MLB Week 22 Fantasy Baseball Forecast

As we enter Week 22 of the MLB season, fantasy baseball managers are gearing up for the final stretch of the regular season. This week is crucial as it marks the last opportunity for teams to secure their playoff spots in ESPN standard leagues. The top four teams in the standings will advance to the playoffs, with the team holding the best record facing the wild-card team with the worst record, and the remaining two teams squaring off.

Key Matchups to Watch

New York Mets vs. Philadelphia Phillies (Monday - Wednesday) The New York Mets need a strong performance in their series against the Philadelphia Phillies to stay in the race for the National League East title. This three-game series will be pivotal for both teams as they look to secure their playoff positions.

Seattle Mariners vs. San Diego Padres (Monday - Wednesday) Interleague play brings us an exciting series between the Seattle Mariners and the San Diego Padres. Both teams are looking to make a late push for the playoffs, making this series a must-watch.

Milwaukee Brewers vs. Toronto Blue Jays (Friday - Sunday) The NL Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers will visit the American League East-leading Toronto Blue Jays for a three-game series. This matchup will be a test for both teams as they prepare for the postseason.

Pitcher Rankings

Here are the top starting pitchers for Week 22:

1. Jesus Luzardo (PHI) - Tue 8/26 @ NYM (Manaea), Sun 8/31 vs. ATL (Strider)
2. Cristopher Sanchez (PHI) - Mon 8/25 @ NYM (Senga), Sat 8/30 vs. ATL (Sale)
3. Tarik Skubal (DET) - Mon 8/25 @ ATH (Ginn), Sun 8/31 @ KC (Cameron)
4. Sean Manaea (NYM) - Tue 8/26 vs. PHI (Luzardo), Sun 8/31 vs. MIA (Alcantara)
5. Joe Ryan (MIN) - Mon 8/25 @ TOR (Scherzer), Sun 8/31 vs. SD (Sears)

Player Spotlight: Chris Sale

Defending NL Cy Young Award winner Chris Sale is expected to rejoin the Atlanta Braves' rotation on Saturday in Philadelphia. Sale has been out for the past two months due to a fractured left rib but made his final minor league rehabilitation start for Triple-A Gwinnett on Saturday, Aug. 23, allowing one run in 4 2/3 innings while striking out five batters. His return could be a game-changer for the Braves as they push for a playoff spot.

Schedule Observations

• Total Games: 136
• First Game Time: 6:35 PM
• Day Games: 0

Teams with the most games this week include the Diamondbacks, Braves, and Mets, each with seven games.

Hitter Matchup Ratings

Here are the top hitter matchups for Week 22:

• Arizona Diamondbacks: 7 games, all on the road
• Atlanta Braves: 7 games, including a crucial series against the Phillies
• New York Mets: 7 games, with a key series against the Phillies

Conclusion

Week 22 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting weeks of the MLB season. With playoff spots on the line, every game matters. Stay tuned for more updates and make sure to set your lineups accordingly in fantasy baseball.