Smart MLB DFS Picks For May 8th: Sleeper Plays And Hitters To Target/Avoid

5 min read Post on May 15, 2025

Smart MLB DFS Picks For May 8th: Sleeper Plays And Hitters To Target/Avoid

Top Hitters to Target on May 8th

Building a winning MLB DFS lineup starts with identifying high-potential hitters. Here's a breakdown of players to prioritize on May 8th, categorized by their strengths.

High-Ceiling Power Bats

Focus on players with proven power against the opposing pitcher's handedness. A right-handed batter facing a left-handed pitcher, for example, often presents a high-reward opportunity. Look for players with high home run percentages, slugging percentages (SLG), and isolated power (ISO). Recent hot streaks are also a key indicator.

Aaron Judge (NYY) vs. LHP: Judge's history against lefties is outstanding, making him a top target if facing a southpaw. His power numbers are consistently high, and a home run is always in play.
Pete Alonso (NYM) vs. LHP: Similar to Judge, Alonso crushes left-handed pitching. His high ISO and consistent power make him a strong consideration for your MLB DFS lineup.
Kyle Schwarber (PHI) vs. RHP: While facing a righty, Schwarber's immense power makes him a worthwhile risk, especially in a hitter-friendly ballpark. Check the park factors before locking him in.

Consistent Contact Hitters with High Averages

While power is exciting, consistent contact hitters with high batting averages and on-base percentages (OBP) provide a steadier floor for your MLB DFS lineup. These players rack up points through singles, doubles, and walks, offering a reliable source of points even without home runs.

Freddie Freeman (LAD): Freeman is known for his consistent batting average and high OBP. Even without massive power numbers, he consistently delivers valuable DFS points.
Jeff McNeil (NYM): McNeil boasts a high batting average and a knack for getting on base, making him a solid option for building a balanced MLB DFS lineup.
Luis Arraez (MIA): Arraez is a batting average machine, leading the league in batting average in recent seasons. His consistency is a valuable asset in DFS.

Value Plays with Upside

Finding value players with high upside is crucial for maximizing your ROI in MLB DFS. These players offer significant potential for a high return relative to their salary. Favorable ballpark factors can further enhance their value.

[Insert player name and team]: This player, despite a lower salary, presents a strong matchup against a pitcher they've historically performed well against. Check their recent performance and projected ownership.
[Insert player name and team]: This player's recent uptick in performance, combined with a favorable pitching matchup, makes them an attractive value play.
[Insert player name and team]: Playing in a hitter-friendly ballpark significantly increases this player's potential for a big game and a great return on investment.

Sleeper Plays to Consider on May 8th

Don't overlook these under-the-radar players who could significantly outperform their projected ownership.

Under-the-Radar Performers

These players might have low ownership projections due to recent slumps or limited playing time, but a favorable matchup could lead to a breakout performance.

[Insert player name and team]: This player has a strong history against the opposing pitcher, even if recent stats don't reflect it. A positive regression is possible.
[Insert player name and team]: Despite a recent slump, this player's previous performance suggests a bounce-back game is likely against this specific pitching matchup.
[Insert player name and team]: With increased playing time, this player could prove to be a steal for your MLB DFS lineup.

Players with Potential Breakout Games

Some players show flashes of brilliance but lack consistency. A change in batting order, recent adjustments at the plate, or a favorable matchup could unlock their potential. These players carry higher risk, but the reward is significant.

[Insert player name and team]: Recent batting practice reports suggest improved mechanics, hinting at a potential breakout.
[Insert player name and team]: A move up in the batting order could drastically improve this player's opportunities and resulting DFS score.
[Insert player name and team]: This player is due for some positive regression, given their past performance and present opportunity.

Hitters to Avoid on May 8th

While focusing on high-potential players is key, equally important is identifying players to avoid to protect your ROI.

Tough Matchups

Some players face incredibly difficult matchups against elite pitchers or pitchers with strong historical success against them. Avoid these players unless their salary is exceptionally low.

[Insert player name and team]: Facing an ace pitcher with a proven track record against this type of hitter.
[Insert player name and team]: Historically struggles against this pitcher's style of pitching.
[Insert player name and team]: The pitcher's history against left-handed hitters (or right-handed, depending on the batter) significantly lowers this player's chances of success.

Recent Slumps and Injuries

Players experiencing slumps or dealing with injuries present a high risk. Their performance is uncertain, making them less desirable for your MLB DFS lineups.

[Insert player name and team]: Currently in a significant batting slump, showing no immediate signs of improvement.
[Insert player name and team]: A nagging injury could limit their playing time or impact their performance.
[Insert player name and team]: Recent comments from the team suggest a possible day off or reduced playing time due to injury concerns.

Conclusion

This article provided smart MLB DFS picks for May 8th, highlighting top hitters to target, potential sleeper plays, and players to avoid. We analyzed player matchups, recent performance, and value to help you build winning DFS lineups. Remember to always check for late-breaking news and lineup changes before finalizing your rosters.

Call to Action: Use these smart MLB DFS picks as a foundation for your May 8th lineups, but remember to conduct your own research and adjust your strategy based on the latest information. Good luck, and may your smart MLB DFS picks lead you to victory! Remember to always check for updates and adjust your strategy accordingly. Happy stacking!