MLB Pitching Pulse 8-9-17

By: Jason Guilbault, Updated August 09, 2017

Each day of the MLB season will bring us some major price differences among starting pitchers on all sites. These price discrepancies and the site's roster differences can alter the way we use pitchers on each site, as well as how the field of opponents will use them. Listed below are five of today's top pitchers, each with their salary listed as well as the cafe value that takes into account both the total salary cap on the site and points-per-dollar. We've also provided some betting info for you reference. The higher the cafe value, the better the points-per-dollar play is.

Gio Gonzalez

If you have followed me in the past, you know I am not the biggest Gio Gonzalez fan. This year is about the same. He has a 2.66 ERA, but a 4.31 xFIP and a BABIP about 50 points below his career norm. His SwStr% and K% are on par with his last few seasons, but his velocity is down across the board. I still believe there are subpar starts coming for Gonzalez, which is why I will continue to avoid in cash games, especially tonight. He is high-priced, and there are talented arms around him. His ownership should be low. He has dominated Miami this season, striking out 20, throwing 21 innings and allowing just three earned runs. Miami is a pretty neutral offense against lefties this season, although Giancarlo Stanton is red hot right now. Given Gonzalez is the most expensive pitcher on this slate for DraftKings, I rather go elsewhere. He is cheaper on FanDuel, making for a better tournament arm at lower ownership. Gonzalez still carries risk despite his 2.66 ERA and Vegas odds. If you want to fade completely, you will not hear a peep from me. There are plenty of options for tonight's slate.