Brown flirted with a masterful effort, working into the seventh and delivering a career-high pitch count (108). He allowed two runs on 10 Braves hits, earning his 20th quality start and anchoring Houston’s win with efficient usage of his fastball and sinker.

Brown owns a 11-7 record with a 2.25 ERA, blending strike presence with excellent control. In this matchup against Elder, his ability to limit hard contact and navigate the Braves’ lineup will be pivotal for Houston’s chances to push their lead in the late-season stretch.

Brown teams with Valdez to anchor Houston's rotation; his development and workload are central to late-season success. Fantasy managers monitor Brown's innings, strikeout rate, and potential opportunistic starts as he deepens his role in the playoff push.

Brown slots into the core trio with Valdez and Javier, remaining a high-upside fantasy piece. His continued development is crucial as Houston navigates Garcia’s IL, and his strikeout upside keeps him in the conversation for mixed leagues and streaming spots.

Brown's breakout season is highlighted by 28 starts and 167 innings with 190 strikeouts and a 1.01 WHIP, anchored by velocity gains and a broadened repertoire (including knuckle-curve and improved sinker). The host argues Brown can anchor a 2026 rotation and potentially emerge as a number-one SP in keeper formats, given his age and the trajectory of his gains.