MacKenzie Gore DVOA, Advanced Stats, & Fantasy Rankings

Washington Nationals starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore allowed just two runs on four hits in six solid innings in Denver, striking out 13 in a dominant performance. He left the game with a commanding 12-2 lead after striking out his 13th batter to end the sixth inning, but the Nationals' bullpen almost let the game get away before holding on for the 12-11 win. Gore improved to 2-2 with the win and has a 3.41 ERA, 2.30 FIP, and 1.21 WHIP in his five starts. He has an impressive 13.97 K/9 rate, which is the highest mark of qualified pitchers so far this season. Gore had no trouble with the strikeout-prone Rockies and will draw the Orioles at home in his next outing, which is currently scheduled for Thursday. Even in that tougher matchup, Gore is a must-start in all formats after his strong start so far.

Washington Nationals starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore was fantastic on the mound during Thursday's season opener against the Philadelphia Phillies. Gore recorded a career-high 13 strikeouts over six shutout innings in a no-decision. Gore only allowed one hit during his time on the mound as he looked nearly flawless out there. Sadly for Gore, the Nats bullpen was unable to hold the lead for him. Despite that, Gore puts his name in the history books with his franchise-record 13 punchouts. The 26-year-old will certainly be a popular waiver wire pickup after that performance. He'll look to keep it going next week against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Washington Nationals manager Dave Martinez announced that left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore will start on Opening Day as the Nationals play host to the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday, March 27. Gore, a former first-round pick by the San Diego Padres in 2017, will be entering his third season with the Nationals and look to start the season on a high note. During the 2024 season, Gore was 10-12 with a 3.90 ERA, 3.53 FIP, and a 10.8 K/9. Gore has been in the big leagues since 2022, and we have continued to see him improve year over year. At NFBC, Gore's ADP is 205 overall, aligning with RotoBaller's current overall rankings of 207 for Gore. Fantasy managers looking for a young arm with upside will want to target him in their upcoming drafts.