The Chicago Cubs face a significant challenge this season as their starting rotation struggles. They anticipate the return of Shota Imanaga, which should ease some concerns. However, the absence of Justin Steele raises questions about the team's championship potential. President Jed Hoyer has actively sought to bolster the rotation, with MLB insider Mark Feinsand suggesting they consider Los Angeles Angels' Tyler Anderson as a mid-rotation option. Anderson started the season with a respectable ERA but faltered in June, creating uncertainty about his value. Despite this, his past performances highlight a potential upside that could benefit the Cubs as they push for a postseason spot.

Framber Valdez is scheduled to start against the Oakland Athletics, a matchup he has historically excelled in, which should be a consideration for MLB DFS players crafting their lineups. With a career ERA of 2.64 against the A's and having allowed only one earned run in 13.1 innings last season, Valdez is a viable option for starting pitcher on platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings. While he won't be a budget pick, his strong past performance against Oakland makes him a formidable choice for daily fantasy lineups.

In addition to Valdez, Astros second baseman/outfielder Jose Altuve is also highly recommended, especially given his history against Athletics starter Luis Severino, with a batting average of .275 and a home run in 40 at-bats against him. Severino's struggles this June, marked by a 6.63 ERA, further enhance Altuve's appeal as a solid value pick for DFS players. Similarly, Carlos Correa of the Twins presents a favorable matchup against left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo, having hit .269 with a significantly elevated OPS against lefties this season. As insights from expert Mike McClure suggest, these players could be key to a successful DFS strategy on June 18.

The Los Angeles Angels have made a statement by shutting out the New York Yankees in back-to-back games at Yankee Stadium, demonstrating the importance of strong pitching in baseball. Jose Soriano secured a 1-0 victory on Monday with seven scoreless innings, followed by Kyle Hendricks's six innings of shutout baseball on Tuesday, leading to a 4-0 win. Hendricks struck out nine while allowing just four hits and one walk, showcasing a dominant performance.

Despite being out-hit on Monday, the Angels managed to control the game, with key contributions from players like Luis Rengifo, who opened the scoring with an RBI single, and Taylor Ward, who followed with a two-run single. This performance places the Angels just two games under .500 and in the hunt for a Wild Card spot, while the Yankees rue their missed opportunities against a fierce opponent.

The New York Mets have placed Kodai Senga on the 15-day injured list following a right hamstring strain sustained while covering first base. The severity of the injury is still unclear as the team awaits MRI results, indicating a cautious approach to his recovery. In his absence, Paul Blackburn will fill his rotation spot, having previously excelled in a start against the Dodgers. Max Kranick has been called up from Triple-A to bolster the roster.

Last season, Senga missed significant time due to shoulder and calf injuries, which complicated his rehab process. Mets president David Stearns expressed confidence in the team's improved communication and medical strategies this year, believing they can effectively manage Senga's recovery. The Mets are optimistic about their depth, with Frankie Montas and Sean Manaea nearing returns, suggesting they can withstand Senga's absence while maintaining their solid pitching performance.

This week's fantasy baseball waiver wire targets spotlight players emerging from the injured list and a promising rookie pitcher. Jacob Misiorowski, the Milwaukee Brewers' young starter, made an impressive debut with five no-hit innings and boasts strong Triple-A numbers. Jack Leiter from the Texas Rangers remains a streaming option despite his mediocre stats. Atlanta Braves' Grant Holmes is another solid two-start pitcher to consider. San Francisco Giants' Randy Rodriguez is a must-add reliever with remarkable strikeout rates. Alejandro Kirk of the Toronto Blue Jays is surging offensively, while Cincinnati Reds' Christian Encarnacion-Strand returns from injury ready to impact the first base position.

Meanwhile, keep an eye on Nick Kurtz of the Athletics, who has shown flashes of potential and recently returned from injury. Chicago White Sox's Chase Meidroth offers speed, while Evan Carter's hot streak since returning from the IL makes him worth the gamble for fantasy managers looking for an outfield boost.