Today's MLB slate presents a range of strikeout options as we analyze pitchers and their matchups. Zack Wheeler, who has excelled with a 32.9% strikeout rate against a Houston lineup that ranks 10th in strikeouts, stands out. Meanwhile, MacKenzie Gore faces the San Diego Padres, another tough opponent, but boasts a 32.3% K rate. Notably, Jacob deGrom, with a 25.7% strikeout rate, is up against the Baltimore Orioles, who rank 27th. A three-leg strikeout parlay featuring Jacob Misiorowski, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Jacob deGrom is suggested at +160 odds.

Analyzing the matchups further highlights that while high-strikeout pitchers like Wheeler and Gore are appealing, targeting weaker offenses could yield better results. The betting strategy emphasizes smart selections based on each pitcher's recent performance and their opponents' strikeout tendencies.

Chase Burns made a remarkable MLB debut on Tuesday night as a pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, facing the New York Yankees. Although he didn’t secure a win, he made history by striking out the first five batters he faced, including three former MVPs. Burns opened with an impressive strikeout of Trent Grisham and followed it with strikeouts of Ben Rice and Aaron Judge, showcasing a fastball hitting up to 100 mph. By the end of the fourth inning, Burns had recorded eight strikeouts, marking a notable start for the Reds’ top prospect.

Despite allowing three earned runs on six hits, his performance was praised for its potential and skill. Burns exhibited a strong pitching arsenal with a mix of fastballs, sliders, and changeups, maintaining control throughout the game. As the Reds look to build their future around such talent, fans and fantasy players alike will be eager to see how Burns develops in the MLB.

Yordan Alvarez, the Houston Astros' star slugger, is making strides in his recovery from a right hand fracture, as he swung a bat on Sunday for the first time since early May. Manager Joe Espada shared that Alvarez felt good while hitting and will continue to progress with additional batting sessions. However, the team has not decided if he will embark on a minor league rehab assignment prior to his activation.

In other injury news, right-hander Lance McCullers Jr. successfully threw off a mound, while outfielder Zach Dezenzo remains sidelined. Several other players, including Chas McCormick, Jacob Melton, and Brendan Rodgers, are also working through hitting and throwing progressions. As the season progresses, the health of these players will be crucial for the Astros' playoff aspirations.

Week 13 of the 2025 fantasy baseball season is here, featuring a robust lineup of two-start pitchers that can significantly impact your roster. With 32 pitchers making multiple starts, strategic streaming becomes essential for fantasy managers looking to maximize their weekly output. Among the pitchers rostered under 50%, Chad Patrick stands out with a solid 3.50 ERA and favorable matchups against weak offenses like the Pirates and Rockies. Max Scherzer returns to the mound for the Toronto Blue Jays and though he has shown some decline, he still possesses the potential to deliver solid stats. However, as always, caution is advised, especially with pitchers like Taj Bradley, who has displayed inconsistency throughout the season.

Managers should be mindful of riskier options when considering pitchers like Matthew Liberatore and Walker Buehler, both facing tough lineups this week. The fantasy landscape is dynamic, so staying updated on player performance and matchups will be crucial. Whether you’re looking to bolster your pitching staff through waivers or making tough start/sit decisions, this week’s analysis offers insights to make informed choices.

The Cincinnati Reds faced a heartbreaking defeat against the St. Louis Cardinals, losing 6-5 in 11 innings. Elly De La Cruz's dramatic performance included a go-ahead home run, but the Reds' bullpen faltered, allowing the Cardinals to rally back from a 5-2 deficit. A critical moment came when the Reds failed to score in the 10th and 11th innings, despite having opportunities with runners in scoring position. This game marked the Reds' first series loss in over two weeks and dropped their record to 1-6 in extra-inning games this season.