MLB DFS: Expert Picks For May 8th - Sleepers & One To Avoid

Omar Yusuf

4 min read

Post on May 18, 2025

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Top Tier MLB DFS Picks for May 8th

This section highlights the elite MLB DFS players projected to deliver significant fantasy points on May 8th. We've considered salary, projected points, and matchups to identify the best value and highest ceiling options for your lineup.

High-Ceiling Pitchers

Selecting the right pitcher is crucial for a successful MLB DFS lineup. High strikeout potential and favorable matchups are key factors.

• Gerrit Cole (NYY): Cole faces a weak-hitting team, setting him up for a high strikeout game. His ERA and WHIP are consistently low, and his K/9 is exceptionally high. His salary might be higher, but his potential for a quality start and high fantasy points makes him a top consideration.
• Shane McClanahan (TB): McClanahan boasts impressive stats across the board, including a low ERA and WHIP, and a consistently high strikeout rate. His matchup presents a solid opportunity for another dominant performance. Consider his salary relative to projected points – he often provides excellent value.

High-Powered Hitters

Identifying hitters with strong projected performances against specific pitchers or in favorable ballpark conditions is essential for maximizing your MLB DFS score.

• Shohei Ohtani (LAA): Ohtani’s power and consistent production make him a top hitter choice for many MLB DFS lineups. Look for matchups where he's historically performed well.
• Mookie Betts (LAD): Betts is a consistent source of runs, RBIs, and stolen bases. He is a high-priced option but often justifies his salary. Check his historical performance against the opposing pitcher and the ballpark factors for potential added value. Consider his potential for a multi-home run game.

MLB DFS Sleepers for May 8th: Uncovering Hidden Gems

Finding undervalued players is key to winning big in MLB DFS. These sleepers offer high upside at a lower salary.

Under-the-Radar Pitching Options

Sometimes, the best MLB DFS strategies involve taking a chance on pitchers with lower projected ownership.

• Spencer Strider (ATL): While his salary might not be rock bottom, Strider’s potential for high strikeouts makes him a sleeper pick worth considering. Look for favorable matchups to maximize his value. His recent performance should be carefully evaluated.
• Logan Gilbert (SEA): Gilbert has shown flashes of brilliance and could be undervalued in certain matchups. His lower projected ownership percentage makes him an attractive option to differentiate your lineup.

Bargain Bin Hitters with High Upside

These budget-friendly hitters possess the potential to significantly exceed their projected points, boosting your MLB DFS score.

• Jake Burger (CHW): Burger's power potential makes him an attractive low-cost option, particularly if he's facing a pitcher with a history of allowing home runs. Look for favorable ballpark factors as well.
• Jose Abreu (CHW): A veteran presence, Abreu can provide consistent production at a relatively lower salary compared to other high-performing hitters. His ability to get on base and drive in runs makes him a potential hidden gem.

One MLB DFS Player to Avoid on May 8th

While some players might seem appealing at first glance, certain factors can significantly impact their performance, making them risky MLB DFS plays.

• Kyle Tucker (HOU): Tucker is a talented hitter, but a recent slump in his performance coupled with a tough matchup makes him a player to avoid on May 8th. His high projected ownership further decreases his value; if he underperforms, many other lineups will also suffer.

Conclusion

To recap, our top MLB DFS picks for May 8th include Gerrit Cole and Shane McClanahan on the pitching side, and Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts among hitters. For sleepers, consider Spencer Strider and Logan Gilbert on the mound, and Jake Burger and Jose Abreu at the plate. Avoid Kyle Tucker due to his recent slump and difficult matchup. Remember to always consider salary, matchups, and recent performance when building your MLB DFS lineup. Use this knowledge to maximize your chances of success! Use our expert MLB DFS picks to build your winning MLB DFS lineup for May 8th! Remember to check for late-breaking news and adjust your strategy accordingly. Good luck and happy stacking!