MLB DFS Lineup Advice & Picks: Friday (5/12)

The work week concludes with a massive MLB DFS slate. Gamers have 13 contests to choose players from, and the slate begins at 7:05 pm ET. Thus, there are four suggested starting pitchers, three stacks, three core studs and three values/punts in today’s MLB DFS Primer.

Friday's Starting Pitcher Strategy
The top-ranked pitcher doesn't have a cupcake to feast on tonight. Nevertheless, he's too good to ignore, even in a potentially challenging matchup. The second pitcher on the table is an inviting tournament pick. Finally, the last two pitchers on the table are the most attractive SP2s at DK and viable in GPPs on FD.

Cash Game Recommendations:

Spencer Strider (ATL) at TOR
Strider is carving up the opposition this year. According to FanGraphs, his 2.63 xERA is the second-lowest among qualified pitchers in 2023. Strider's also spun a 2.70 ERA, 2.59 xFIP and 0.93 WHIP. Yet, this year, Strider's absurd 42.4 K% and 36.1 CSW% are his most eye-catching numbers.

Thus, Strider's a matchup-proof ace. However, he's labeled as a medium-risk pitcher because the Blue Jays are seventh in wRC+ (110) against righties this year. Nevertheless, per Betting Pros, the Braves are -156, and the game's total of 8.5 runs isn't terrifying. So, Strider is the top hurler across game types tonight.

J.P. France (HOU) at CWS
France is a 28-year-old rookie. He threw 5.0 scoreless innings in Seattle last week, allowing only three hits and a walk while striking out five batters. It was an impressive debut after pitching well in Triple-A since 2021. In 210.1 innings in Triple-A, France had a 3.64 ERA, 4.50 FIP, 1.31 WHIP, 11.1 BB% and 29.8 K%.

France's FIP and walk rate were reasons for pause. However, his high-strikeout rate is ideal for DFS. In addition, his salary is affordable, the matchup is good and the betting info is acceptable. The Pale Hose are 22nd in wRC+ (86) and have a 22.3 K% against righties this year. And the Astros are -145, albeit with a moderately concerning game total of 9.0 runs. France brings enough to the table to warrant SP2 use in all game types at DK, freeing up the requisite salary to use Strider and some stud hitters. The rookie is also a reasonable tournament option at FD.

Friday's Hitter Strategy
Hunting for value is paramount on tonight's slate. Thankfully, players like Yepez, Edman and Duran fit the bill. Jung is underpriced at DK, too. The Giants have some appealing bargains as well. Still, gamers should also pay the requisite cap space to use Goldy in a smash spot tonight.

For our full MLB DFS lineup advice article, including cash game and GPP pitchers and top lineup stacks, check out our daily premium article