2026 Masters Tournament

Introduction

The wait is finally over, the first major championship of the 2026 golf season has arrived. The golf world turns its attention to The Masters, held at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club, where tradition, history, and elite competition collide.

As always, this week brings together the strongest and most complete field in golf. The game’s biggest stars from the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and top international tours all converge on Augusta, creating a rare stage where the very best compete head-to-head. It’s a chance to see how the world’s elite stack up when the stakes are at their highest.

With its lightning-fast greens, demanding approach shots, and the constant pressure of major championship golf, Augusta National tests every facet of a player’s game. From the opening tee shot to the drama of the back nine on Sunday, The Masters consistently delivers some of the most memorable moments in golf. Simply put, there is nothing like it, and the 2026 edition should be no different.

Course Breakdown

This week, the golf world shifts its full attention to The Masters, held at the iconic Augusta National Golf Club. Unlike anything else on the schedule, Augusta National isn’t just a course, it’s a meticulous test of precision, creativity, and mental discipline that consistently identifies the most complete player in the field.

Augusta National plays as a par 72 measuring 7,565 yards, but the scorecard alone doesn’t come close to telling the full story. Designed by Bobby Jones and Alister MacKenzie, the course is defined by its strategic layout, dramatic elevation changes, and some of the most complex green complexes in the world. While distance has become more relevant in recent years, Augusta still heavily rewards players who can combine power with precision and elite course management.

Off the tee, Augusta National is more forgiving than a typical tight, tree-lined course, but that doesn’t mean driving can be overlooked. Players are often forced to shape tee shots to access optimal angles into greens, and being on the correct side of the fairway is crucial. Length can provide a significant advantage, especially on the par 5s, but players who are out of position will quickly find themselves playing defense rather than attacking.

Approach play is arguably the most important aspect of success at Augusta. The course demands elite iron play, particularly from mid-to-long ranges, as players frequently face approach shots from 150-200+ yards. However, it’s not just about hitting greens, it’s about hitting the right sections of greens. With severe slopes, tiers, and runoffs, being on the wrong side of the hole can turn a routine two-putt into a battle just to save par. Strokes gained approach and proximity to the hole remain some of the most predictive metrics year after year.

The greens at Augusta National are the course’s ultimate defense. Known for their lightning-fast speeds and dramatic undulation, they place an enormous premium on both putting and short game. Players will inevitably miss greens, and when they do, they are faced with some of the most challenging up-and-downs in golf. Tight lies, shaved runoffs, and tricky bunker placements require creativity, touch, and confidence around the greens. Scrambling and three-putt avoidance are critical stats to monitor this week.

One of the most unique elements of Augusta is how much the course evolves throughout the round. The elevation changes can affect club selection more than players expect, and swirling winds, especially around holes like Amen Corner, can make conditions difficult to judge. Even when winds are calm at ground level, they can be very different above the tree line, adding another layer of complexity.

The scoring dynamic at Augusta is also very distinct. The four par 5s are absolute must-score opportunities, and players who fail to take advantage of them typically fall behind quickly. On the flip side, many of the par 4s, particularly on the back nine, can play extremely challenging. The closing stretch is one of the most dramatic in golf, where risk-reward decisions often determine the outcome on Sunday.

Ultimately, Augusta National doesn’t favor just one type of player, it demands everything. Distance, precision, elite iron play, a world-class short game, and the ability to handle pressure all come into play. It’s why The Masters so consistently produces the most deserving champions, and why success here is one of the ultimate benchmarks in the game.

Tournament History

Looking at the recent history of The Masters at Augusta National Golf Club, we’ve seen a wide range of winning scores over the past two decades, largely influenced by course setup and weather conditions. In most years, the winning score typically falls in the -10 to -15 range, reinforcing Augusta’s reputation as a course that demands elite approach play and precision rather than simply overpowering it. However, there have been notable outliers on both ends of the spectrum. Dustin Johnson set the tournament scoring record at -20 in 2020 when softer conditions made the course more accessible, while Zach Johnson won at +1 in 2007 in one of the toughest setups in recent memory. Despite those differences, the common thread remains consistent: success at The Masters almost always comes down to elite approach play, capitalizing on the par 5s, and minimizing mistakes on a course that punishes even the smallest missteps.

Recent champions and their scores to par are listed below:

• 2025 - Rory McIlroy (-11)

• 2024 - Scottie Scheffler (-11)

• 2023 - Jon Rahm (-12)

• 2022 - Scottie Scheffler (-10)

• 2021 - Hideki Matsuyama (-10)

• 2020 - Dustin Johnson (-20)

• 2019 - Tiger Woods (-13)

• 2018 - Patrick Reed (-15)

• 2017 - Sergio García (-9)

• 2016 - Danny Willett (-5)

• 2015 - Jordan Spieth (-18)

• 2014 - Bubba Watson (-8)

• 2013 - Adam Scott (-9)

• 2012 - Bubba Watson (-10)

• 2011 - Charl Schwartzel (-14)

• 2010 - Phil Mickelson (-16)

• 2009 - Ángel Cabrera (-12)

• 2008 - Trevor Immelman (-8)

• 2007 - Zach Johnson (+1)

• 2006 - Phil Mickelson (-7)

Early Weather Forecast

Thursday: Looks like the most volatile weather day of the tournament. In the morning, temperatures will start in the mid-to-upper 50s and climb toward the low 60s, but there is a high chance of precipitation (around 70-90%) with showers and possible thunderstorms moving through the area. Winds will also be a factor early, blowing 10–15 mph with gusts up to 20–25 mph, which could create difficult scoring conditions, especially for early tee times. By the afternoon, conditions should gradually improve as rain tapers off, with temperatures holding in the low-to-mid 60s. Winds may remain slightly elevated but should begin to settle, making the later wave potentially more playable as the course starts to dry out.

Friday: Sets up as a much more stable and favorable day. During the morning, temperatures will be cooler, starting in the mid-40s and rising into the 50s with little to no chance of precipitation (<5%). Winds will be light, generally around 5–10 mph, creating relatively calm scoring conditions early. In the afternoon, temperatures will peak in the mid-to-upper 60s under mostly sunny skies. Wind remains manageable, and overall this should be one of the more straightforward scoring days of the week with minimal weather interference.

Saturday: Appears to be the best weather day of the tournament. The morning will start comfortably in the low-to-mid 50s with clear skies and virtually no precipitation risk. Winds will remain light, generally under 10 mph, allowing players to attack pins early. By the afternoon, temperatures will climb into the upper 70s with abundant sunshine. Conditions will be ideal, warm, dry, and relatively calm, which should lead to increased scoring opportunities, particularly on the par 5s.

Sunday: Championship Sunday introduces a bit more uncertainty. In the morning, temperatures will begin in the upper 50s to low 60s with partly sunny skies and a low initial chance of precipitation (around 20% or less). Winds should remain light early, around 5-10 mph. However, in the afternoon, temperatures will rise to around the upper 70s, and there is an increasing chance of showers (30-40%), particularly later in the day. While winds are not expected to be overly strong, any incoming weather could impact club selection and create added pressure down the stretch if conditions deteriorate late.

Field Breakdown

The field at The Masters is, as always, one of the most elite and condensed in golf, placing a premium on win equity at the very top while elevating the importance of course history at Augusta National Golf Club. Augusta is a second-shot golf course that demands creativity, precision iron play, and an elite short game, which naturally narrows the pool of realistic contenders. Unlike standard PGA Tour events, the path to victory here is far more concentrated, with experience and comfort navigating Augusta’s nuances playing a critical role.

At the top of the field, players like Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy, and Jon Rahm headline the elite tier, all possessing the combination of current form and skill sets required to win at Augusta. Just behind them, names like Collin Morikawa and Xander Schauffele continue to profile as major championship staples, driven by world-class ball-striking and consistency. This upper tier represents the most likely winner, as Augusta historically rewards players who can gain strokes in all facets without a glaring weakness.

The next layer of the field is filled with legitimate contenders who bring both upside and some level of volatility. Rising stars like Ludvig Åberg and proven talents such as Viktor Hovland and Patrick Cantlay have the tee-to-green profiles to contend, while players like Max Homa and Jordan Spieth bring a mix of current form and course-specific upside. Spieth in particular stands out as a perennial Augusta threat, capable of contending regardless of form due to his creativity and short game.

Further down the board, Augusta specialists and high-upside value plays become key differentiators. Players like Hideki Matsuyama, Cameron Smith, and Will Zalatoris consistently outperform their baselines at this venue, while accurate ball-strikers such as Russell Henley and Corey Conners offer strong value profiles if the putter cooperates. Meanwhile, volatile but dynamic players like Min Woo Lee can provide tournament-winning upside in DFS and outright markets.

Rounding out the field are the veterans and LIV contingent, where uncertainty meets undeniable pedigree. Major champions like Brooks Koepka and Dustin Johnson still carry win equity based on experience and past success at Augusta. Overall, this is a field where elite ball-striking, experience, and composure converge, and where the eventual winner is far more likely to emerge from the top tier than in a typical full-field event.

Outright Betting Breakdown

Cameron Young +2400 (Boosted to +2700)

Coming in at number one in my model this week, I’m excited to have Cameron Young on my outright card at a major without it feeling like a shot in the dark. That confidence is driven by both his current form and the sense that he’s finally broken through at the PGA Tour level.

The lid is completely off following his first career win at the Wyndham Championship last season, and he’s carried that momentum seamlessly into 2026. Young is a perfect 6-for-6 in made cuts this year, highlighted by a T22 at the Farmers Insurance Open, T7 at The Genesis Invitational, T3 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and his second PGA Tour victory at The Players Championship. Simply put, his form couldn’t be much better. His history at Augusta National Golf Club is a bit volatile, with missed cuts in 2022 and 2025, but those are sandwiched around two top-10 finishes (T7 in 2023 and T9 in 2024), reinforcing that he has both the upside and experience to contend here.

From a skillset standpoint, Young checks all the boxes needed to succeed at Augusta. He’s one of the best drivers of the ball on Tour, combining elite distance with improved accuracy so far this season. His iron play, especially over his last three starts, has been dialed in, giving him a strong foundation tee-to-green. While his around-the-green play can be inconsistent at times, it still grades out above Tour average. The putter, long considered one of his strengths, started the season slowly but has heated up significantly over the past few weeks, which is an encouraging sign heading into this event.

Overall, there are plenty of strong options at the top of the board this week, and history tells us that’s typically where the winner at Augusta comes from. Young is the direction I’m taking, largely because of how he won The Players Championship. He played aggressively while staying composed under pressure, a combination that suggests he’s ready to take the next step and win a major.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 8th

• Off-the-Tee: 3rd

• Approach: 26th

• Around the Green: 69th

• Putting: 42nd

Brooks Koepka +5000

Brooks Koepka checks in at 25th in my model this week and stands out as one of the more intriguing options in the field, largely due to his unmatched major championship pedigree.

Koepka was one of the first players to return to the PGA Tour from LIV and remains one of the most polarizing figures in modern golf. What isn’t debatable, however, is his ability to rise to the occasion in the game’s biggest events. In his return to the PGA Tour this season, he’s 4-for-6 in made cuts with solid finishes including a T9 at the Cognizant Classic, T13 at The Players Championship, and a T18 at the Valspar Championship. His track record at Augusta National Golf Club is equally encouraging, 7-for-10 in made cuts with two top-5s, another top-10, and multiple additional top-25 finishes. He clearly checks two key boxes this week: respectable current form and strong course history.

From a statistical standpoint, Koepka has been excellent tee-to-green this season. He continues to bring elite distance off the tee, though accuracy can be inconsistent at times. His iron play has been a major strength, ranking among the best on Tour and looking particularly sharp in recent starts. As is often the case, his short game will ultimately determine his ceiling. He grades out around Tour average around the greens, but the putter can be volatile. That said, there are signs of improvement, as he’s gained strokes putting in two of his last four starts.

As always, Koepka’s appeal at The Masters comes down to his ability to elevate in major championships. A five-time major winner, he consistently finds another gear when the stakes are highest and will be motivated to finally add a green jacket to his résumé, one of the few accomplishments that has eluded him so far in his career.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 47th

• Off-the-Tee: 74th

• Approach: 3rd

• Around the Green: 71st

• Putting: 140th

Robert MacIntyre +5000

Robert MacIntyre comes in at 26th in my model this week, and while neither his odds nor his ranking jump off the page, he’s a player I consistently circle at The Masters. At this point, he’s someone I expect to have exposure to at Augusta for years to come given how well his game translates to this course.

I don’t love that he held the 54-hole lead last week at the Valero Texas Open and couldn’t convert, but overall his form remains encouraging. He’s posted strong results this season, including a fourth-place finish at The Players Championship, a T24 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and a T20 at The Genesis Invitational. His history at Augusta National Golf Club is solid as well, with a T12 in 2021 and T23 in 2022 before a missed cut in 2025. Like many of my preferred targets this week, he checks the key boxes of both current form and course history.

MacIntyre brings a well-rounded skillset that fits Augusta nicely. He’s been excellent off the tee this season, combining above-average distance and accuracy to rank among the stronger drivers on Tour. His approach play has been solid over the course of his career, though it has been a bit inconsistent this season, making it the key area that will likely determine his ceiling this week. Around the greens, he’s comfortably above Tour average, and he remains one of the better putters in the field, which is always a valuable asset at Augusta.

The “lefty at Augusta” narrative also works in his favor, and it’s not without merit given past success from left-handed players here. All things considered, MacIntyre checks a lot of boxes and stands out as a player further down the odds board who still carries legitimate win equity.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 13th

• Off-the-Tee: 9th

• Approach: 123rd

• Around the Green: 63rd

• Putting: 4th

Akshay Bhatia +6600

Akshay Bhatia comes in at 9th in my model this week and is another lefty I’ve added to my outright card. What stands out most about Bhatia in this market is his volatility, in a good way. His ceiling is slipping on the green jacket, while his floor is a quick missed cut, which is something I’m willing to embrace when chasing upside at The Masters.

He enters the week at Augusta National Golf Club in excellent form. While he’s coming off a missed cut at the Hero Indian Open on the DP World Tour, that result is a bit misleading as he missed the cut on the number and was penalized earlier in the week for playing the wrong ball, which ultimately proved costly. Prior to that, his form was outstanding, highlighted by a win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, along with a T13 at The Players Championship, T16 at The Genesis Invitational, T6 at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, and a T3 at the WM Phoenix Open. In limited Masters experience, he’s made the cut in both appearances, finishing T35 in 2024 and T42 in 2025.

From a skillset perspective, Bhatia is fairly average off the tee, lacking elite distance or accuracy, but he more than makes up for it with his iron play. He’s been phenomenal on approach this season and profiles as one of the best in the field in that category. Around the greens, he’s above average, and his move to the broomstick putter has unlocked another level in his short game, turning him into one of the better putters on Tour this season.

His recent win at the Arnold Palmer Invitational further solidified his status as one of the rising young players capable of taking the next step and winning a major. At his current number, the odds feel too long for a player with this combination of form and upside, making him an easy addition to my outright card this week.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 6th

• Off-the-Tee: 89th

• Approach: 8th

• Around the Green: 49th

• Putting: 9th

Min Woo Lee +6600 (Boosted to +9000)

Min Woo Lee comes in at number 7 in my model this week and, in my opinion, is a player whose game fits Augusta National Golf Club extremely well.

While a win has eluded him so far this season, Lee is playing some of the best golf of his career in 2026. He’s a perfect 7-for-7 in made cuts with several strong finishes, including a T2 at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am, T12 at The Genesis Invitational, T6 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and T3 at the Texas Children’s Houston Open. His Masters history is solid as well, making the cut in three of four appearances with a T14 in his debut in 2022, followed by finishes of T22 in 2024 and 49th in 2025. Like many of the players I’m targeting this week, he checks the key boxes of strong recent form and encouraging course history at The Masters.

From a skillset perspective, Lee is one of the more well-rounded players in the field. He’s elite off the tee, consistently gaining on the field with his distance while also being above Tour average in accuracy this season, an area that has been inconsistent at times throughout his career. His iron play is solid overall, but what stands out is his upside; when his approach game is dialed in, he can gain strokes in bunches, which is critical at Augusta. Around the greens, “Dr. Chipinski” lives up to the nickname, as he’s one of the best short-game players on Tour, pairing creativity with touch—two traits that are essential on these greens.

There’s a lot to like when it comes to Lee this week, and given that he sits at the longest odds among players on my outright card, he may be my strongest endorsement in the betting market. While results haven’t quite broken through into a win yet this season, everything points to a player on the verge, and it would not be surprising to see him break through in a major in a spot that suits him this well.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 5th

• Off-the-Tee: 6th

• Approach: 52nd

• Around the Green: 28th

• Putting: 27th

I personally structure my outright betting cards to target a minimum return of 10x my unit.  In practice, this means I risk a total of one unit across all selections, with each individual bet paying out 10 units if it wins.  For example, if my unit is $100, each outright selection would return $1,000.  This approach aligns with my risk tolerance and ensures that hitting one winner in every ten events allows me to at least break even.

This is simply the system that works best for me.  I strongly encourage everyone to develop an approach that aligns with their own bankroll, risk tolerance, and betting goals.

Daily Fantasy Sports Breakdown

This week, I’ll be writing up two players in each price range since it’s a major and many people are looking to build DFS lineups. Please note that the order of my first and second selections doesn’t necessarily indicate preference, I simply wanted to provide two options per price range for anyone looking to fill different spots in their lineups.

$10,000+ Price Range: Scottie Scheffler ($14,000)

Scottie Scheffler enters The Masters as the premier DFS option on the board and an ideal fit for Augusta National. A two-time champion (2022, 2024), Scheffler has consistently thrived at this course thanks to his elite ball-striking and ability to limit mistakes. Augusta is widely known as a second-shot golf course, and Scheffler’s dominance in Strokes Gained Tee-to-Green and Approach makes him uniquely suited to contend once again. His combination of precision iron play, strong short game, and composure around the greens allows him to avoid the big numbers that can derail even the best players at Augusta.

Scheffler’s 2026 form has remained strong, even if it hasn’t quite reached the peak of his dominant 2024 stretch. He has already recorded a win and multiple top-five finishes this season while making every cut, reinforcing both his consistency and high floor for DFS formats. Statistically, he continues to rate as one of the top players in the world, ranking near the top in Strokes Gained Total and leading the Tour in bogey avoidance, an especially valuable trait at Augusta where minimizing mistakes is critical. While putting has occasionally been viewed as a relative weakness, he has shown the ability to gain on the greens at this event, which is all he typically needs given his superiority tee-to-green.

From a DraftKings perspective, Scheffler will command one of the highest salaries on the slate and is expected to carry heavy ownership across all contest types. In cash games, he stands out as a foundational piece due to his unmatched combination of safety, consistency, and scoring ability, making him one of the most reliable anchors available. Fading him entirely is a risky strategy given his clear win equity and ability to separate from the field if his putter cooperates.

There are very few concerns when it comes to Scheffler this week, though it is worth noting he recently welcomed a child and briefly stepped away from competition, which could introduce a minor distraction. Additionally, his recent finishes, while still strong, have not been quite as dominant as his peak run. Even so, these are relatively small considerations when weighed against his overall profile. Ultimately, Scheffler offers the highest floor and ceiling combination in the field, making him the top overall DFS play this week.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 3rd

• Off-the-Tee: 12th

• Approach: 80th

• Around the Green: 3rd

• Putting: 20th

$10,000+ Price Range: Jon Rahm ($10,000)

Jon Rahm enters The Masters as one of the most dangerous high-end options on the DFS slate and a player whose skill set aligns extremely well with Augusta National. The 2023 Masters champion has proven he can handle the unique demands of this course, combining power off the tee with elite iron play and a strong short game. Rahm’s ability to gain strokes in all facets of the game makes him a prototypical Augusta contender, particularly given the emphasis on approach play, creativity around the greens, and capitalizing on scoring opportunities on the par 5s.

Rahm’s recent form has been somewhat more volatile compared to the elite consistency of Scottie Scheffler, but the upside remains undeniable. When Rahm is at his best, he is one of the few players in the world capable of gaining significant strokes both off the tee and on approach while also being a streaky but dangerous putter. That combination gives him legitimate winning equity any time he tees it up, and especially at a course where he has already found success. While his week-to-week results haven’t always reflected peak performance, his underlying metrics still point to a player capable of contending in a major championship setting.

From a DraftKings perspective, Rahm typically sits just below Scheffler in pricing but still firmly in the top tier, making roster construction a key consideration. He offers a slightly lower floor than Scheffler due to occasional inconsistency, but he makes up for it with comparable upside and the ability to post a tournament-winning score if everything clicks. Ownership is expected to be high but not quite at Scheffler levels, which may make Rahm an appealing pivot in tournaments for those looking to gain leverage while still rostering elite win equity. In cash formats, he remains a strong option, though not quite as safe as Scheffler given the wider range of outcomes.

There are a few minor concerns to consider, including some inconsistency in recent finishes and occasional volatility with the putter, which can impact his ability to fully capitalize on strong ball-striking weeks. However, those concerns are relatively small in the context of his overall profile. Rahm has already proven he can win at Augusta and has the complete game required to contend again this week. Ultimately, he profiles as one of the top tournament plays on the slate, offering elite upside, slightly reduced ownership relative to Scheffler, and a strong opportunity to differentiate lineups without sacrificing win potential.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: N/A

• Off-the-Tee: N/A

• Approach: N/A

• Around the Green: N/A

• Putting: N/A

$9,900 - $9,000 Price Range: Xander Schauffele ($9,600)

Xander Schauffele enters The Masters as one of the most reliable high-end DFS options, bringing a well-rounded skill set that consistently translates to success at major championships. While he has yet to secure a green jacket, Schauffele has an excellent track record at Augusta National with multiple top-10 finishes, showcasing his ability to navigate the course with precision and patience. His game is built on elite tee-to-green consistency, and he tends to avoid the big mistakes that can quickly derail rounds at Augusta, making him a strong fit for this demanding layout.

Schauffele’s 2026 form has remained steady, as he continues to be one of the most consistent players on Tour with frequent top-20 finishes and reliable cut-making. While he may not always flash the same win equity as players like Scottie Scheffler or Jon Rahm, he consistently puts himself in contention and capitalizes on scoring opportunities. Statistically, he grades out well across the board, particularly in Strokes Gained Tee-to-Green and Approach, both of which are critical metrics for success at Augusta. His short game and putting are also strengths, allowing him to maintain momentum and convert opportunities when in position.

From a DraftKings perspective, Schauffele typically falls just below the very top tier in pricing, making him an appealing option for balanced lineup builds. He offers one of the safest floors in the field due to his consistency and ability to avoid missed cuts, which makes him a strong option in cash games, even if he’s not the most likely winner. In tournaments, Schauffele often comes in at slightly lower ownership than the elite names above him, which adds to his appeal as a leverage play. While his ceiling may be perceived as slightly lower, his ability to post a top-5 finish while avoiding disaster rounds keeps him firmly in play for GPP formats.

There are a few minor concerns, most notably his tendency to hover around contention without always converting those opportunities into victories, which can limit his true ceiling in large-field tournaments. However, his consistency, strong course history, and balanced statistical profile make him one of the safest and most dependable plays on the board. Ultimately, Schauffele profiles as an ideal cornerstone for balanced builds, offering a high floor with enough upside to be part of a winning lineup if he can finally break through at Augusta.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 11th

• Off-the-Tee: 32nd

• Approach: 15th

• Around the Green: 79th

• Putting: 38th

$9,900 - $9,000 Price Range: Patrick Reed ($9,000)

Patrick Reed enters The Masters as a compelling mid-to-upper tier DFS option, particularly given his strong history at Augusta National and reputation as one of the best short-game players in the field. The 2018 Masters champion has consistently performed well at this event, racking up multiple top-10 finishes throughout his career. Reed’s game is uniquely suited for Augusta, as he relies less on overpowering the course and more on elite scrambling, creativity around the greens, and the ability to hole putts under pressure, key traits that tend to separate contenders from the rest of the field.

Reed’s recent form can be somewhat inconsistent compared to the elite players at the top of the board, but he has shown flashes of upside, particularly in strong-field events. While his ball-striking, especially off the tee, can be volatile at times, he often makes up for it with one of the best short games in professional golf. His ability to gain strokes around the green and with the putter makes him particularly dangerous at Augusta, where missed greens are inevitable and recovery play is critical. When Reed finds even an average level with his irons, he becomes a legitimate contender given how much he can separate with his short game.

From a DraftKings perspective, Reed typically sits in a range that makes him an appealing option for both balanced builds and stars-and-scrubs lineups. He offers a slightly lower floor than more consistent ball-strikers due to his volatility off the tee, but his course history and short-game prowess provide significant upside relative to his price. Ownership is usually moderate, making him an intriguing tournament play, especially for those looking to target players with proven Augusta success who may go slightly overlooked. In cash games, he is a viable option but carries more risk than similarly priced players who rely more heavily on consistent tee-to-green play.

There are a few clear concerns to keep in mind, primarily centered around his inconsistency off the tee and with his approach play, which can lead to difficult scoring situations if his short game isn’t firing at an elite level. However, Augusta National is one of the few venues where Reed’s strengths can fully offset those weaknesses. Ultimately, he profiles as a high-variance but high-upside DFS option this week one who can contend for a top finish or even a win if his irons cooperate, making him an excellent GPP target with proven Masters pedigree.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: N/A

• Off-the-Tee: N/A

• Approach: N/A

• Around the Green: N/A

• Putting: N/A

$8,900 - $8,000 Price Range: Matt Fitzpatrick ($8,700)

Matt Fitzpatrick enters The Masters as a strong mid-tier DFS option whose well-rounded game and steady temperament make him a solid fit for Augusta National. While he doesn’t have the same dominant course history as some of the elite names, Fitzpatrick has shown the ability to navigate Augusta effectively, relying on precision, course management, and one of the better short games in the field. His skill set aligns well with the demands of the course, particularly his touch around the greens and ability to limit mistakes, both of which are critical for sustained success at Augusta.

Fitzpatrick’s recent form has been fairly steady, as he continues to string together made cuts and respectable finishes. He may not carry the same win equity as the very top players, but he consistently positions himself well by avoiding big numbers and capitalizing on scoring opportunities when they arise. Statistically, Fitzpatrick tends to grade out strongest in areas like putting and around-the-green play, while his approach numbers can be more variable. However, when his irons are dialed in, he has shown the ability to contend in strong fields, as evidenced by his past success in major championships.

From a DraftKings perspective, Fitzpatrick typically falls into a pricing range that makes him a valuable piece for balanced roster construction. He offers a relatively stable floor due to his consistency and ability to grind out pars when needed, which makes him a reasonable option in cash formats. In tournaments, his appeal comes from his potential to outperform his price point if his approach play spikes for the week. Ownership is often moderate, allowing him to serve as a useful pivot in lineup builds that aim to differentiate without sacrificing too much stability.

There are some limitations to consider, primarily his reliance on putting and short game to drive his results, which can introduce some week-to-week volatility if those areas don’t perform at a high level. Additionally, his approach play is not always as sharp as the elite ball-strikers in this field, which can cap his ceiling in a tournament that often rewards elite iron play. That said, Fitzpatrick’s composure, major championship experience, and ability to avoid mistakes keep him firmly in play. Ultimately, he profiles as a balanced DFS option with a solid floor and enough upside to contribute to a winning lineup if his irons cooperate.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 7th

• Off-the-Tee: 19th

• Approach: 7th

• Around the Green: 25th

• Putting: 96th

$8,900 - $8,000 Price Range: Jordan Spieth ($8,400)

Jordan Spieth enters The Masters as one of the most intriguing and volatile DFS options on the slate, largely due to his unmatched course history and comfort level at Augusta National. The 2015 Masters champion has been a perennial contender at this event throughout his career, piling up multiple top finishes and consistently putting himself in the mix regardless of his form entering the week. Augusta clearly suits Spieth’s eye, as his creativity, imagination, and elite putting allow him to navigate the course in ways that few others can.

Spieth’s recent form has been somewhat inconsistent, which has become a recurring theme in recent seasons. He has shown flashes of high-end upside with strong finishes, but those performances are often mixed with erratic stretches, particularly off the tee. His driving accuracy can be a significant concern, as wayward tee shots can lead to trouble even at a course where recovery is possible. However, Spieth’s elite short game and putting ability frequently bail him out, and at Augusta, where scrambling and putting are critical, those strengths are amplified. When his irons are dialed in, he has proven time and again that he can contend for the win here.

From a DraftKings perspective, Spieth typically falls into a mid-to-upper tier price range, making him an appealing tournament option with clear upside. His volatility makes him a riskier play in cash games compared to more consistent ball-strikers, but it is that same volatility that gives him GPP-winning potential. Ownership often comes in at moderate to high levels due to his popularity and course history, but he can still provide leverage depending on roster construction, especially if the field leans more heavily toward safer options.

There are clear risks to consider, primarily centered around his inconsistency off the tee and occasional struggles with approach play, which can put added pressure on his short game. If those issues compound, it can lead to big numbers that hurt DFS scoring. However, Spieth’s track record at Augusta suggests that he is uniquely capable of overcoming those weaknesses at this venue. Ultimately, he profiles as a high-risk, high-reward DFS option this week, one who can just as easily contend for a win as he can fall out of contention, making him best suited for tournaments where his ceiling can truly pay off.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 33rd

• Off-the-Tee: 99th

• Approach: 33rd

• Around the Green: 57th

• Putting: 56th

$7,900 - $7,000 Price Range: Si Woo Kim ($7,800)

Si Woo Kim enters The Masters as an intriguing mid-range DFS option with a skill set that can translate well to Augusta National, particularly when his ball-striking is dialed in. While his course history at Augusta has been somewhat inconsistent, he has shown flashes of strong play, including made cuts and competitive finishes. Kim’s game is built on precision iron play and the ability to gain strokes on approach, which is a critical component for success at Augusta, where second-shot performance often dictates leaderboard position.

Kim’s recent form has been relatively steady, as he continues to make cuts and post respectable finishes on Tour. He may not carry the same level of win equity as higher-priced players, but he has demonstrated the ability to spike with strong ball-striking weeks. Statistically, he tends to grade out well in Strokes Gained Approach, which gives him a solid foundation for success at a course that demands precision into the greens. However, his performance can be more volatile when it comes to putting, as he has historically been inconsistent on the greens, which can limit his ability to fully capitalize on birdie opportunities.

From a DraftKings perspective, Kim typically falls into a mid-tier price range that makes him a useful option for lineup flexibility. He offers a reasonable balance of floor and upside, particularly in tournaments where his ownership is often moderate to low compared to more popular names in the same range. His ability to gain strokes with his irons gives him a path to outperform his salary, especially if he can pair that with even an average putting performance. In cash games, he is a viable but somewhat riskier option due to his putting volatility, which can lead to inconsistent scoring.

There are a few concerns to keep in mind, most notably his inconsistency on the greens and somewhat uneven course history at Augusta. If the putter runs cold, it can be difficult for him to keep pace with the field, even if his ball-striking is solid. Additionally, he does not possess the same level of scoring upside as elite players, which can cap his ceiling in large-field tournaments. That said, Kim’s strong approach play and overall talent make him a viable DFS option this week. Ultimately, he profiles as a mid-tier GPP target who can outperform his price point if his irons lead the way and his putter cooperates just enough to convert opportunities.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 18th

• Off-the-Tee: 15th

• Approach: 3rd

• Around the Green: 54th

• Putting: 132nd

$7,900 - $7,000 Price Range: Jacob Bridgeman ($7,400)

Jacob Bridgeman enters The Masters as a true value-tier DFS option and one of the more unknown commodities in the field, making him an interesting punt play for large-field tournaments. As a relative newcomer to the PGA Tour and Augusta National, Bridgeman lacks the course history and experience that typically correlates with success at The Masters. However, that inexperience is also factored into his suppressed salary, opening the door for him to outperform expectations if he can lean on his strengths and handle the moment.

Bridgeman’s recent form has shown some encouraging signs, particularly with his ball-striking, as he has flashed the ability to gain strokes off the tee and on approach in spurts. Like many younger players, his performances can be inconsistent from week to week, but the underlying upside is evident when his iron play is working. Augusta is a course that heavily rewards strong approach play, so if Bridgeman can find a rhythm with his irons, he has a path to making the cut and returning value at a low price point. His short game and putting remain less proven at this level, which introduces some additional volatility, especially at a course where those areas are critical.

From a DraftKings perspective, Bridgeman sits near the bottom of the pricing spectrum, making him a classic stars-and-scrubs enabler. He is unlikely to carry significant ownership given his lack of name recognition and experience, which makes him appealing as a differentiation play in large-field GPPs. The primary goal when rostering a player in this range is simply making the cut, and Bridgeman has shown enough flashes statistically to suggest that outcome is within reach if he can put together a complete week.

There are clear risks associated with this play, most notably his lack of experience at Augusta, the increased pressure of a major championship environment, and his overall inconsistency at the PGA Tour level. Without a reliable short game or proven track record in elite fields, his floor is quite low, and a missed cut is a very real possibility. Ultimately, Bridgeman profiles as a high-risk, high-variance DFS punt option this week, best reserved for tournaments where his low ownership and potential to exceed salary-based expectations can help differentiate lineups and unlock higher-priced stars.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 2nd

• Off-the-Tee: 51st

• Approach: 25th

• Around the Green: 111th

• Putting: 1st

$6,900 - $6,000 Price Range: Kurt Kitayama ($6,800)

Kurt Kitayama enters The Masters as a mid-range DFS option with an intriguing blend of upside and volatility, making him a strong tournament target for those looking to differentiate lineups. While his course history at Augusta National is limited, his overall skill set, particularly his ball-striking, gives him a pathway to success on a course that heavily rewards strong tee-to-green play. Kitayama has proven he can compete in elite fields, highlighted by his ability to contend and win against top-tier competition, which is always an encouraging signal when evaluating players for a major championship.

Kitayama’s recent form tends to be somewhat inconsistent, but that has been a common theme throughout his career. When he is playing well, he gains strokes both off the tee and on approach, giving him the ability to create birdie opportunities in bunches. His aggressive style can be a double-edged sword, however, as it can also lead to mistakes and bogeys if his ball-striking is slightly off. Statistically, his strengths lie in his ability to generate scoring chances through strong iron play, though his short game and putting can be more volatile, which adds to his week-to-week unpredictability.

From a DraftKings perspective, Kitayama typically falls into a pricing range that makes him an appealing GPP option, particularly for builds that prioritize upside over safety. He offers a lower floor than more consistent players in this range due to his volatility, which makes him a less attractive option for cash games. However, his ability to spike with a top-10 or better finish makes him valuable in large-field tournaments, especially if his ownership remains moderate or low compared to similarly priced options.

There are some clear concerns, primarily his inconsistency and lack of extensive experience at Augusta, which can be a difficult course to learn quickly. Additionally, if his short game struggles, it can be difficult for him to recover from missed greens, which are inevitable at this venue. That said, Kitayama’s upside is undeniable when his ball-striking is clicking. Ultimately, he profiles as a high-variance, high-upside DFS play this week, best suited for tournaments where his ability to outperform his price point and separate from the field can provide meaningful leverage.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 53rd

• Off-the-Tee: 55th

• Approach: 11th

• Around the Green: 126th

• Putting: 117th

$6,900 - $6,000 Price Range: Sam Stevens ($6,400)

Sam Stevens comes into The Masters as a longer‑shot, value‑oriented DFS option. He hasn’t yet played the Masters, so there’s no course history to lean on, but he’s carved out a solid PGA Tour career with flashes of upside in recent seasons. After graduating from the Korn Ferry Tour and breaking into the top 75 in the Official World Golf Ranking thanks to runner‑up finishes (including at the Farmers Insurance Open), Stevens has shown he can hang with quality competition and post strong results when his game is clicking.

This season’s results for Stevens have been mixed, with a solid tie for sixth at The American Express early in the year, a T16 at Riviera, and a few made cuts punctuated by a missed cut at Bay Hill. His underlying Strokes Gained profile indicates he’s capable off the tee and around the green, though his putting has been a relative weakness. Overall metrics suggest modest total strokes gained that sit slightly above average when viewed across multiple events, but not at elite levels.

From a DraftKings perspective, Stevens will likely come in near the bottom of the pricing tier simply due to his relative lack of proven performance compared to the top tier stars. That low salary gives him value as a punt play, especially in GPP formats where rostering lower‑owned players with breakout potential can pay off if they simply make the cut. Stevens’ upside week hinges on him finding enough ball‑striking rhythm to stay patient over four rounds and avoid big numbers; if he does, he could easily outperform his salary by putting together a few solid rounds. However, a greater chance of volatility and limited track record in major conditions make him a riskier play in cash games, where consistency and making the weekend are more valuable.

The key concerns for Stevens are his relatively modest experience in elite fields, limited major championship resumé, and a lack of proven Augusta performance (both of which can make scoring and course strategy more challenging). But because his price will be one of the lower ones on DraftKings and his ownership is likely to trail the field, he’s a classic high‑variance, high‑upside tournament dart throw—a player who could surprise with a solid weekend but should be used sparingly outside of leverage builds.

2026 PGA Tour Strokes Rankings:

• Total: 38th

• Off-the-Tee: 20th

• Approach: 45th

• Around the Green: 84th

• Putting: 114th

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