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.

Spencer Torkelson, the former No. 1 overall pick for the Detroit Tigers, is finally beginning to realize his potential in his fourth MLB season. Currently slashing .237/.346/.498 with 16 home runs and 47 RBIs over 68 games, Torkelson has established himself as a core player in a first-place lineup. His OPS against left-handed pitching is impressive at 1.051, making him a strong candidate for home run bets as he faces Wade Miley of the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday. His improved discipline has reduced his chase rate to 20.6%, ranking him in the 90th percentile among MLB hitters, a crucial factor in his recent success.

With Torkelson's recent form and favorable splits against Miley, sportsbooks have set his odds at +390 for a home run, which is notable considering that 168 of the 196 homers Miley has allowed were to right-handed batters. Torkelson, along with other players like Brent Rooker and Brandon Lowe, is featured in various home run prop bets this Sunday. With a proven projection model backing these picks, there’s potential for significant value in betting this weekend.

Mickey Moniak, the Los Angeles Angels outfielder, has triumphed in salary arbitration, securing a raise to $2 million, surpassing the team's offer of $1.5 million. This marks Moniak's first eligibility for arbitration after a season where he batted .219, hitting 14 home runs and achieving a career-high of 49 RBIs. The ruling was made by Melinda Gordon, Samantha Tower, and John Woods after they evaluated the arguments presented a day prior.

In related arbitration news, right-hander Jovan Oviedo lost his case with the Pittsburgh Pirates, resulting in an $850,000 salary instead of his requested $1.15 million. The future of another Pirates pitcher, Dennis Santana, remains undecided as he seeks $2.1 million against an offer of $1.4 million. A total of eight players are still awaiting decisions, including Angels first baseman/second baseman Luis Rengifo, who has sought $5.95 million with a counteroffer at $5.8 million.