Another Thursday, another single-game showdown for us to contemplate. In fact, from here on in every DFS contest for baseball will be a single-game affair. With the early completion of the NLCS we have seen the end of multiple baseball games a day for the 2019 season. However, with a blockbuster ALCS to conclude, let's take a look at our Thursday options as the Houston Astros and New York Yankees square off.
The total in this game is set at 8.5, with the Yankees as favorites. That would suggest that Masahiro Tanaka is in play as the Yankees pitcher. However, with the weather expected to be blowing hard out from the plate, this might be a time where you go without a single pitcher in your showdown lineup.
In this article, I will be providing you with my daily fantasy baseball lineup picks for DraftKings on 10/17/19. The lineup picks will range from some of the elite players to mid-priced options and value plays. Be sure to also check out all the Vegas Odds for today's slate. You can also read more DFS advice and lineup picks for sites like FanDuel, and other sports too. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to hit me up on Twitter @benrolfe15.
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DraftKings DFS Captain Selection
Aaron Judge, NYY (vs. HOU) - $13,500
There were plenty of options for this spot, but I settled for Judge, who has had a solid series to date through his first three games. He is also hitting .294 with a .225 ISO at home, as well as having a .251 ISO and .354 wOBA against right-handed pitchers. His season-long numbers against lefties are actually better so he will be a tough guy for the Astros to neutralize with their bullpen.
DraftKings DFS Utility Selections
Gleyber Torres, NYY (vs. HOU) - $9,400
The young talented shortstop has solid numbers against both right- and left-handed pitchers. His .276 batting average, .256 ISO and .352 wOBA combined with 29 home runs when facing right-handed pitchers make him an easy selection in this one. Again another hitter who the Astros will struggle to neutralize through matchups.
Yuli Gurriel, HOU (@ NYY) - $7,600
Gurriel's numbers against right-handed pitchers are pretty eye-watering. In 435 PA he has a .320 batting average, .244 ISO and a .376 wOBA. His numbers against lefties power-wise are solid enough to prevent him from being a complete dud if the Yankees match lefties against him later in the game.
Michael Brantley, HOU (@ NYY) - $7,400
With 19 of his 22 home runs coming off righties to go with a .323 batting average against them Brantley is a solid play in this one. His .226 ISO and .385 wOBA suggest at this being both a solid floor play as well as offering some upside.
Brett Gardner, NYY (vs. HOU) - $7,000
His overall numbers are not that pretty, but Gardner has been hitting third in the lineup and has solid numbers when righties are on the mound. His .265 batting average coupled with a .281 ISO and a .368 wOBA are nice numbers for this price.
Robinson Chirinos, HOU (@ NYY) - $5,000
A complete gamble on power here. Chirinos has 14 of his 17 home runs off right-handed pitchers, giving him a .260 ISO. His .227 batting average and .318 wOBA offer a low floor, but at this price, it is about playing for upside, so you can stack better hitters in other spots.