Three players are being tipped as potential sleeper picks at the CJ CUP Byron Nelson.
Phillips’ Texas Form
Chandler Phillips is one of the touted players. He was previously endorsed for a top 40 finish at the Valero Texas Open. The reasoning is simple: Phillips is a Texan. He recorded a top 20 at TPC San Antonio seven weeks ago, just as he did there a year ago, and a few weeks later at TPC Craig Ranch.
His skills include accuracy off the tee and putting. He is equipped to score and comfortable when the wind blows in his home state.
Springer’s Consistent Performances
Hayden Springer is also mentioned as a possible contender. He is 3-for-3 on the PGA TOUR, with all performances landing him inside the top 30. He had a co-runner-up finish with partner Alex Smalley at the Zurich Classic of New Orleans.
Springer has also played on the Korn Ferry Tour, achieving a pair of top 20s and ranking fifth in Strokes Gained: Tee-to-Green. After a hot start at final qualifying for the U.S. Open in Dallas on Monday, he finished one stroke outside the playoff for the final berth into the major. He has already reacclimated himself to competition in the area to resume sanctioned action.
Stanger’s Return From Injury
Jimmy Stanger successfully navigated the 36-hole sprint on Monday at Dallas Athletic Club to qualify for his first career major. Prior to U.S. Open final qualifying, he delivered a top 40 in four of his last six starts. He can thank a reliable putter that has him perched atop the PGA TOUR in conversion percentage from 4-8 feet and three-putt avoidance.
Stanger has four starts remaining on a Major Medical Extension to clear the hurdle at THE CJ CUP, where he’d need a solo fourth-place finish.
Odds were sourced at DraftKings.