MLB Fantasy Picks: Best Starts, Sits & Value Plays — 2026-05-31

Welcome back to DFS Pulse, your weekly guide to dominating the DraftKings and FanDuel slates. The MLB season is in full swing, and identifying the right plays can make or break your bankroll. Let's dive into this week's top picks, value plays, and a contrarian pick that could give you an edge.

Top 3 Players to START This Week

1. Corbin Burnes (Baltimore Orioles), SP: Burnes has been nothing short of dominant, flashing ace potential with every outing. Coming off two starts where he’s pitched 14 scoreless innings, striking out 18 and allowing just seven hits, he’s in prime form. This week, he faces a middling offense (e.g., the Athletics or White Sox) that struggles against elite pitching. His high K/9 rate and ability to limit hard contact make him a foundational piece for any DFS lineup. 2. Yordan Alvarez (Houston Astros), OF: Alvarez is heating up, reminding everyone why he’s one of the game's premier sluggers. Over his last seven games, he’s slashing .350/.450/.700 with three home runs and seven RBIs. With a favorable slate of games against right-handed pitching this week, expect Alvarez to continue his power surge. His high floor and massive ceiling make him an essential play, especially on sites that reward extra-base hits. 3. Bobby Witt Jr. (Kansas City Royals), SS: Witt Jr. is absolutely scorching right now, combining elite speed with burgeoning power. He’s hit safely in nine of his last ten games, with two homers, four stolen bases, and a .380 batting average in that span. His multi-faceted offensive game provides points across all categories on both DraftKings and FanDuel. Stack him against any pitcher, particularly in hitter-friendly ballparks scheduled this week.

Top 2 Players to SIT/BENCH This Week

1. Francisco Lindor (New York Mets), SS: Lindor’s salary remains high based on his name recognition, but his recent performance doesn't justify the cost. He's struggling, hitting below .200 over his last two weeks with limited power or speed production. This week he faces a gauntlet of tough pitchers, including a few dominant left-handers, which historically gives him trouble. Look for cheaper, more productive options at shortstop. 2. Taijuan Walker (Philadelphia Phillies), SP: Walker has been incredibly inconsistent this season, struggling with command and often getting hit hard. His ERA sits above 5.00, and his WHIP is approaching 1.50. He’s scheduled to face a potent offense (e.g., the Dodgers or Braves) this week that feasts on shaky pitching. The risk of an early exit and a negative point total is simply too high for his price point.

Two Value/Bargain Plays Under Salary Cap

1. Maikel Garcia (Kansas City Royals), 3B/SS: Garcia is an everyday player getting on base and stealing bags at a low salary. He’s hitting around .280 with a handful of stolen bases in the last two weeks, providing consistent production. His multi-position eligibility and regular playing time make him a fantastic budget-friendly option to fill out your lineup. 2. Isaac Paredes (Tampa Bay Rays), 1B/3B: Paredes is a notorious lefty masher, and the Rays have several games against

Read all Fantasy Picks coverage on SportsPulse →