Best MLB DFS Picks For May 8th: Sleeper Plays & Hitter To Avoid

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 16, 2025

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Top Tier MLB DFS Picks for May 8th

High-Value, High-Ceiling Players

Selecting high-value, high-ceiling players is fundamental to a successful MLB DFS strategy. These players offer the highest projected points based on their current form, favorable matchups, and park factors. For May 8th, consider these top choices:

• Shohei Ohtani (LAA): Ohtani's power numbers against right-handed pitching are exceptional, making him a strong GPP (guaranteed prize pool) play, especially considering his projected matchup. His recent performance shows consistent power and run production.

• Mookie Betts (LAD): Betts is consistently a top performer and his historical success against the opposing pitcher, combined with a favorable park factor, makes him a solid cash game and GPP option.

• Ronald Acuña Jr. (ATL): Acuña's speed, power, and overall offensive contributions make him a high-value pick in almost any matchup. Check his projected matchup for May 8th to confirm his suitability for your lineup.

Analyzing Pitching Matchups

Analyzing pitching matchups is critical when selecting hitters for your MLB DFS lineup. A hitter's historical performance against a specific pitcher, or even a pitcher's overall stats against a hitter's batting style (e.g., left-handed vs. right-handed), can significantly influence their DFS value.

• Favorable Matchups: Look for hitters with a strong track record against the opposing pitcher, or those facing pitchers with historically high ERA or WHIP against similar hitters.

• Unfavorable Matchups: Avoid hitters facing pitchers who have historically dominated them, or those known for suppressing power against their batting style. This is crucial for effective risk management in daily fantasy baseball.

Undervalued MLB DFS Sleeper Picks for May 8th

Identifying Hidden Gems

Sleeper picks are undervalued players with lower projected ownership but a high potential for exceeding expectations. They can be the key to differentiating your lineup from the competition and securing a significant return on investment.

• Alec Bohm (PHI): Bohm has been showing signs of life recently, and a favorable pitching matchup could lead to a significant point boost. This makes him a valuable sleeper pick for May 8th.

• Jose Abreu (CHW): While not always a consistent performer, Abreu has shown flashes of power, and if he connects against a weaker pitcher, his potential for a big game is high.

Utilizing Value Plays to Optimize Lineups

Value plays are essential for constructing a balanced, high-scoring DFS lineup while staying within your salary constraints. These players offer a good points-to-salary ratio, allowing you to allocate funds to higher-priced stars.

• Finding players with a lower salary but the potential for a high number of points.
• Utilize MLB DFS tools and projections to identify value plays based on daily updates.
• Experiment with different lineup combinations to maximize your value within your budget.

MLB DFS Hitter to Avoid on May 8th

Players to Steer Clear Of

Identifying players to avoid is as important as selecting your top picks. Some players may underperform due to poor form, tough matchups, or other factors.

• Juan Soto (SDP): Soto has been struggling recently, and a tough matchup could exacerbate his current slump. His high salary makes him a risky choice.

Understanding Risk Management in MLB DFS

Risk management is paramount in daily fantasy sports. Avoiding high-risk, low-reward players can significantly improve your chances of winning. By carefully analyzing matchups and player form, you can minimize your exposure to potential losses.

Final Thoughts on the Best MLB DFS Picks for May 8th

To recap, our analysis for May 8th highlighted key high-value players like Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts, undervalued sleepers such as Alec Bohm and Jose Abreu, and a hitter to avoid, Juan Soto. Remember that considering pitching matchups and player form is crucial for building a winning MLB DFS lineup. Use these best MLB DFS picks for May 8th to build your winning lineup and dominate the competition!