Daily Fantasy Baseball News and Notes | First Pitch Podcast 3/31/26

First Pitch Podcast Podcast18mMarch 31, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The First Pitch Podcast for March 31, 2026, delivers a comprehensive breakdown of MLB transactions, injuries, and standout performances from Monday's full 15-game slate. Host Jake Crumpler covers key moves including Pavin Smith’s IL placement with elbow inflammation, the Giants’ trade for Dylan Smith and DFA of Luis Matos, and the Brewers’ surprising extension with Cooper Pratt. Notable performances highlight Miguel Vargas’ two-homer, six-RBI day for the White Sox and Jose Altuve’s four-hit, two-homer game for the Astros. On the mound, Parker Messick and Jack Leiter earned golden goals with strong outings, while Mike Soroka recorded a 10-strikeout shutout. The episode also analyzes reliever usage, with several pitchers recording saves after back-to-back appearances. Looking ahead to Tuesday, Crumpler highlights Max Fried vs. Logan Gilbert as the top matchup and recommends streamers like Max Scherzer and Zach Eflin. Hitter targets include Giants vs. Herman Marquez in Petco Park and Phillies vs. PJ Poulin in Citizens Bank Park. The episode closes with a strong call to action for listeners to support the Pitcher List platform and engage with daily fantasy content.

Key Takeaways
1

Miguel Vargas is a hidden gem in 15-team leagues due to his high run and RBI potential despite low stolen base totals.

2

Jose Altuve remains a top-tier fantasy asset with 20+ home run and 10+ steal upside, even if his batting average is expected to remain below .270.

3

Cooper Pratt’s $50.75M eight-year extension with the Brewers is surprising given his limited major league experience and low batting line.

4

Parker Messick’s efficient, command-focused start against the Dodgers shows promise as a solid rotation option for the Guardians.

5

Mike Soroka’s 10-strikeout performance suggests he could be a valuable fantasy option if Merrill Kelly remains on the IL.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Sponsor: Shopify & GoFundMe

Introductory ad for Shopify highlighting ease of use and integration, followed by a promotional segment for GoFundMe as a platform for personal and community fundraising.

2:09
3 min

Transactions & Injuries: Diamondbacks, Giants, Brewers

Coverage of Pavin Smith’s IL placement, the Giants’ trade for Dylan Smith and DFA of Luis Matos, and the Brewers’ extension with Cooper Pratt. Analysis of the strategic implications of each move.

5:00
3 min

Pitching Moves: Guardians, Braves, Marlins

Discussion of Colby Allard’s contract selection by the Guardians, Doug Nikhazy’s DFA, Didier Fuentes’ optioning by the Braves, and Davis De Los Santos’ demotion by the Marlins.

8:20
3 min

Notable Performances: Hitters – Vargas & Altuve

Vargas will be an underrated glue guy for 15 team leagues this season.

Highlight
11:40
5 min

Notable Performances: Pitchers – Messick, Leiter, Soroka

Messick was not electric here, but he did survive the Dodgers.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
Stream Max Scherzer against the Rockies in Toronto—ideal matchup for a low-risk, high-reward start.
Jake Crumpler31:32
Viral: 82.0
Leiter had no command of his pitches as only one of his offerings... eclipsed a 50% zone rate.
Jake Crumpler12:09
Viral: 78.0
Vargas will be an underrated glue guy for 15 team leagues this season.
Jake Crumpler8:22
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Host

Jake Crumpler
Topics Discussed
Daily Fantasy Baseball Strategy90%Pitching Performance Analysis88%Player Transactions and Roster Moves85%Hitter Value and Matchup Targets82%Injury Updates and IL Placements80%Fantasy Streamer Recommendations78%Reliever Usage and Closers75%Prospect Extensions and Development70%
People & Brands

Jake Crumpler

person

15xNeutral

Miguel Vargas

person

6xPositive

Cooper Pratt

person

5xPositive

Parker Messick

person

5xPositive

Jose Altuve

person

5xPositive

Luis Matos

person

4xNeutral

Pavin Smith

person

4xNeutral

Jack Leiter

person

4xMixed

Mike Soroka

person

4xNeutral

Ryan Walker

person

4xNeutral

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