Yusei Kikuchi

Yusei Kikuchi (0-1) struggled in his second start of the season on Wednesday as he allowed five runs on six hits in 5.1 innings. He walked four and struck out five as the Cubs went on to earn a 6-2 victory over the Angels.

Fantasy Impact

Kikuchi earned a no-decision in his first start of the year against Houston. He was not as fortunate on Wednesday as the lefthander labored through 91 pitches. However, Chicago scored five runs on five hits in the third inning - Kikucki allowed only one other hit in his outing. Kikuchi saw his ERA climb to 6.32 and has now allowed 19 baserunners (14 hits, five walks) in 9.2 innings through two starts this season. He's lined up to take the mound again early next week against the Braves.

Yusei Kikuchi lasted just 4.1 innings in his first start of the season on Friday and settled for a no-decision in the Angels' 6-2 win over the Astros. Kikuchi allowed two runs on eight hits with a walk and three strikeouts.

Fantasy Impact

Kikuchi was an All-Star in his first season with the Angels last year, pitching to a 3.99 ERA in 33 starts with 174 strikeouts in 178.1 innings. The 35-year-old should be a decent source of strikeouts for fantasy owners and has been reliable enough to take the mound nearly every turn in the rotation since he came to the majors in 2019.

Yusei Kikuchi allowed one earned run on one hit and one walk while striking out six over five innings in Wednesday's victory against the Royals.

Fantasy Impact

Kikuchi is not slated to make another start this season. He will finish the year with a 3.99 ERA and 1.42 WHIP with a 7-11 record across 33 starts this season.

Yusei Kikuchi allowed two earned runs on five hits and three walks while striking out two over 5.2 innings in Thursday's loss to the Brewers.

Fantasy Impact

After today’s performance, Kikuchi now has a 4.05 ERA and 1.45 WHIP with a 6-11 record across 32 starts this season. His strikeout gains from last season haven't translated over into 2025. His strikeout rate has fallen 5% compared to last season, and his walk rate is up almost 4%. He closes out his regular season next week against the Royals.

Yusei Kikuchi allowed one earned run on four hits and one walk while striking out three over six innings in Friday's loss to the Mariners.

Fantasy Impact

After today’s performance, Kikuchi now holds a 4.08 ERA and 1.46 WHIP with a 6-11 record across 31 starts this season. He now has 166 strikeouts in 167 2/3 innings of work this year.