The PGA Tour returns to Minnesota this week for the 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities. The event features a prize pool of $8.8 million and includes world No. 1 Scottie Scheffler as the headliner. Kurt Kitayama, the reigning champion, is also part of the field, alongside young talents such as Jackson Koivun, Ben James, and Gordon Sargent, who have shown strong performances this summer.
Scheffler is set to play in the 3M Open for the first time in his career. His participation was confirmed after clearing Friday’s commitment deadline, making it highly probable he will compete unless an unforeseen circumstance arises. This marks a notable development for the tournament, its local supporters, and golf enthusiasts.
Strategic considerations for fantasy golf
For fantasy golf players, Scheffler’s presence at the 3M Open introduces new strategic elements. While some front-runners in fantasy leagues might opt to save their Scheffler starts for the upcoming FedExCup Playoffs events, others may see an advantage in utilizing him this week. The 3M Open offers 50 FedExCup bonus points to the winner, which can be compared to the points available in later tournaments.
There are arguments for playing Scheffler now. One factor is the confirmed nature of his participation in the 3M Open, contrasting with the potential for him to miss a Playoffs event, though he has consistently reached the TOUR Championship since joining the PGA TOUR in 2019-20. Additionally, TPC Twin Cities was noted as the easiest par 71 course during the 2025 season, suggesting a high-scoring environment where Scheffler, who leads the PGA TOUR in adjusted scoring and par breakers, could excel.
Another perspective highlights Scheffler’s elevated value in the 3M Open compared to the deeper talent pools expected in the Playoffs. Fantasy gamers might consider rostering him when his betting odds are shortest in a full field, as odds can help distinguish his value relative to other players. The course conditions at TPC Twin Cities are anticipated to be more forgiving than those at TPC Southwind, which hosts the FedEx St. Jude Championship, the initial Playoffs event.
Key players and their form
Beyond Scheffler, several other players are drawing attention. Tom Kim, who recently won the Genesis Scottish Open, is in strong form and is aiming to qualify for the TOUR Championship. Kurt Kitayama, the defending champion of the 3M Open, has demonstrated consistent performance throughout the season, marking a departure from his previous profile of occasional spikes. TPC Twin Cities has historically suited his game well, as evidenced by his victory last year.
Other players to watch include Tony Finau, the 2022 champion of the 3M Open and the tournament’s all-time earnings leader. However, he has been in a period of less consistent play since last year, having missed the cut at TPC Twin Cities previously. Jackson Suber, a PGA TOUR sophomore, has recorded three top-10 finishes in his last seven starts and achieved a T6 in his 3M Open debut last year.
Jake Knapp, who placed T3 at the tournament last year, is returning to competition after an injury. Jason Day has not secured a top-35 finish in his last eight starts, which included an injured back at the U.S. Open, and has had finishes outside the top 60 at TPC Twin Cities. Patrick Rodgers is also returning to action after a month-long break.
Betting favorites and predictions
According to DraftKings as of July 21, Scottie Scheffler is a significant favorite for the 3M Open. Following him in the odds are Kurt Kitayama, Maverick McNealy, Hideki Matsuyama, and Tom Kim. For those looking for options beyond Scheffler, some predictions suggest players like Sungjae Im, Jordan Smith, and Sam Stevens. Im was a runner-up at this tournament in 2022 and ranks highly in approach shots under 100 yards and around-the-green play.
Smith has been striking the ball well, with recent results including a T-21 at the Scottish Open and a T-18 at The Open. Stevens finished solo second at the 3M Open a year ago and has had a strong year with seven T-25 finishes. Additionally, long-shot flier Steven Fisk, a recent ISCO Championship winner, is considered rested after taking a week off.
For the first-round leader market, Tom Kim and Doug Ghim are suggested. Kim is expected to be fresh after a missed cut at Royal Birkdale following his win at the Scottish Open. Ghim has a history of strong Thursday performances, having shot in the 60s on Thursdays for three consecutive months this year, and is rested after not playing at The Open.
Source: pgatour.com