As golf fans finally catch their breath after the thrilling finish at the U.S. Open, the scene shifts from North Carolina to Cromwell, Connecticut. The private jets have landed, and it's time for another big event on the PGA Tour: The Travelers Championship. This tournament always draws huge crowds, and the players love it, even though many of them could probably use a break.

 

 

 

But on the PGA Tour, there's no such thing as downtime. We've got a select group of players this week, and they're in for a totally different experience at TPC River Highlands. It's hard to think of a course more different from Pinehurst No. 2. Even so, everyone knows what to expect at the Travelers Championship. The course has had a few tweaks in recent years, but we all know the basic setup.

Travelers Championship 2024

The Travelers Championship has been around since 1952, starting out as the Insurance City Open at Wethersfield Country Club before moving to TPC River Highlands in 1983. Over the years, it's given us some unforgettable moments, like Arnold Palmer's win in 1956 and Phil Mickelson's back-to-back victories in 2001 and 2002. It's also been a springboard for new stars, with Jordan Spieth's incredible bunker shot to win in 2017 being one of the most memorable finishes.

Travelers has been the title sponsor since 2007, making sure this tournament stays a top event on the tour. Their support has helped bring in top players year after year. As the action heats up this week, fans can expect more exciting golf and a celebration of everything we love about the game.

 

 

 

TPC River Highlands: Course Breakdown

TPC River Highlands, originally the Middletown Golf Club when it opened in 1928, got its current name in 1984. Architect Pete Dye designed the layout, with Bobby Weed and Howard Twitty updating it in 1989 to make it tougher for the pros at the Travelers Championship.

Though it’s one of the shortest courses on the PGA Tour, TPC River Highlands demands precision. Staying in the fairway is crucial, as Jim Furyk showed with his record-breaking 58 in 2016. The course got another facelift before the 2016 Travelers Championship, with all bunkers redone to add steep grass faces, making them harder to escape.

Despite its length, TPC River Highlands ranks as the 25th most challenging course on the tour. It features five holes with water, 69 bunkers, and thick rough around the greens. The small, receptive greens reward accurate shots from the fairway.

The two Par 5s are reachable for all players if they find the fairway, but longer drives face narrower landing areas. The course suits both power hitters like Bubba Watson and precision players who focus on accuracy and course management.

Success at the Travelers Championship often hinges on driving accuracy and strong iron play from 125-175 yards. The small greens mean hitting a high number of greens in regulation offers many birdie chances, while solid short game skills are crucial due to the challenging rough and bunkers.

 

 

 

2024 Travelers Championship Field 

Scottie Scheffler, the world’s No. 1 golfer, is looking to bounce back at the Travelers Championship after a tough run, including five consecutive over-par rounds and a T4 finish last season. Despite this, Scheffler, with five wins this season, still tops many key stats on the TOUR.

Keegan Bradley is aiming to become the first golfer since Phil Mickelson (2001-02) to win back-to-back at the Travelers. Bradley has had a solid year with two runner-up finishes, including a close playoff loss at the Sony Open.

World No. 2 Xander Schauffele, the 2022 champ at TPC River Highlands and this year’s PGA Championship winner, has 11 top-10 finishes this season, making him one to watch.

The Travelers Championship is packed with top talent, including Rory McIlroy, Viktor Hovland, Ludvig Åberg, Collin Morikawa, Patrick Cantlay, and Max Homa. The 69-player field has no cut and features stars like Hideki Matsuyama, Jason Day, and Sungjae Im.

Michael Thorbjornsen is making his pro debut, having finished No. 1 in PGA TOUR University rankings and fourth at the Travelers in 2022. Other sponsor exemptions include Adam Scott, Webb Simpson, and Billy Horschel.

As the final Signature Event of the season, players like Robert MacIntyre, Shane Lowry, and Justin Thomas are in the mix, and with the Presidents Cup in Montreal coming up, the competition is fierce.

 

 

 

PGA Stats To Know: 2024 Travelers Championship

Strokes Gained: Approach - Targets

  • Scottie Scheffler - 1st on Tour
  • Corey Conners - 2nd on Tour
  • Tony Finau - 3rd on Tour
  • Tom Hoge - 4th on Tour
  • Xander Schauffele - 5th on Tour

Total Driving - Targets

  • Ludvig Aberg - 3rd on Tour
  • Scottie Scheffler - 5th on Tour
  • Xander Schauffele - 6th on Tour
  • Jordan Spieth - 7th on Tour
  • Sam Burns - 8th on Tour

Strokes Gained: Putting - Targets

  • Denny McCarthy - 2nd on Tour
  • Billy Horschel - 4th on Tour
  • Taylor Pendrith - 5th on Tour
  • Harris English - 6th on Tour
  • Thomas Detry - 7th on Tour

Best Course History

  • Keegan Bradley - 1 Win, 2 Top 10s & 2 Top 20s (5 of last 7 Cuts)
  • Brian Harman - 6 Top 10s (5 of his 6 Cuts)
  • Xander Schauffele - 1 Win & 3 Top 20s (4 of 5 Cuts)
  • Patrick Cantlay - Top 5 & 5 Top 15s (6 of last 6 Cuts)
  • Justin Thomas - 2 Top 10s (4 of last 6 Cuts)

My Best Bets (29-58 Overall, -11.05 Units)

  • Patrick Cantlay - Top 10 (+190)
  • Sepp Straka - Top 20 (+125)
  • Brian Harman - Top 20 (+125)
  • Shane Lowry - Top 20 (+190)

One & Done Play

  • Tony Finau

 

 

 

PGA DFS Picks: U.S. Open 2024

Top-Price DFS 2024 Travelers Championship

Xander Schauffele ($11,200)

Xander Schauffele won here two years ago, breaking a long dry spell. He's been playing well lately, finishing in the top 10 at the U.S. Open last week. Since he wasn’t in contention on Sunday, he shouldn't be too fatigued for this tournament.

With Rory McIlroy out, Schauffele now leads the field in Strokes Gained: Off-the-Tee over the past 24 rounds, showcasing his strong driving skills. But he’s not just good off the tee; he’s solid all around, from iron play to putting.

Turning pro in 2015, Schauffele has collected several PGA Tour wins and consistently performs well in major championships. Known for his calm and strategic play, he's one of the tour's most reliable players. Heading into this tournament, Schauffele’s recent form and versatile game suggest he's ready to make another big impact and possibly secure another win.

Ludvig Aberg ($10,200)

Ludvig Aberg didn't have his best showing at Pinehurst over the weekend, but I’m optimistic he'll bounce back at TPC River Highlands. Aberg has proven himself on shorter, positional courses. Despite his recent struggles, his track record suggests he's ready for a strong performance this week.

Last fall, he won at Sea Island, a course that demands precision. This year, he also competed at Pebble Beach, TPC Sawgrass, and Harbour Town—venues that favor elite wedge play and putting over distance. These results highlight his ability to excel on strategic courses.

Since turning pro, Aberg has quickly made a name for himself on the PGA Tour. Known for his calm demeanor and tactical approach, he competes at a high level consistently. His strong wedge play and putting make him a serious contender on courses where distance isn't key.

As he heads into TPC River Highlands, Aberg is well-positioned for a comeback.

Patrick Cantlay ($9,600)

Patrick Cantlay had an outstanding showing at the U.S. Open last week, excelling in all four major categories and achieving his best-ever finish in a major. Now, he's back at one of his favorite courses, where he has a strong track record. In nine appearances, he's secured seven top-25 finishes, including fourth place last year. Cantlay is definitely due for a win, and his game is hitting its stride at the perfect time.

Cantlay’s journey on the PGA Tour has been marked by resilience and steady progress, overcoming significant challenges like a serious back injury. Known for his precise ball-striking, strong putting, and calm demeanor, he’s become a top contender.

His recent form, especially at the U.S. Open, shows he's ready to compete at the highest level. With his game in great shape and a solid history at this course, Cantlay is poised for a breakthrough victory this week.

 

 

 

Mid-Price DFS 2024 Travelers Championship Picks

Russell Henley ($8,600)

Russell Henley is on fire lately, ticking all the boxes week after week. It's crazy he's still priced at just $8,600—definitely going to be a popular pick. He nailed the putting game at Pinehurst, which used to be his weak spot, so he's really leveled up there.

At this course, he's been solid with two 19th place finishes in a row and a best of T6 back in 2018. He knows the layout well, and with his current form, he's looking set for another strong showing.

Since going pro in 2011, Henley's been a consistent force on the PGA Tour, snagging three wins. His accuracy off the tee and strong iron play, combined with his newfound putting skills, make him a serious contender.

With his recent form and past success, Henley's definitely someone to keep an eye on. Another win could be just around the corner for him.

Brian Harman ($8,300)

Brian Harman's a legend at TPC River Highlands, scoring six top-10 finishes in 12 tries, including three in a row. He's like a pro on this course.

He did solid at the U.S. Open with a 21st place and really shined at TPC Sawgrass this season, showing he's got skills on these strategic courses.

Since going pro in 2009, Harman’s been all about accuracy and a killer short game, racking up two PGA Tour wins and tons of top-10 finishes. His precision and smart play make him a tough competitor.

As the Reigning Champion Golfer of the Year, Harman brings experience and confidence. With his track record at TPC River Highlands, expect him to keep the momentum going strong in Hartford. Everyone's pumped to see him work his magic on this challenging course.

Sepp Straka ($7,900)

Sepp Straka looks like a good match for TPC River Highlands, especially after his solid ball-striking at the U.S. Open. His short game struggled at Pinehurst, but he should handle the greens better here. His accurate driving and strong wedge play will be key.

Straka’s done well at TPC Deere Run, TPC Sawgrass, and Harbour Town, showing he thrives on tricky courses. He placed T5 at Deere Run, proving he’s comfortable with precision courses. His performances at Sawgrass and Harbour Town also show his adaptability.

Since turning pro, Straka’s been improving steadily, with wins and consistent play. Known for his smart strategy and strong iron shots, he’s a real contender.

Going into TPC River Highlands, Straka’s recent form and track record make him a solid bet. With his all-around skills and competitive spirit, he’s someone to watch for a strong finish this week. Fans are eager to see if he can keep up the momentum!

 

 

 

Value-Price DFS 2024 Travelers Championship Picks

Denny McCarthy ($7,500)

Denny McCarthy really turned things around here last year after struggling for five years, finishing strong at seventh place and showing off his putting skills. The shorter course layout should play to his strengths, despite his decent 32nd-place finish at Pinehurst last week.

Known for his sharp putting game, McCarthy doesn’t let course length hold him back; he's accurate and consistent. Since going pro in 2015, he's gotten better and better, with multiple top-10 finishes under his belt.

McCarthy's meticulous about his putting and always working on his game. With his recent breakthrough and solid play, he’s all set for another big showing. He's confident and ready to build on last year's success, keeping his momentum going strong on tour.

Michael Thorbjornsen ($6,500)

Michael Thorbjornsen should be pretty rested, probably the freshest guy out there. This will be his third time playing at River Highlands, and he made a splash tying for fourth when he was just 20.

He hasn't played much outside college golf this year, except for a solid tie for 11th at the DP World Tour event in Dubai back in January.

Thorbjornsen burst onto the scene by winning the U.S. Junior Amateur Championship in 2018 at only 16 years old. Since then, he's been balancing college golf at Stanford with occasional pro tournaments, showing he's got potential to make waves in both worlds.

Keep an eye on him as he continues to grow and adjust to the pro scene. His early success suggests he could be a rising star on the PGA Tour.

Adam Svensson ($6,400)

Adam Svensson is quietly becoming known for his solid ball-striking on the PGA Tour, especially after a strong showing at Pinehurst where he's been gaining over a stroke tee-to-green for six straight events. While his putting can be a bit shaky, he's got too much potential to ignore in the $6,000 range.

Originally from Canada, Svensson started young in golf and has steadily climbed the ranks with his focused approach. His progress shows his commitment to improving all aspects of his game. With his strong ball-striking and ongoing improvements, he's set to build on his recent success and make waves in upcoming tournaments. Keep an eye on him for more breakthrough moments on tour!

Player Pool

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