MLB DFS Lineup Picks: May 8th - Value Plays & Player To Avoid

Axel S�rensen

5 min read

Post on May 18, 2025

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Top Value Plays for May 8th MLB DFS

Finding value is crucial for success in MLB DFS. Smartly selecting undervalued players can significantly boost your lineup's overall score. Here are some key areas to focus on when searching for value plays on May 8th:

Budget-Friendly Pitchers

Pitchers are often a cornerstone of successful MLB DFS lineups. However, you don't always need to break the bank to find a high-performing arm. Focus on these factors:

• High Strikeout Potential: Look for pitchers with a history of high strikeouts (K/9) facing teams known for striking out frequently. A pitcher with a high K/9 against a team with a low team batting average could be a goldmine.
• Favorable Matchups: Even pitchers with lower salaries can be valuable if they have a favorable matchup. Consider a pitcher facing a team with a weak batting order or one struggling against their pitching style (e.g., a left-handed pitcher facing a team with a high percentage of right-handed hitters).
• Advanced Stats: Utilize advanced pitching statistics beyond basic ERA. WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Inning Pitched) is critical; a low WHIP indicates control and limits baserunners.

Example (Hypothetical, replace with actual data for May 8th): Spencer Strider (ATL) vs. CIN. Strider has a high K/9 and the Cincinnati Reds have historically struggled against right-handed pitching. This could be a strong value pick for May 8th.

Undervalued Hitters

Finding undervalued hitters is just as important as finding pitching value. These strategies will help you unearth hidden gems in your MLB DFS lineup picks:

• Recent Performance: Examine recent game logs. A hitter who's been on a hot streak, even if their salary hasn't adjusted yet, presents significant value.
• Favorable Lineup Position: Hitters batting leadoff or cleanup often get more plate appearances, increasing their potential for points.
• Team Run Projections: Look for hitters on teams projected for high run totals. These players have a higher chance of contributing points, even with a lower batting average.
• Matchup Analysis: Analyze the opposing pitcher. Does this hitter historically perform well against that pitcher's style? Consider splits (performance vs. lefties vs. righties).

Example (Hypothetical, replace with actual data for May 8th): Bobby Witt Jr. (KC) vs. a pitcher with a high walk rate. Witt Jr.'s power potential, combined with a pitcher prone to issuing free passes, creates a valuable MLB DFS lineup pick.

Players to Avoid on May 8th

Identifying players to avoid is just as crucial as finding value plays. These players may be overpriced or have unfavorable matchups.

Overpriced Pitchers

Not all high-priced pitchers are worth the investment. Be wary of these scenarios:

• Questionable Matchups: A high-priced pitcher facing a strong offensive lineup is a risky proposition. Consider the opposing team's batting average, power numbers (HR), and their recent offensive performance.
• Poor Recent Performance: Even a great pitcher can have a bad stretch. Check their last few starts – a high ERA or WHIP should raise red flags.
• Hitter-Friendly Ballparks: Some ballparks are notoriously favorable to hitters. Account for this factor when evaluating a pitcher's potential.

Example (Hypothetical, replace with actual data for May 8th): Shohei Ohtani (LAA) pitching against the New York Yankees. The Yankees' potent offense makes Ohtani a risky high-salary pick for May 8th.

Underperforming Hitters

Avoid these hitters, regardless of salary:

• Poor Recent Form: A slumping hitter is a gamble, no matter how low their salary. Focus on consistency.
• Tough Matchups: Check the opposing pitcher's stats and splits to assess whether the hitter is likely to perform well.
• Unfavorable Batting Splits: Left-handed hitters might struggle against left-handed pitchers, and vice versa. Consider a hitter's historical performance against specific pitching styles.

Example (Hypothetical, replace with actual data for May 8th): A hitter with a low batting average over their last 10 games, regardless of salary, is likely a player to avoid.

Building Your Optimal MLB DFS Lineup

Building your lineup is a strategic process. These factors will help you optimize your chances of winning:

Positional Flexibility

Don't be locked into specific positions. If a value play is available at a less-desirable position, consider using it if the overall value outweighs the positional preference.

Salary Management

Use DFS salary tools to help you construct a balanced lineup that maximizes your potential points without exceeding your budget.

Stacking

Consider "stacking" – selecting multiple players from the same team, especially if they're playing against a weak pitching staff. A team with a high run projection makes this strategy more lucrative.

Conclusion

Crafting winning MLB DFS lineups requires careful analysis and strategy. By focusing on the MLB DFS lineup picks and value plays highlighted above while diligently avoiding potential pitfalls, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Remember to utilize all available tools and resources to make informed decisions. Don't forget to check back for more daily MLB DFS lineup picks! Maximize your winnings with smart MLB DFS lineup picks.