Welcome to another edition of the 2024 two-start pitcher rankings!
My rankings have four tiers: Set and Forget, Probably Start, Questionable, and Avoid. Set and Forget starters are simply that; get them in your lineup and don’t think twice. The Most Likely Start tier includes players with the mix of skill and matchups that make them almost certainly two-start plays, but not without some elevated risk compared to the top tier. Questionable starters are those best suited for daily lineup leagues where you can bench them against the tougher of their two opponents or are more situation-dependent in weekly leagues. Finally, we have the Avoid tier, which includes two start SPs who should remain on your bench or the wire.
Each week, I’ll be selecting my Two-Start Streamer of the Week. The criteria for a streamer will be a rostered rate under 50% in Yahoo leagues. The Streamer of the Week will be highlighted in the tables in green. Reach out to me in the PL+ Discord or on Twitter @AnthonyTucker81 and let me know if you’d grade the weekly streamer as a win or loss.
As a friendly reminder, the projected starters are just that, projections and subject to change.
Set and Forget
- Logan Webb struggled throughout July, but got back on track against the lowly A’s, pitching a complete game shutout. He should keep the momentum going against two other weak lineups.
- Michael King could potentially start Tuesday after getting scratched for Sunday’s start. Without clarity on if he’ll be ready to go, he doesn’t make the rankings. Whoever gets the nod twice for the Friars will see the Pirates and Marlins. If it’s King, he’s in tier one.
Most Likely
- There are a collection of upside arms with decent matchups in the upcoming week and many of them might still be on waivers. Sean Manaea and Hayden Birdsong are both under 50% rostered and make for great additions to your roster if available. Manaea posted a 2.70 ERA in July, settling in as perhaps the most dependable arm on a Mets team making a surge for a Wild Card position. He’s this week’s Two Start Streamer of the Week.
- Unlike Manaea, MacKenzie Gore has seemingly hit a wall. Reduced fastball velocity and elevated walk totals have both contributed to the struggles.
Questionable
- Rookie David Festa makes for an interesting addition down the stretch, especially against the Cubs. In weekly leagues, he’s worth the risk against the division-leading Guardians. The Twins themselves might be the biggest inhibitor to Festa’s fantasy value; the team has had a short leash with the right-hander.
- JP Sears is likely best served for points leagues, even with a pair of good matchups. While he’s pitched better as of late, the lefty has been volatile all season.