MLB DFS Ace Matrix – Top 5 Pitchers for August 18, 2025 (Main Slate)
Ranked by the Ace Matrix — a sharp grading system crafted by a veteran DFS grinder — blending K Upside, Run Prevention, Win Equity, Leverage, and Role/Pitch Count. This tool distills pitching data into one clear view, layering recent form and opponent splits so you can anchor cash builds and unlock contrarian GPP upside.
#1 Trevor Rogers (LHP) — Matchup: BAL@BOS | Ace Matrix: 8.05
Component Score
Recent: Trending form aligns with workload; QS path live if command holds and pitch count stretches.
Opp Splits: Opponents show exploitable K pockets vs lefties; neutral-to-positive platoon outlook.
#2 Robbie Ray (LHP) — Matchup: SF@SD | Ace Matrix: 7.65
Component Score
Recent: Trending form aligns with workload; QS path live if command holds and pitch count stretches.
Opp Splits: Opponents show exploitable K pockets vs lefties; neutral-to-positive platoon outlook.
#3 Yoshinobu Yamamoto (RHP) — Matchup: LAD@COL | Ace Matrix: 7.63
Component Score
Recent: Trending form aligns with workload; QS path live if command holds and pitch count stretches.
Opp Splits: Lineup has chase-prone segments vs righties; execution of primary offspeed is key.
#4 Spencer Strider (RHP) — Matchup: CWS@ATL | Ace Matrix: 7.09
Component Score
Recent: Trending form aligns with workload; QS path live if command holds and pitch count stretches.
Opp Splits: Lineup has chase-prone segments vs righties; execution of primary offspeed is key.
#5 Brady Singer (RHP) — Matchup: CIN@LAA | Ace Matrix: 6.88
Component Score
Recent: Trending form aligns with workload; QS path live if command holds and pitch count stretches.
Opp Splits: Lineup has chase-prone segments vs righties; execution of primary offspeed is key.
Ace Matrix Conclusion
The Ace Matrix spotlights Trevor Rogers as the slate’s premier anchor with premium strikeout projection and stable workload.
Robbie Ray profiles as a balanced SP1/2 with win equity.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto offers mid-tier leverage and ceiling upside in GPPs.
Strategy: lock the strongest Ace for cash builds and pivot to secondary Aces in tournaments, especially where park context swings variance and leverage.