This article is part of our DraftKings MLB series.
The players featured in this piece will be building blocks that can work in several lineup configurations (cash and GPP). Sunday brings Game 2 of the ALCS between the Red Sox and Astros -- and another opportunity to play the Showdown contest on DraftKings. Let's look at some players to consider.
Alex Bregman, HOU ($10,300): Bregman didn't record a hit in Game 1, but he walked three times and scored twice. He had a career-high 13.6 percent walk rate during the regular season and actually had more walks (96) than strikeouts (85). That kind of eye at the plate makes him one of the most deadly hitters in baseball when you also factor in his incredible power. David Price will start this game for the Red Sox, so this could be a matchup to exploit based on Bregman's 166 wRC+ against left-handed pitchers.
George Springer, HOU ($9,400): Springer played a key role in the Astros win in Game 1, logging a hit, two RBI and two walks. After proving to be a clutch hitter in the postseason last year by winning the World Series MVP award, he also had at least one hit in all three games of this year's ALDS against the Indians. With a career .387 wOBA against lefties, he could be a tough out for Price.
Jose Altuve, HOU ($8,900): The Red Sox held Altuve hitless Saturday as he stranded four runners on base. He did draw a walk and has now reached base at least one time in each of the Astros four playoff games. Altuve has thrived against left-handed pitching during his career, including going 9-for-26 (.346) against Price.
Tyler White, HOU ($7,800): White emerged as an important part of the Astros lineup over the second half of the season, especially during a stretch when they were missing several key bats due to injuries. He particularly excelled with a .423 wOBA against lefties. The Astros hit him fifth against Chris Sale in Game 1, and with another lefty on the mound Sunday, he could once again be hitting out of that favorable spot behind the likes of Springer, Altuve and Bregman.
Xander Bogaerts, BOS ($7,300): Bogaerts doesn't get a lot of headlines in a lineup that includes Mookie Betts and J.D. Martinez, but he had the best power year of his career with a .522 slugging percentage. Although he doesn't have the platoon advantage facing Gerrit Cole, Bogaerts actually hit better against right-handed pitchers (.379 wOBA) than he did lefties (.350 wOBA).
Jackie Bradley, BOS ($5,400): Bradley is known more for his glove than his bat, but he still provided some value at the plate with 33 doubles and 17 steals this season. This game being played in Fenway Park does make him a more viable candidate in DFS since he had a 109 wRC+ at home compared to a 73 wRC+ on the road. He also finished with a 103 wRC+ against right-handed pitchers, squashing his 50 wRC+ against lefties.
Roberto Osuna, HOU ($2,900): Due the blowout nature of the Astros' Game 1 victory, they had the luxury of not having to pitch Osuna. If the Astros need him Sunday, he'll certainly be well-rested. With the potential for him to log a save, he could be a reliever worth taking a chance on in tournament play based on the savings he also provides for your budget.
