May 8th MLB DFS: Top Sleeper Picks And One Batter To Bench

5 min read Post on May 15, 2025

May 8th MLB DFS: Top Sleeper Picks And One Batter To Bench

Top Sleeper Picks for May 8th MLB DFS

Building a successful MLB DFS lineup requires identifying undervalued players with high potential. Let's analyze some key areas to find those hidden gems for your May 8th DFS lineup.

Analyzing Value Plays: Finding Undervalued Gems

Value in DFS is all about finding players with high projected points but low ownership percentages. This means you're getting a potentially high-scoring player without facing stiff competition from other DFS players. Key statistical metrics to consider include OPS (On-Base Plus Slugging), wOBA (Weighted On-Base Average), and projected points from various DFS platforms. Look for players with high projected points but lower ownership percentages.

Example 1: Let's say Player A (a less-known hitter) has a projected score of 12 points and only 5% ownership, while Player B (a star player) has a projected score of 15 points and 70% ownership. Player A could be a great value pick for your May 8th MLB DFS lineup, offering a higher potential return for your investment.
Specific Player Example (May 8th projections – these are hypothetical and should be verified with updated data before lineup lock): Brandon Nimmo (OF, Mets) – While Nimmo is known, if his projected points are high relative to his ownership percentage due to a specific favorable matchup, he becomes a strong value play for your May 8th DFS lineup.

Targeting Favorable Matchups: Exploiting Pitcher Weaknesses

A favorable matchup can significantly boost a hitter's performance. Analyze pitcher tendencies and historical performance against certain types of hitters (left vs. right, power hitters vs. contact hitters). Look for pitchers with a history of struggles against the type of hitter you're considering.

Example 2: A pitcher who consistently gives up home runs to left-handed batters presents a perfect opportunity to select a powerful left-handed hitter in your May 8th MLB DFS lineup.
Specific Player Example (May 8th projections – hypothetical, verify with up-to-date data): If a right-handed pitcher with a history of allowing high batting averages to left-handed power hitters is starting, consider selecting a strong left-handed power hitter like Kyle Schwarber (OF, Phillies) for your May 8th DFS lineup.

Considering Recent Performance and Momentum: Riding the Hot Streak

Don't underestimate the power of recent performance. A player on a hot streak or showing signs of improvement is more likely to continue performing well. Look at recent game stats, including batting average, home runs, RBIs, and runs scored.

Example 3: A player with three home runs in their last five games might be a great addition to your MLB DFS lineup on May 8th.
Specific Player Example (May 8th projections – hypothetical, verify with up-to-date data): If a player, let's say Julio Rodríguez (OF, Mariners), is showing consistently high batting averages and on-base percentages in his last few games, he represents a strong choice to consider for your May 8th DFS lineup.

One Batter to Bench on May 8th: Avoiding High-Risk Plays

Not every player is a sure bet. Identifying potential underperformers can save you valuable points in your MLB DFS lineup.

Identifying Potential Underperformers: Avoiding the Busts

Several factors can contribute to a player underperforming. These include a tough matchup against a dominant pitcher, injury concerns (even minor ones), or a noticeable slump in recent games. Look for statistical indicators like a significantly lower batting average, high strikeout rate, or consistent low fantasy point totals in recent games.

Example 4: A player facing a top-tier pitcher known for shutting down lefties (if the player is a lefty) could be a risky choice for your May 8th MLB DFS lineup.

High Ownership Percentage but Low Projected Points: The Trap of Popularity

Beware of highly owned players who lack justification for their popularity. A player might be popular due to name recognition, but their projected points might not reflect their true potential, making them a risky high-ownership play.

Example 5: A star player facing a tough matchup might have high ownership due to his name, but could significantly underperform, leaving you with a poor return on your investment in your May 8th DFS lineup. This could be detrimental to your overall score. For example, a player like Shohei Ohtani (DH/P, Angels) may have high ownership but low projected points if his pitching schedule conflicts with his hitting performance.

Conclusion: Maximize Your May 8th MLB DFS Lineup

To recap, building a winning May 8th MLB DFS lineup involves a strategic blend of identifying value plays, exploiting favorable matchups, and assessing recent performance. Remember to consider the key statistical metrics we discussed and avoid high-risk players with low projected points despite high ownership. By using these insights and focusing on sleeper picks, you'll significantly improve your chances.

Use these May 8th MLB DFS sleeper picks and avoidances to build your winning lineup today! Good luck!