Sleeper Picks That Could Shake Up the Rocket Classic Leaderboard

🌟 Rocket Classic Sleeper Picks: Who Might Surprise in Motown? 🏌️

As the PGA TOUR heads to Detroit Golf Club for the 2025 Rocket Classic, all the buzz surrounds top contenders. But in a tournament where low scores dominate, savvy bettors and golf fans know that sleepers often make headlines. Think Cam Davis last year, who clinched the title at +6600 odds!

Here are some of the most promising sleeper picks who could deliver strong value—and maybe even shock the leaderboard.

🔥 Outright Win Pick: Stephan Jaeger (+7000)

Why He’s Dangerous:
Jaeger is no stranger to Detroit GC’s forgiving fairways and scoring potential. He posted a solo 5th in 2022 and a T9 in 2023, and though he hasn't strung together top-35s in 2025, he’s quietly notched three top 10s and five top 20s. He already has a win under his belt at the Houston Open, and his putting can catch fire in a shootout setting.

Bottom line: If Jaeger sharpens his iron play, he could be this year’s Cam Davis.

🏅 Top 5 Bet: Chris Gotterup (+850)

Why He’s Worth a Look:
Gotterup is long off the tee, dialed in with his approaches, and comes in hot with five top 25s in his last seven starts, including a strong T23 at the U.S. Open. His consistency is finally matching his raw talent, and he’s 2-for-2 at Detroit, giving him valuable course familiarity.

Perfect profile for a Top 5 finish on this aggressive layout.

🔟 Top 10 Bet: Quade Cummins (+1000)

Rookie on the Rise:
Cummins is still looking for his first career top-10 on the PGA TOUR, but he’s close. Ranked 135th in the FedExCup, he enters with momentum from a T4 on the Korn Ferry Tour, highlighted by 22 birdies and a dazzling 62. This week’s birdie-heavy environment gives him a real shot to break through.

💥 Top 20 Bet: Jake Knapp (+270)

Explosive Upside:
Knapp owns the lowest round of 2025 (a 59!) and ranks third on TOUR in converting birdie opportunities. After sitting T19 through 54 holes last year at Detroit GC, he’s returning with a score to settle. He also just posted a T6 after 3 rounds at the RBC Canadian Open, proving his game is trending upward.

Don’t be surprised if Knapp leaps into the top 20—or better.

🌍 Top African Player: Thriston Lawrence (+260)

The Smart Value Pick:
While Van Rooyen and Potgieter have struggled recently, Lawrence arrives fresh off a T12 at the U.S. Open and a T4 at the Soudal Open. After recalibrating on the DP World Tour, he’s back with confidence. Among a tight field of fellow South Africans, he stands out as the most in-form option.

💬 Final Thoughts:
Sleepers aren’t long shots—they’re strategic opportunities. With Detroit’s generous layout and emphasis on aggressive play, players like Jaeger, Gotterup, and Knapp are primed to outplay their odds. If you love following rising stars and calculated risks, this week’s Rocket Classic is your perfect playground.

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TheGolfGear Blog