Welcome to your Thursday 7-Day Pitcher Outlook. As we head into the weekend, fantasy managers need to lock in their rotation for the week ahead. The rankings below reflect cumulative projections across all expected starts over the next seven days—not single-game performances. Whether you’re chasing strikeouts, ERA stability, or win equity, this report will guide your pitching decisions through next Thursday. Let’s dive in.
Must-Start Aces
Zack Wheeler (Phillies, RHP) projects to deliver 47.30 fantasy points over the next seven days, making him an elite option despite a crowded Phillies rotation. Wheeler’s season line of 4-1 with a pristine 2.27 ERA demonstrates his ability to pile up quality innings, and his projected strikeout total this week should keep him in fantasy lineups. The Phillies’ ace profiles as a weekly workhorse you can confidently slot into your roster.
Chris Sale (Braves, LHP) matches Wheeler’s 47.30 projected fantasy points and comes with even more pedigree: an impressive 8-3 record and 2.01 ERA this season. Over the next seven days, Sale should accumulate significant strikeouts given his elite velocity and the Braves’ quality matchups. His sub-2.10 ERA suggests consistent excellence, making him a co-anchor for your pitching staff this week.
Strong Streamers
Shota Imanaga (Cubs, LHP) projects to earn 46.00 fantasy points over the next seven days, narrowly missing ace status but still deserving strong consideration. While his 4.37 season ERA is elevated compared to the top tier, Imanaga’s 69 strikeouts indicate he’s capable of high-volume performances. The Cubs’ recent offensive struggles could lead to fewer runs for Imanaga to work with, but his projected strikeout potential this week makes him a reliable weekly streamer in deeper leagues.
Carlos Rodón (Yankees, LHP) projects 44.80 fantasy points across the next seven days and represents solid mid-tier value. Though his season numbers appear modest—just 20 strikeouts through a 1-2 start—Rodón is pitching for the Yankees’ potent lineup and should have win opportunities. His 3.32 ERA provides a floor of reliability, making him a dependable fourth or fifth starter option this week.
Risky Upside Plays
Jared Jones (Pirates, RHP) projects 43.40 fantasy points this week but comes with significant volatility attached. His season line of 0-0 with a bloated 10.38 ERA is concerning, and the young Pirates pitcher has generated just six strikeouts so far. However, positive regression is possible, and his youth suggests upside. Only consider Jones if you’re desperate for streaming depth and willing to absorb the risk of a quality-start miss.
Kai-Wei Teng (Astros, RHP) rounds out the week’s options at 41.90 projected fantasy points, offering modest appeal as a fill-in starter. Teng’s 2.57 ERA and 43 strikeouts show competence, but his 3-3 record limits win equity this week. The Astros’ mediocre pitching depth means Teng could see favorable workload, but his ceiling remains capped. Use him only if you need a safe, low-upside streaming option in superficial leagues.