This article is part of our The Daily Duel series.
With just over a week of games in the books, we are starting to get a better idea of some of the better plays in the FanDuel Daily Fantasy Sports game. Remember when deciding on your players, it's just as important to figure out not only who to play but all the other factors to consider (park, opposing pitcher, weather). In fact, the tip of the week is to always check the weather. Obviously a rainout is an absolute buzz-kill since whichever players you have going will not score any points for you. Another weather factor to consider, though, is the wind. Places like Wrigley Field can impact a hitter depending on which way the wind is blowing. For example, Tuesday's early game saw the wind gusting up to 30 mph out of the park, which meant a high scoring game was likely. A total of 11 runs were scored including a Welington Castillo home run, which appeared to be helped out by the wind. Always note the weather, more than just the possibility of precipitation.
Catcher
Evan Gattis, ATL, $3100 – The Braves have found a bat in Gattis who is a little too old at age 26 to be considered a big-time prospect. However, he has already shown he has a lot of pop in his bat hitting two home runs so far this season. A plus with Gattis is that for the time being he should continue to qualify at catcher only but the Braves will let him play some outfield and designated hitter during Interleague play. Gattis demonstrated good plate discipline in the minors and while Brian McCann will be back soon, the Braves will find creative ways to get Gattis' bat in the lineup.
Jesus Montero, SEA, $2900 – Montero has seen his price drop after getting off to a slow start this season. Heading into Tuesday's game, he's started the season going 4-for-25 (.160) with no extra base hits. While that's not the most encouraging start to the season, Montero is too talented for this mini-slump to continue. The Mariners are currently on a home stand, which could be what Montero needs to heat up at the plate. Keep an eye on Montero and be ready to plug him in once he starts showing signs of life.
First Base
Ryan Howard, PHI, $3300 – After a hot spring where Howard hit home runs against left-handed pitching he's gotten off to a slow start. The good news is that Ben Revere, Jimmy Rollins and Chase Utley all appear to be ready to set the table in front of Howard. Tuesday night Howard got off the snide by hitting his first home run of the season off Dillon Gee. Howard has good pitching parks (home and at Cincinnati) or good pitching matchups (vs. Miami) over his next 10 games, which gives him a lot of potential over the next week and a half.
Second Base
Jedd Gyorko, SD, $2900 – Gyorko has spent the beginning of the season filling in for the injured Chase Headley, who should be back soon. After Headley returns it's probable that Gyorko moves over to second base where he was oringially expected to start prior to Headley's injury. Last season at Triple-A Tuscon Gyorko raked, posting a .968 OPS as a 23-year-old. While Petco isn't an ideal ballpark to hit in, the effects of moving in the fences can't hurt Gyorko's numbers. Look for him to be an everyday player even after Headley returns and to continue to hit in the middle of the Padres' lineup.
Shortstop
Pete Kozma, STL, $2900 – The injury to Rafael Furcal has opened up playing time for Kozma, who has taken full advantage thus far. After posting a .952 OPS in limited playing time last season (82 plate appearances), Kozma had a hot spring and has hit well to start the season, going 8-for-27 (.296) through Tuesday.
Third Base
Juan Francisco, ATL, $2700 – Francisco was set to play this season as the left-handed hitting part of a platoon with Chris Johnson. With the Freddie Freeman getting placed on the 15-day DL, Francisco should see some added time for the next two weeks. However, it's wise to only play Francisco against right-handed pitching, as he's hit just .176 in 68 at-bats against southpaws.
Outfield
Chris Heisey, CIN, $3100 – Following the news that Ryan Ludwick will miss the next few months with a shoulder injury, Heisey should see more time as a starter in the outfield. He saw a drop in power last year (18 to seven), but at 28, Heisey should be in the prime of his career. The Reds have a potent lineup and good hitter's ballpark that should help Heisey at home. In fact, 15 of Heisey's 25 home runs over the past two seasons have come at home, which is a great indication when you should consider using him.
Matt Joyce, TB, $2900 – At 28, and only two seasons removed from a 19 homer, 13-steal campaign, it really seems like Joyce was undervalued heading into the season. He hits towards the top of the order and should be a regular in the lineup for time being.
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