
San Diego Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill had another productive offensive game in Monday's 7-3 win over the Brewers. Merrill went 3-for-5 with three singles and a stolen base. The 20-year-old has made an excellent first impression in the big leagues, slashing .356/.433/.441 with one home run, 12 runs scored, seven RBI, and three stolen bases in 67 plate appearances. He is currently rostered in just 59% of leagues and is worth a look in all leagues at this time.

Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Nick Castellanos turned in another disappointing game at the plate in Monday's 2-1 extra-innings win over the Rockies. Castellanos went 0-for-4 with a strikeout batting sixth. The 32-year-old has gotten off to a very slow start offensively, slashing just .177/.250/.177 with no home runs and five RBI in 68 plate appearances. However, fantasy managers should give him a bit of a leash given his career track record and strong 2023 season.

Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Aaron Nola turned in a great start but came away with a no-decision in Monday's 2-1 extra-inning win over the Rockies. Nola pitched 7 1/3 innings, allowing one run on four hits (including a solo home run) and a walk with nine strikeouts. The 30-year-old has now turned in three consecutive solid starts after a rough first start, bringing his record to 2-1 with a 3.47 ERA, a 7.33 K/9 rate, and a 3.47 BB/9 rate. He should have an excellent chance to extend his streak in his next scheduled start against the White Sox.


Los Angeles Angels outfielder Taylor Ward continued his hot offensive start in Monday's 7-3 win over the Rays. Ward went 2-for-5 with a single, a two-run home run, and two strikeouts. The 30-year-old now owns a .313/.333/.612 slash line with six HR, 13 runs scored, and an impressive 19 RBI in 69 plate appearances. He is rostered in 78% of leagues, so Ward could still be available in leagues where fantasy managers are looking for a hot bat.


Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout continued his power run in Monday's 7-3 win over the Rays. Trout went 2-for-5 with a single and a two-run home run. The 32-year-old has been every bit as good as fantasy managers were hoping for, slashing .290/.362/.710 with seven HR, 10 RBI, and two stolen bases in 69 plate appearances. It isn't surprising to see such great production from Trout, but it is encouraging nonetheless.
