Power Rankings: Rocket Mortgage Classic
The conclusion of the Travelers Championship has paved the way for the Rocket Mortgage Classic, kicking off a critical stretch of Full-Field competition with six events over the next seven weeks. Detroit Golf Club hosts the sixth edition of this tournament, offering players a chance to fine-tune their game and secure spots for the FedExCup Playoffs.
Power Rankings
1. Tom Kim (KOR)
- Tom Kim has been on a relentless nine-week road trip, showcasing his stamina and focus. His recent performances, including a playoff loss and a T4 in Canada, highlight his readiness to contend.
2. Cameron Young (USA)
- Fresh off a third-round 59 at the Travelers Championship and a T9 finish, Young is in top form. He aims to improve upon his previous runner-up finish at this event in 2022.
3. Stephan Jaeger (GER)
- Jaeger has been consistent with top 25 finishes since his win in Houston. His history at this tournament includes top 10 finishes in the last two editions, making him a strong contender.
4. Taylor Pendrith (CAN)
- The CJ CUP Byron Nelson champion has been piecing together an impressive season. His solid record in Detroit, including a T2 and T14, and recent form make him a top pick.
5. Aaron Rai (ENG)
- Rai's ball-striking ability and recent form, with a T4 and consistent top 25 finishes, put him in a prime position to challenge for the title.
6. Akshay Bhatia (USA)
- Bhatia's recent T5 at the Travelers Championship reflects his stellar season, which includes a victory and multiple top 25 finishes. His current world ranking of 29th is a career-best.
7. Alex Noren (SWE)
- Despite cooling off recently, Noren's previous performances in Detroit (T4 and T9) and a series of top 25 finishes earlier this year make him a strong contender.
8. Robert MacIntyre (SCO)
- MacIntyre's inspiring win at the RBC Canadian Open and a T16 at the Travelers Championship extend his streak of top 20 finishes, making him one to watch.
9. Keith Mitchell (USA)
- Known for his inconsistent performances, Mitchell's class shines through when he is on form. A T10 in Canada and a rested period make him a sleeper pick.
10. Davis Thompson (USA)
- Thompson's recent T9 at the U.S. Open and overall strong form position him as a dark horse for the Rocket Mortgage Classic. His previous T24 finish here shows he can handle the course.
11. Sam Stevens (USA)
- Stevens has been on a roll with top 15 finishes across tours, showcasing his ability to stay competitive. His recent T2 on the Korn Ferry Tour adds to his confidence.
12. Min Woo Lee (AUS)
- Lee's aggressive play style suits Detroit Golf Club. His consistent finishes between T21-T26 make him a lurking threat in his tournament debut.
13. Chris Kirk (USA)
- Kirk's track record at this event (four top 25s) and his solid performances this season, including a win and multiple top 20s, indicate a strong potential for a high finish.
14. Ryan Fox (NZL)
- Fox's debut in Detroit is anticipated to be strong given his recent form, including multiple top 10 finishes. His putting prowess will be crucial on these greens.
15. Rickie Fowler (USA)
- The defending champion needs to recapture his magic from last year. A recent T20 at the Travelers Championship suggests he is finding his form again.
Course Insights
Detroit Golf Club, a stock par 72 stretching 7,370 yards, is known for its low scoring. The course is relatively easy from tee to green, with Poa annua greens playing at 12-1/2 feet on the Stimpmeter. Players must hit greens and sink putts to score well. The weather forecast suggests mostly calm conditions with a potential for rain and storms during Saturday's third round.
Expect a competitive tournament where going low is essential to stay in contention.
