facing off against the Cincinnati Reds, where the Reds, moneyline favorites, have momentum on their side after a recent win. The New York Yankees are also in action against the Los Angeles Angels, aiming to break their recent scoring slump. Meanwhile, the WNBA highlights the Connecticut Sun's matchup with the Phoenix Mercury, as both teams seek to rise in the standings.

On June 18, the Minnesota Twins (36-36) are set to face off against the Cincinnati Reds (38-35) as they aim to break a five-game losing streak. Bailey Ober will start for the Twins against Nick Lodolo from the Reds. In their previous encounter, the Reds clinched a 6-5 victory, with standout performances from Will Benson and Jake Fraley contributing four runs collectively. The Reds are riding a three-game winning streak, heightening the stakes for the Twins.

The betting odds for the matchup indicate a tight contest, with the Twins at -108 on the moneyline and the Reds at -111. The run line favors the Reds at 1.5, while the total runs are set at 9.0. Ober, who holds a 4-3 record with a 4.40 ERA, hopes to rebound after a disappointing outing against Texas, where he allowed seven earned runs. Conversely, Lodolo comes in with a 4-5 record and a 3.76 ERA, having struggled in his last start against Cleveland.

Today's MLB DFS slate features a plethora of standout players and potential value picks. Chris Sale and Framber Valdez headline the pitching options, both enjoying favorable matchups. Sale, with a remarkable 31.3% K-rate against righties, faces a strikeout-prone Mets lineup, while Valdez's groundball prowess is a boon against the Athletics.

In the hitter's realm, Shohei Ohtani is a must-start against Stephen Kolek, especially considering his elite xwOBA and ISO against righties. Elly De La Cruz, with impressive power-speed upside, also has a significant chance to shine. Don't overlook the weather risks in Midwest matchups, as rain could impact lineups in cities like Cincinnati and St. Louis.

With an 11-game slate packed with opportunities, fantasy players need to stay updated on player news and lineups to optimize their daily fantasy strategies effectively.

The Cincinnati Reds have placed right-handed reliever Graham Ashcraft on the 15-day injured list due to a right groin strain. His absence could impact the team's bullpen as Ashcraft has proven to be one of their most reliable options, recording a 4.19 ERA with 38 strikeouts in 34.1 innings across 19 appearances this season.

To fill his spot, the Reds have recalled rookie Luis Mey from Triple-A Louisville. Mey has a solid track record in the minors, boasting a 4.15 ERA with 14 strikeouts in 13 innings. With Cincinnati's recent surge, winning seven of their last ten games and positioning themselves closely in the wild card race, Ashcraft's injury comes at a critical juncture for the team.