FREE 04/09 MLB Cheat Sheet: Top DFS Plays

Tonight’s five-game MLB DFS slate offers a mix of intriguing pitching matchups and high-scoring potential, headlined by the Brewers-Rockies game at Coors Field with a slate-high total of 10.5 runs. Coors remains the premier hitting environment, and with Tyler Alexander facing Antonio Senzatela, bats from both sides are in play. Elsewhere, the Blue Jays-Red Sox game in Boston (8.5 total) could see some offensive upside with winds blowing out at 8 MPH and clear, chilly conditions expected.

Pitching is highlighted by Kevin Gausman against Boston and Joe Ryan taking on Kansas City in a game with a slate-low total of 7.5 runs. Both offer strong strikeout upside, though Ryan may benefit from the Royals’ struggling offense and pitcher-friendly conditions with winds blowing left to right at 10 MPH. Meanwhile, the Phillies-Braves matchup (8.5 total) offers mid-tier pitching options but could lean more toward offense given Atlanta’s firepower at home. With clear skies across all games, weather won’t be much of a factor tonight aside from minor wind considerations in KC and Denver.

Top Stacks

ATL 5-Man ($21,600)

Michael Harris II, Ozzie Albies, Marcell Ozuna, Matt Olson, Austin Riley

The ATL 5-man stack projects for 43.9 points with a solid value of 2.03 pts/$1000, making it a strong option relative to its $21,600 salary. The offensive environment is favorable, as the game total sits at 8.5 runs, and weather conditions in Atlanta are ideal: clear skies, 66°F, and minimal wind (7 MPH right to left). This stack benefits from elite lineup correlation, featuring hitters positioned 1 through 5 in the batting order, maximizing opportunities for run creation and RBI potential. Key power bats like Matt Olson and Austin Riley anchor the middle of the order, while Michael Harris II offers speed and on-base upside leading off. Ownership is moderately high at 17.4%, slightly exceeding its optimal lineup rate of 16.3%, but still reasonable for GPP consideration given the stack’s ceiling. Overall, this stack combines strong projection with cohesive lineup construction in a neutral-to-favorable hitting environment.

MIL 5-Man ($26,600)

Brice Turang, Jackson Chourio, Christian Yelich, William Contreras, Sal Frelick

The MIL 5-man stack projects for 49.5 points with a solid value of 1.86 pts/$1000, making it a viable option in MLB DFS contests. The offensive environment is highly favorable, as the game total sits at 10.5 in Coors Field, the most hitter-friendly park in baseball, with mild weather (69°F) and no precipitation concerns, though the 13 MPH wind blowing in slightly tempers power upside. This stack benefits from elite lineup correlation, as all five hitters are projected to bat consecutively (1-5), maximizing RBI and run-scoring potential. Christian Yelich and William Contreras anchor the group with strong on-base and power profiles, while Jackson Chourio and Sal Frelick provide upside at reduced ownership relative to their positions in the order. However, with an average ownership of 23.3% and an optimal rate of just 15.3%, this stack carries some risk of being over-owned compared to its probability of hitting an optimal ceiling outcome. Overall, it’s a high-upside stack suited for tournaments but may require differentiation elsewhere in lineups to offset its popularity.

COL 5-Man ($21,800)

Brenton Doyle, Ezequiel Tovar, Ryan McMahon, Hunter Goodman, Kris Bryant

The COL 5-man stack projects for 41.9 points at a value of 1.92 pts/$1000, making it a moderately efficient option relative to its $21,800 salary. The game total of 10.5 and favorable hitting environment at Coors Field, coupled with warm weather (69°F) and no precipitation risk, enhance the offensive upside. This lineup benefits from strong batting order correlation, as all five players are positioned consecutively (1-5), maximizing opportunities for run production and RBI stacking. However, the stack’s average ownership of 13.6% exceeds its optimal rate of 11.8%, indicating potential overexposure in tournaments relative to its probability of success. While the wind blowing in at 13 MPH slightly dampens power potential, Coors Field’s altitude still favors hitters overall. This stack is viable but may carry less leverage in GPPs due to elevated ownership relative to optimal rates.

SP Plays

Top Play: Ryan Pepiot ($7,900)

Ryan Pepiot ($7,900) offers intriguing value in tonight’s matchup against the Angels. His 2.45 ERA through two starts this season highlights his consistency, and while his strikeout numbers have been modest (11 K in 11 IP), he has shown the ability to miss bats with an eight-strikeout performance on Opening Day. The Angels come into this game with a lineup that can be strikeout-prone, particularly against right-handed pitching, making this a solid spot for Pepiot to deliver on his 16.7 DK-point projection. At $7,900, his 2.12x value rating is appealing for those seeking mid-range pitching options with upside.

However, Pepiot’s projected 40.2% ownership places him firmly in chalk territory. While he appears in nearly 30% of optimal lineups, the high ownership does reduce his appeal in tournaments where differentiation is key. That said, the combination of a pitcher-friendly home park and a manageable Angels offense makes him a viable option even as chalk. If you’re comfortable eating some ownership in GPPs or need a reliable SP2 in cash games, Pepiot is worth strong consideration at this salary.

Honorable Mentions

• Grant Holmes ($6,500)
• Joe Ryan ($9,500)
• Seth Lugo ($8,100)

C Plays

Top Play: Danny Jansen ($3,200)

Danny Jansen ($3,200) presents an intriguing value option at catcher tonight against the Angels. Slotted into the fifth spot in the Tampa Bay lineup, Jansen should see ample RBI opportunities in a favorable matchup. While his recent production has been underwhelming, his 17.3% optimal lineup rate highlights his potential to deliver solid fantasy returns at this price point. Facing left-handed pitching is a plus for Jansen, as he’s historically shown more power against southpaws, and the Angels’ bullpen doesn’t pose much of a threat if they get involved early.

At 9.4% projected ownership, Jansen’s popularity is right around the field average, making him a neutral play in terms of leverage. His affordable salary allows you to spend up elsewhere while still getting exposure to a player with strong lineup placement and decent power upside. He’s best suited for tournaments where his combination of value and moderate ownership can differentiate your roster without sacrificing too much ceiling.

Honorable Mentions

• William Contreras ($5,200)
• Hunter Goodman ($3,900)
• Sean Murphy ($3,400)

1B Plays

Top Play: Matt Olson ($4,700)

Matt Olson ($4,700) is an intriguing option at first base tonight against the Phillies. Batting cleanup for a potent Braves offense, Olson brings elite power upside to the table, as evidenced by his early-season home run and three doubles in just 34 plate appearances. While he’s off to a slow start overall with a .222 average, his patient approach (seven walks) and RBI opportunities in the heart of this lineup make him a strong play in tournaments. Facing a right-hander, Olson’s left-handed power becomes even more appealing, especially in a game environment where Atlanta has solid run-scoring potential.

At 12.6% projected ownership, Olson won’t fly under the radar but also isn’t overwhelming chalk. His 16.1% optimal lineup rate reflects strong value at this salary, and his ability to generate both power and run production makes him worth targeting in GPPs. With the Braves’ offense firing on all cylinders early this season, Olson’s combination of power potential and favorable lineup spot offers an excellent mix of floor and ceiling at first base.

Honorable Mentions

• Yandy Diaz ($4,100)
• Bryce Harper ($5,100)
• Michael Toglia ($4,300)

2B Plays

Top Play: Brice Turang ($5,600)

Brice Turang finds himself in a prime spot tonight at Coors Field, the most hitter-friendly park in baseball. Leading off for the Brewers, Turang is positioned to maximize his plate appearances and take full advantage of the elevated run environment. The left-handed batter has been red-hot to start the season, riding a 10-game hit streak while slashing .325 with two homers, six RBI, 10 runs scored, and two stolen bases. Facing a Rockies pitching staff that struggles to contain lefty hitters in this altitude only adds to his appeal. His $5,600 salary is steep, but his combination of speed and power upside makes him worth considering as part of Milwaukee stacks or as a standalone option.

At 22.7% projected ownership, Turang will be one of the chalkier plays on the slate. While that may deter some tournament players seeking leverage, his strong projection (9.72 DK points) and presence in over 13% of optimal lineups suggest he’s more than capable of delivering value despite the popularity. If you’re looking to differentiate your build while still capitalizing on Coors exposure, consider pairing Turang with lower-owned Brewers or pivoting elsewhere for GPPs. In cash games, however, he’s an excellent play given his floor and favorable lineup spot.

Honorable Mentions

• Ozzie Albies ($4,300)
• Willi Castro ($3,800)
• Tyler Freeman ($3,300)

3B Plays

Top Play: Austin Riley ($4,300)

Austin Riley ($4,300) presents a strong case for inclusion in DFS lineups tonight, even with his recent move to the fifth spot in the Braves’ batting order. While this shift could slightly limit his plate appearances compared to hitting higher in the lineup, Riley remains a key bat in Atlanta’s potent offense. Facing Philadelphia, he draws a matchup against a right-hander, and while Riley’s early-season numbers are underwhelming (.111 average through seven games), his power upside is undeniable. The Braves have one of the league’s most dangerous lineups, and Riley’s 15.7% optimal lineup rate highlights his potential to produce at this salary.

Riley’s moderate ownership (19.3%) reflects solid interest from the field but doesn’t make him overwhelming chalk, which keeps him viable in tournaments. At 2.1x value and projected for 9.02 DraftKings points, he offers a reasonable floor with multi-hit and home run upside—evidenced by his Opening Day homer and 14-point performance just two days ago. If you’re targeting Braves stacks or looking for exposure to one of baseball’s best offenses without breaking the bank, Riley fits as a mid-tier play who can thrive even with reduced lineup priority.

Honorable Mentions

• Willi Castro ($3,800)
• Jose Caballero ($3,400)
• Oliver Dunn ($3,000)

SS Plays

Top Play: Bobby Witt Jr. ($5,800)

Bobby Witt Jr. ($5,800) offers an intriguing combination of power and speed in tonight’s matchup against the Twins. Hitting second in the Royals’ lineup, Witt is positioned for maximum plate appearances and run-scoring opportunities. He’s slashing .273/.347/.477 to start the season and has already chipped in three stolen bases and a homer, highlighting his ability to contribute across multiple categories. Minnesota’s pitching staff hasn’t been particularly dominant, and Witt’s mix of contact skills and speed makes him a strong option in both cash games and tournaments.

At 13.4% projected ownership, Witt is moderately popular but not overwhelmingly chalky, aligning closely with his optimal lineup rate of 14.7%. This suggests he’s appropriately valued for GPPs while still offering some leverage. His $5,800 salary might feel steep, but his consistent floor combined with multi-category upside justifies the price tag in this spot. If you’re looking for a shortstop who can deliver across all facets of the game without being overly contrarian or too obvious, Witt fits the bill nicely tonight.

Honorable Mentions

• Jose Caballero ($3,400)
• Orlando Arcia ($2,300)
• Trevor Story ($4,200)

OF Plays

Top Play: Jackson Chourio ($6,000)

Jackson Chourio ($6,000) finds himself in a premium DFS spot tonight as he takes on the Rockies at Coors Field. Batting second for the Brewers, Chourio benefits from a favorable hitting environment in MLB’s most hitter-friendly park. His recent form is outstanding, slashing .341 with three homers, five doubles, and seven runs scored over his last 10 games. Facing a left-handed starter in Kyle Freeland, who struggles to limit damage against right-handed bats, Chourio’s power-speed combination gives him immense upside. With an optimal lineup appearance rate of nearly 22% and a projection of 10.97 DK points, he offers a strong mix of floor and ceiling despite his high salary.

At 27% projected ownership, Chourio is one of the chalkier plays on tonight’s slate, but it’s easy to see why. The Brewers have an implied team total north of six runs, and his lineup spot ensures plenty of plate appearances in this run-producing environment. While the elevated ownership limits his appeal as a contrarian option in tournaments, fading him could be risky given his ability to contribute across multiple categories. If you’re comfortable eating some chalk in cash games or larger-field GPPs, Chourio is worth prioritizing given the elite hitting conditions and his current hot streak.

Honorable Mentions

• Marcell Ozuna ($4,500)
• Brenton Doyle ($5,000)
• Michael Harris II ($3,800)

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