We have another full docket of games scheduled for Friday as clubs continue to be hit hard with injuries and COVID-related absences this week. Both the Idaho Taters and Alamo Short Stacks have been left short-handed for the remainder of the week, a development that could push some early trade talks over the weekend.
Here's the latest "On The Lookout" for Friday.
deGrom Looks to Continue Dominance in Coors
The Hammerheads have been one of the teams stung by the persistent postponements that have hit the New York Mets to start 2021. Thursday's cancellation pushed ace Jacob deGrom back to today with a start in snowy Coors Field. It's expected to be in the 30's which is less than ideal making deGrom's start one to watch on Friday's schedule.
Weathers Set for First Start for Fringe
GM Tony Guglielmi made a savvy move entering Period 2, claiming left-hander Ryan Weathers who is now set for his first career start against the Dodgers. While Weathers isn't in the Active Lineup for the Fringe, he presents significant upside long-term, even in a crowded Padres rotation. The 21-year-old has fired six innings of one-run baseball in 2021, already compiling 29.0 points out of the bullpen. At a minimum, Weathers could increase his value across the league and give Guglielmi another potential trade asset for 2021.
Is This the Real Steven Matz?
The Grapes have built some depth in their rotation through the Reserve Draft and Waivers as Logan Allen and Trevor Rogers are joined by Steven Matz as viable starting options early in the season. Matz is off to a dominant start in 2021, allowing just a pair of runs in 12 1/3 innings while punching out 13 and allowing just seven hits in that span. He will look to continue that streak against the Royals on Friday.
Can Folty Be Trusted?
As mentioned in Friday's Rumor Central, the Ducks are on the hunt for additional starting pitching help but have managed to piece together some strong early performances on the mound. The Ducks rank 5th in pitcher scoring while holding a 2.76 ERA, the second best mark in the league. Mike Foltynewicz is one of the unexpected pillars of the rotation early and is coming off a seven inning gem against the Padres. With a favorable matchup against the Orioles on Friday, Folty will try and prove to GM Ryan Walsh that he can be a trusted member of the Ducks rotation moving forward.
Can Goutfish Stay Hot at the Plate?
The Goutfish are surprisingly expected to get Fernando Tatis, Jr. back in the lineup as soon as this weekend, but the absence of the star shortstop has done little to slow down their powerful lineup. The Gout lead the RDBL in hitting over the last week, slashing .288/.372/.493 with 13 home runs and 14 doubles. Ronald Acuña continues to lead the charge, blasting his 7th home run on Thursday. Acuña started off the season 2-for-12 with no homers. Since then, he's hitting .525 with a 1.790 OPS and 7 bombs, all of which lead MLB over that span.
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