Early-season Waiver Wire bidding is in full swing. One practice worth adopting is to scour the Wire after it runs to see who was dropped. When everyone is chasing the next big thing, players who get cut can quietly become the perfect fit for a specific roster need. One person’s discard is often another person’s gold. With that in mind, let’s take a look at this week’s options.

Jake Bauers, 1B/OF, MIL (CBS: 21% rostered)

I could give you 24 reasons to roster Jake Bauers, but I’ll settle for two. First, the two home runs and two stolen bases to open the season. Second, Andrew Vaughn will miss the next 6–8 weeks recovering from hamate surgery, creating plenty of short‑term playing time.

Josh Bell, 1B, MIN (CBS: 14% rostered)

There will be ups and downs with Josh Bell, but by season’s end, you can usually bank 20–25 homers. Two are already in the books—18–23 to go.

Ben Brown, SP/RP, CHC (CBS: 7% rostered)

One of Colin Rea, Javier Assad, or Ben Brown is likely to fill in for Cade Horton, who’s sidelined with forearm issues. All three are short‑term options while the Cubs wait for top prospect Jaxon Wiggins (CBS: 11% rostered) to prove he’s ready. When in doubt, chase the strikeouts—Ben Brown is that guy.

Jose Fernandez, SS, ARZ (CBS: 18% rostered)

Hitting two home runs in your MLB debut is a great way to get noticed. With both Pavin Smith and Jordan Lawlar on the IL, Fernandez should see meaningful short‑term playing time. A small bid can provide multi‑position relief.

Andrés Giménez, 2B/SS, TOR (CBS: 46% rostered)

Known more for his glove than his bat, Giménez is off to a strong start—two homers, two steals, seven RBI, and a .300 average. He’s one of the few Jays exceeding expectations early. A return to his 2022–23 form shouldn’t be dismissed.

Kyle Isbel, OF, KCR (CBS: 10% rostered)

I’ve been a long‑time, often‑disappointed Kyle Isbel fan. The opportunities for full‑time at‑bats are there again, and with a two‑homer, three‑steal start plus an 11‑for‑23 line, maybe 2026 is finally the breakout we’ve been waiting for.

Colt Keith, 2B/3B, DET (CBS: 48% rostered)

Keith is off to a 10‑for‑24 start. The counting stats haven’t popped yet, but the bat‑to‑ball skills are real—and they will show up. The Tigers like him at the top of the order, and your fantasy squad should too.

Eric Lauer, SP/RP, TOR (CBS: 37% rostered)

There were questions this spring about where Lauer’s 3.11 ERA and 1.11 WHIP would fit into the Jays’ plans. Injuries to José Berríos, Trey Yesavage, Cody Ponce, and Shane Bieber have answered that—he’s in the rotation. He opened with nine strikeouts and two earned runs over six innings against Oakland. You can never have enough pitching, and Toronto badly needs a repeat of his strong 2025.

Joey Loperfido, OF, HOU (CBS: 4% rostered)

Zach Cole, the preseason favorite for left field, was sent to the Minors, giving Loperfido another shot. He’s 8‑for‑22 with three RBI, four runs, and a steal. Maybe the second time around is the charm.

Rhett Lowder, SP, CIN (CBS: 35% rostered)

Two starts in—against Boston and Texas—Lowder owns a win and a 1.64 ERA. Injuries ruined his 2025, limiting him to just 9 1/3 innings, but he’s making up for lost time. Next up: Max Meyer and the Marlins on the road.

Lance McCullers Jr., SP, HOU (CBS: 43% rostered)

McCullers opened his season with a gem: four hits, one walk, one earned run, and nine strikeouts over seven innings. The skills have never been in doubt. If health finally cooperates, he’ll be a major asset.

Eduardo Rodriguez, SP, ARZ (CBS: 25% rostered)

Rodriguez entered 2026 with plenty of question marks, including a brutal early schedule (Braves, Dodgers, Mets). He’s already navigated two of the three without allowing an earned run. The Mets are next. Enjoy the production while it’s flowing.

Max Scherzer, SP, TOR (CBS: 45% rostered)

Scherzer opened by holding Colorado to one earned run over six innings. With Toronto’s rotation decimated by injuries, the Jays are hoping for 150 innings from the 41‑year‑old “Mad Max.” Don’t be surprised if he delivers.

Cam Smith, OF, HOU (CBS: 44% rostered)

Smith is 7‑for‑28 with two homers, two steals, and hits in five straight games. So far, so very good.

Jordan Walker, OF, STL (CBS: 35% rostered)

Walker struggled in Spring Training (16 strikeouts in 44 at‑bats), leaving his role uncertain. But an 8‑for‑27 start with two homers, eight RBI, and a steal has quieted those concerns.

Austin Wells, C, NYY (CBS: 43% rostered)

Wells is off to a slow start, but his 21 homers and 71 RBI from 2025 shouldn’t be forgotten—especially if you’re replacing Alejandro Kirk, who’s on the IL with a fractured thumb.

Ryan Weiss, SP/RP, HOU (CBS: 2% rostered)

As the long man on a strong offensive team, Weiss offers ERA stability, strikeout upside, and “next‑man‑up” potential for the rotation. His transition from the KBO has been smooth so far.

Ryan Waldschmidt, OF, ARI (CBS: 21% rostered)

Jordan Lawlar’s fractured wrist will sideline him for a couple of months. For now, the Arizona outfield is Corbin Carroll, Alek Thomas, and a Tim Tawa/Jorge Barrosa mix. It’s only a matter of time before Waldschmidt—off to a strong start at Triple‑A Reno—gets the call. A penny now or many pennies later.

Closer Report

Clayton Beeter, WAS (CBS: 39% rostered)

Beeter hasn’t fully locked down the job, but he earned and converted the first save. He’s the favorite over Cole Henry for ninth‑inning work. A small bid makes sense.

Paul Sewald, ARZ (CBS: 57% rostered)

Check to see if he’s available in shallow leagues. Do I feel confident he holds the job all year with a 91‑mph heater? No. But he has the role right now and has been lights‑out. Take the production while it’s there.

Welcome back to another year of the Waiver Wire. It’s early in the season, offering the chance to fill gaps in your draft and recover from the early injuries that have disrupted that “perfect” January roster. Don’t play the nickel-and-dime game. A penny saved isn’t anything earned come September. It’s a long year, and a full year’s worth of stats are ahead of you.

Luisangel Acuna, 2B, CWS (CBS: 18% rostered)

Last year, Luisangel Acuna swiped 16 bases in just 175 at-bats with the Metropolitans. This year, he’s taking on a full-time role in center field for the White Sox. Should we set the over/under at 35 stolen bases for 2026?

Moises Ballesteros, U, CHC (CBS: 46% rostered)

Don’t let the 1-for-6 start be a concern. This kid can and will hit for solid numbers in 2026. Buying in early will help alleviate a serious case of buyer’s remorse when he proves the aforementioned point.

Brett Baty, 2B/3B, NYM (CBS: 42% rostered)

Bret Baty is emerging from a solid rookie season, having hit 18 homers and stolen eight bases in 393 at-bats. He’s started this year strong with 3 RBIs and a stolen base early in the week. With his dual eligibility, a small bid makes sense in deeper leagues.

Joe Boyle, SP, TBR (CBS: 11% rostered)

Ryan Pepiot’s hip injury forced the Rays to rely on Joe Boyle on short notice, and he delivered six solid innings of three-hit, no-walk ball, allowing only two earned runs. He had his fastball working, reaching up to 98.5 mph. A small bid in 15-team Mixed Leagues offers a chance to see how his stuff performs against a mediocre Twins team in his next outing.

Jake Burger, 1B, TEX (CBS: 33% rostered)

Jake Burger has hit as many as 34 homers in a season. He’s off to a fast start with two already. There’s no doubt about his skills. The key is his ability to stay healthy and on the field.

Victor Caratini, C, MIN (CBS: 4% rostered)

For those who prioritized Catchers late this Spring, give Victor Caratini a look. He’s a typical Waiver Wire addition as an injury replacement in two-catcher leagues, but since he will see extra 1B/DH at-bats against tough lefties, the 12 homers he hit last year could potentially reach the mid-teens.

Willi Castro, 2B/3B/OF, COL (CBS: 28% rostered)

There has been a change at the top in Colorado, and they are aiming to be much more aggressive on the base paths in 2026. That shift in philosophy, combined with Castro’s speed and ability to play multiple positions, makes for an interesting option if your specific need is speed. He managed to steal 33 bases in 2023 as a member of the Twins.

Deyvison De La Santos, 1B, MIA (CBS: 5% rostered)

The Marlins have turned to divisive Minor League slugger Deyvison De La Santos to replace Christopher Morel, who was placed on the IL with a strained oblique. He should be on the radar in NL-only formats due to the impressive power potential that saw him hit 40 home runs in the minors in 2024.

Dillon Dingler, C, DET (CBS: 28% rostered)

Dingler’s value was overlooked at the draft table this year because of concerns about the arthroscopic surgery he had in January. He started late but quickly made an impact, already hitting a homer and driving in four RBIs in his first two games. It seems the concerns have eased as he works to build on a strong 13 homer/57 RBI season in 2025.

Zach Eflin, SP, TEX (CBS: 26% rostered)

After posting strong numbers in both 2023 (3.50 ERA) and 2024 (3.59 ERA), Zach Eflin faced a tough 2025. He spent three stints on the IL before ending his year in late July. In two Spring Training starts, he pitched a total of 7 1/3 scoreless innings, allowing only two hits and a walk while striking out ten batters. A healthy Zach Eflin is a solid #4 starter with #3 upside and should be considered a must-add this week in all formats.

TJ Friedl, OF, CIN (CBS: 39% rostered)

A leadoff batter on a roster that features Matt McLain, Elly De La Cruz, and the young but highly talented Sal Stewart hitting behind him should attract more interest. With double-digit power and speed potential, along with the added bonus of 80+ runs scored, he has been overlooked in 61% of the leagues playing at CBS.

Lucas Giolito, SP, FA (CBS: 8% rostered)

Lucas Giolito is still seeking a team. If you have space, add him to your reserve roster, and as pitching injuries surface, his potential to deliver a mid-to-high three ERA season should attract interest from MLB teams.

Rhys Hoskins, 1B, CLE (CBS: 9% rostered)

The Guardians need more than just Jose Ramirez, Kyle Manzardo, and rookie Chase DeLauter providing power in their everyday lineup. A small bid, and you’ll find out if Rhys Hoskins is the answer.

Brady House, 3B, WAS (CBS: 19% rostered)

The last time the Nationals had a 20-home run season from the hot corner was in 2019 when Anthony Rendon hit 34 home runs. Brady House will end that drought in 2026.

Anthony Kay, SP, CWS (CBS: 9% rostered)

Kay is penciled in as the No. 3 starter on the South Side and has brought back a new pitch from Japan—the two-seamer—that helped contribute to a league-best 57.8% ground ball rate. With a four-seamer touching 95 mph, plus a slider, changeup, and sweeper, there’s a lot to potentially like.

Jake McCarthy, OF, COL (CBS: 11% rostered)   

Jake McCarthy produced 23, 26, and 25 stolen bases from 2022 through 2024 on an average of 346 at-bats. Run Rockies, run!

Ryan McMahon, 3B, NYY (CBS: 17% rostered)

Ryan McMahon’s last time falling short of 20 homers was in 2018. His career high is 24 homers in 2019. It’s the perfect environment in New York for the 31-year-old to break his career best.

Garrett Mitchell, OF, MIL (CBS: 10% rostered)

Mitchell has had a great start, going 5-for-9 with three RBI and two stolen bases. He’s also walked three times and struck out just once. Staying healthy has been a challenge for the now 27-year-old, but he’s currently on the field and showing a skill set that’s worth paying attention to, even in small-format leagues.

Nasim Nunez, SS, WAS (CBS: 8% rostered)

Batting second in Washington could be a good spot for the young speedster. He has stolen up to 70 bases across High-A and Double-A. He’s a burner and could be a valuable asset if you want to boost speed stats on your Fantasy team.

Luke Raley, 1B/OF, SEA (CBS: 8% rostered)

His two-run homer Saturday night against the Guardians brought his three-game total to three hits, three homers, and five RBIs. It’s not like we haven’t seen Raley hit for power, as he slugged 22 homers back in 2024. He’s doing his best to push Dominic Canzone into the full-time DH role.

Victor Scott II, OF, STL (CBS: 22% rostered)

If you enjoy the thrill of speed, the two steals in the Cards’ home opener give a good preview of what to expect for the rest of the season. Last year, Scott II stole 34 bases in 398 at-bats. He’ll surpass that number well before September this season.

Jose Soriano, SP, LAA (CBS: 47% rostered)

Soriano (1-0) earned the win Thursday over the Astros, allowing two hits and four walks across six scoreless innings. He struck out seven. The fastball was lively, hitting 97.3 mph, and keeping the ball on the ground 66% of the time is a recipe for great results. 150+ strikeouts from your #5/6 starter gets the job done.

Anthony Volpe, SS, NYY (CBS: 22% rostered)

Will he get Wally Pipped or not? It’s worth a small bid to add him and stash him on your team’s IL to see what happens. Despite last year being disappointing, he still managed to hit 19 home runs and steal 18 bases. Many would envy that level of productivity.

Carson Williams, SS, TBR (CBS: 28% rostered)

Taylor Walls lands on the IL with a right oblique strain, and the Rays are turning to the toolsy Carson Williams in the meantime — or could it be more than that? Back-to-back 20/20 seasons at both Double- and Triple-A highlight his impressive tools. The question that needs answering is whether he’ll hit enough to keep the job. I believe he will.

Masyn Winn, SS, STL (CBS: 28% rostered)

Masyn Winn hit 15 home runs and stole 11 bases, along with scoring 85 runs in an impressive rookie season. His second season was tough because he dealt with a knee injury most of the year. He just turned 24 and has a promising future with the rebuilding Cardinals. Much brighter than the 28% level of recoverability.

Closer Report

Lucas Erceg, KCR (CBS: 23% rostered)

Carlos Estevez did not have a good spring. Last night, during his season debut against the Braves, he was absolutely lit up, allowing six earned runs in just 1/3 inning. Additionally, his fastball velocity has dropped by 4 mph from 2025, raising concerns. Lucas Erceg is the next in line for saves and is coming off a strong 2025 season, finishing with a 2.64 ERA and a couple of saves. He will attract plenty of interest and a significant amount of FAAB this evening.

Chris Martin, TEX (CBS: 9% rostered)

The soon-to-be 40-year-old Martin is sharing a job with Robert Garcia. Opportunities will arise. There will be some leaves, but for just a small fraction of that valuable FAAB, you’ll get the chance to find out.

Jordan Romano, LAA (CBS: 12% rostered, ESPN:

Romano received the call for the ninth and earned the save in the Angels’ opener. He pitched a shutout inning in the second game with a four-run lead. It seems like, at least for now, the Angels have found their closer, with Drew Pomeranz moving into the setup role.

Louie Varland, TOR (CBS: 5% rostered)

Jeff Hoffman allowed a ninth-inning home run to Langeliers in the home opener with a one-run lead. We’ve seen this before, but one has to believe the leash, which was already short, is even shorter after Hoffman’s 2026 debut. Call it a hunch, but do the Jays move Tyler Rogers, who has a long history of success in a setup role, into the ninth or go with the former Twin, Varland? I’m betting on Varland and trying to find lightning in a bottle.

An update has been made to our Closer Report.  It can be found here.

Our first Closer Report of the season is available.  It can be found here.

I released our 2026 Top 500 baseball prospects to our Patreon members last week and have made the Top 100 available to everyone.  If you want to see all 500, please become a Patreon member at Patreon.com/Prospect361.

1. Konnor Griffin (SS, Pit) – 20–40 upside with elite tools and improving contact. A future fantasy star.

2. Jesus Made (OF, Mil) – Explosive bat speed, advanced approach, and superstar traits. If the hit tool holds, he’s a fantasy force.

3. Max Clark (OF, Det) – 70-grade speed, advanced bat-to-ball skills, and emerging power.

4. JJ Wetherholt (SS, STL) – Elite hit tool, OBP monster, plus speed. Could be a .300 hitter with 20+ steals and top-of-the-order production. Immediate fantasy relevance.

5. Walker Jenkins (OF, Min) – Middle-of-the-order upside with hit/power blend; cornerstone fantasy piece.

6. Kevin McGonigle (SS, Det) – High-contact, high-OBP profile with 15+ HR potential and low double-digit steals.

7. Sam Basallo (1B, Bal) – Middle-of-the-order catcher with elite bat speed, plus power, and improving plate skills.

8. Sebastian Walcott (SS, Tex) – Premium upside bat, cornerstone fantasy potential.

9. Aidan Miller (SS, Phi) – Advanced bat with OBP, power, and Double-A success.

10. Bubba Chandler (RHP, Pit) – Athletic righty with top-30 SP potential. Arsenal remains strong despite command hiccups.

11. Josue De Paula (OF, LAD) – Advanced plate skills, power projection, middle-of-the-order ceiling

12. Leodalis De Vries (SS, ATH) – Explosive bat speed, growing power, advanced approach; centerpiece prospect with star-level upside.

13. Andrew Painter (RHP, Phi) – Ace upside with elite stuff, post-TJ rebound underway.

14. Franklin Arias (SS, Bos) – Explosive bat speed, plus power projection, early breakout signs.

15. Luis Pena (SS, Mil) – 70-runner with bat speed and emerging pop. He’s a potential impact fantasy player with 30+ SB upside.

16. Zyhir Hope (OF, LAD) – 70 runner with OBP and power upside, possible 30–30 threat

17. Colt Emerson (2B, Sea) – Advanced hit tool, plate discipline, emerging power; cornerstone infielder upside.

18. Bryce Eldridge (1B, SF) – Towering lefty slugger with 70 raw power and improving contact skills

19. Ethan Holliday (SS, Col) – Advanced bat, plus hit tool, developing power, solid athlete

20. Eduardo Quintero (OF, LAD) – 70 speed, emerging power, 15–40 upside if hit tool holds

21. Kade Anderson (LHP, Sea) – Advanced command, polished pitch mix, competitive edge; mid‑rotation with strikeout upside.

22. Josue Briceno (C, Det) – One of the top exit velocity bats in the system. 25+ HR upside with excellent pitch recognition.

23. Nolan McLean (RHP, NYM) – Electric stuff and athleticism point to top-of-the-rotation ceiling.

24. Bryce Rainer (SS, Det) – He has plus raw power and a feel to hit. There is current speed that will not be a big part of the profile in the future.

25. Moises Ballesteros (C, CHC) – Elite contact skills with emerging power. If loft comes, he’s a Top 15 bat at C/1B/DH.

26. Jonah Tong (RHP, NYM) – Arguably the top arm in the minors in 2025; volatile, but mid-rotation upside, maybe more, with elite deception.

27. Thomas White (LHP, Mia) – Big frame, plus fastball/curve combo, potential top-of-the-rotation anchor.

28. Trey Yesavage (RHP, Tor) – Big-league success, starter traits, and proximity make him the safest impact arm here.

29. Jett Williams (SS, NYM) – 15 HR / 40 SB upside with elite OBP and positional versatility.

30. Kaelen Culpepper (SS, Min) – Athletic infielder with power/speed blend and defensive versatility.

31. Tatsuya Imai (RHP, Hou) – Undersized right-handed hitter with a lower three-quarters delivery. 97 to 99 MPH fastball that flattens out due to his arm swing. Plus slider.

32. Carson Benge (OF, NYM) – Polished hitter with OBP skills, sneaky speed, and average power potential.

33. Liam Doyle (LHP, STL) – Swing-and-miss lefty with a deceptive splitter. Could be a high-strikeout SP2 if he stays healthy.

34. Seth Hernandez (RHP, Pit) – 100 MPH fastball and starter traits. Long runway, but top-30 SP ceiling if it clicks.

35. Robby Snelling (LHP, Mia) – Command-first lefty with pitchability, durability, and sneaky K upside

36. Felnin Celesten (SS, Sea) – Explosive actions, switch‑hitting SS; twitch, bat speed, power/speed star ceiling.

37. George Lombard Jr. (SS, NYY) – Plus athlete with zone control, speed, and projection; future fantasy contributor at SS.

38. Justin Crawford (OF, Phi) – 30+ SB threat with improving contact and bat path

39. Arjun Nimmala (SS, Tor) – Explosive ceiling with power, patience, and athleticism; cornerstone upside if hit tool clicks.

40. Theo Gillen (OF, TB) – Explosive athlete with 20/20 upside and OBP traits; loud tools, high ceiling.

41. Payton Tolle (LHP, Bos) – Durable lefty with whiffs, command, and proximity edge.

42. Harry Ford (C, Was) – Athletic catcher, strong OBP, speed/power blend; everyday difference‑maker.

43. Brandon Sproat (RHP, NYM) – Power arsenal with mid-rotation upside if command clicks.

44. Sal Stewart (3B, Cin) – Elite zone control, developing power, and high OBP skills. Quietly tracking toward a near All-Star ceiling at 1B.

45. Lazaro Montes (OF, Sea) – Massive raw power, plus EVs; middle‑order masher upside.

46. Ryan Waldschmidt (OF, Ari) – Athletic, explosive bat speed, power/speed upside

47. Kazuma Okamota (3B, Tor) – Older prospect who demonstrated plus power and a feel to hit in Japan.

48. Gage Jump (LHP, ATH) – Polished lefty, plus changeup feel, command-driven mid-rotation ceiling with strikeouts.

49. Braden Montgomery (OF, CHW) – 70-grade raw power with athleticism and OBP upside. If contact holds, he’s a 25/10 threat with impact potential.

50. Carson Williams (SS, TB) – Elite defender with 20+ HR pop; contact risk but everyday SS upside.

51. JoJo Parker (SS, Tor) – Loud tools, clean health, and trending trajectory; potential middle-of-the-order bat.

52. Ryan Sloan (RHP, Sea) – Big frame, fastball/slider combo; durable innings-eater starter profile.

53. Jeferson Quero (C, Mil) – Hit-first catcher with zone control and leverage. If he stays behind the plate, he’s a rare fantasy asset.

54. Ike Irish (C, Bal) – Advanced hit tool, emerging power, and catcher eligibility. Impact upside with multi-category juice.

55. Connelly Early (LHP, Bos) – Polished lefty with MLB success and starter traits.

56. Alfredo Duno (C, Cin) – Plus power and defensive value. If the contact holds, he’s a Top 15 fantasy catcher in the making.

57. Angel Genao (3B, Cle) – Elite contact and plus speed. Added strength suggests power could follow; trending toward impact SS.

58. Cooper Pratt (SS, Mil) – High-floor shortstop with contact, speed, and developing power. Underrated contributor with 12–15 HR/20+ SB potential.

59. Carter Jensen (C, KC) – His power has been inconsistent in 2025, but once he reached the Pacific Coast League, he exploded. There is potential for 15 to 20 home runs along with solid OBP skills.

60. Charlie Condon (OF, Col) – Big power, strong hit tool, corner profile, mature approach

61. Joshua Baez (OF, STL) – 20–50 season speaks for itself. If the contact gains hold, he’s a fantasy unicorn with power/speed upside few can match.

62. Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz (RHP, NYY) – Starter traits, command, and sequencing; delivery could point to a reliever role.

63. Slade Caldwell (OF, Ari) – Twitchy athlete with OBP skills, plus runner, leadoff potential

64. Travis Sykora (RHP, Was) – Splitter-led arsenal, frontline upside if health cooperates.

65. Termarr Johnson (SS, Pit) – OBP machine with 15+ HR and 12+ SB potential. Quietly productive across formats.

66. Eli Willits (SS, Was) – Speed/OBP shortstop, needs power to unlock fantasy value.

67. Aiva Arquette (SS, Mia) – Strong-bodied infielder with power upside and defensive versatility

68. Jhostynxon Garcia (OF, Pit) – Power-speed blend with contact risk, proximity helps.

69. Josuar Gonzalez (SS, SF) – Explosive bat speed, plus power projection, aggressive but impactful swing decisions

70. Jurrangelo Cijntje (BHP, Sea) – Athletic delivery, unique look; mid‑rotation or swingman potential.

71. A.J. Ewing (OF, NYM) – High OBP, elite speed, and potential for modest pop; Jaren Duran-type ceiling.

72. Aroon Escobar (3B, Phi) – OBP machine with bat speed and emerging power.

73. Travis Bazzana (2B, Cle) – OBP machine with timing issues. If swing reworks, middle infielder with 15/15 upside.

74. Noah Schultz (LHP, CHW) – Elite slider and physicality. If the changeup and control improve, he’s a frontline arm with strikeout upside.

75. Kyson Witherspoon (RHP, Bos) – Premium pitch traits, no pro debut yet.

76. Eduardo Tait (C, Min) – Young catcher with advanced feel for hitting and defensive polish; long runway but real upside.

77. Jaden Hamm (RHP, Det) – Mid-rotation upside with fastball/changeup combo.

78. Staryln Caba (SS, Mia) – Twitchy athlete with hit tool and defensive chops, trending up

79. Ethan Salas (C, SD) – Top 15 fantasy catcher ceiling despite injury setbacks and aggressive timeline

80. Cole Carrigg (OF, Col) – Versatile defender, plus speed, contact skills, sneaky power upside

81. Jhonny Level (SS, SF) – Twitchy athlete with plus speed, developing hit tool, CF defensive upside

82. Michael Arroyo (OF, Sea) – Patient hitter, growing power, versatile infielder; OBP anchor with pop.

83. Emmanuel Rodriguez (OF, Min) – OBP monster with plus power and speed; volatility baked in but fantasy ceiling remains high.

84. JR Ritchie (RHP, Atl) – No. 3 starter traits, close to MLB-ready.

85. Spencer Jones (OF, NYY) – 30/20 upside with elite EVs; contact issues cloud path to impact.

86. Chase DeLauter (OF, Cle) – Strong hit tool with leverage and OBP cushion. Injuries cloud the projection, but the everyday OF upside remains.

87. River Ryan (RHP, LAD) – Electric arm, but elbow injury and age (27) adds risk

88. Wehiwa Aloy (SS, Bal) – 2025 Golden Spikes winner with power, athleticism, and SEC pedigree. Could be a fantasy shortstop with pop.

89. Jacob Melton (OF, TB) – Plus speed/power blend, patient approach, everyday outfield upside.

90. Tink Hence (RHP, STL) – He’s athletic with a top-of-the-rotation arsenal. His problem has been staying on the field.

91. Welbyn Francisca (SS, Cle) – Bat speed and contact skills. BABIP correction and strength gains could unlock Top 15 2B ceiling.

92. Jonny Farmelo (OF, Sea) – Plus speed and bat speed; dynamic leadoff profile if healthy.

93. Tommy Troy (3B, Ari) – First-round pedigree, compact swing, OBP/power blend

94. Ricky Tiedemann (LHP, Tor) – Electric stuff, but post-TJ recovery and durability questions cloud the long-term outlook.

95. Marek Houston (SS, Min) – High-floor bat with zone control and defensive value.

96. Edward Florentino (OF, Pit) – 30-HR power and 35-SB speed. If the contact holds, he’s a fantasy monster.

97. Mike Sirota (OF, LAD) – Post-draft breakout, 20+ homer upside, knee injury tempers momentum

98. Xavier Isaac (1B, TB) – Middle-of-the-order bat with plus power and high walk rates; proximity adds value.

99. Cooper Ingle (C, Cle) – Advanced plate skills and 15+ HR pop. Undersized catcher with a shot to start by 2026.

100. Carlos Lagrange (RHP, NYY) – Electric stuff with reliever risk; cutter/fastball combo could dominate in short bursts.

The Rangers Farm System: The Rangers’ farm system offers intriguing depth, but it’s Sebastian Walcott who stands out as the clear impact prospect.

Summary

The Rangers’ system features several high‑end talents who could become fantasy impact players. Sebastian Walcott headlines the group with premium upside, while Gavin Fien offers offensive cornerstone potential with the bat. On the pitching side, Jose Corniell and Winston Santos stand out as rotation arms with strikeout stuff and polish, giving the organization a balanced mix of impact bats and arms at the top of the system.

Beyond the top names, the Rangers have a collection of everyday contributors who could provide steady fantasy value. Yeremy Cabrera brings plus speed and plate discipline, while David Davalillo has emerged with a splitter/command combo that points to rotation stability. Abimelec Ortiz offers power but likely in a platoon role, and Malcolm Moore has lofted swing mechanics that could eventually produce corner infield or catcher depth. These players may not carry star upside, but they have paths to regular roles that matter in deeper dynasty formats.

Finally, the system includes speculative watch‑list types that remain intriguing but carry more risk. Paulino Santana is still raw but athletic enough to dream on, while Josh Owens has the tools but needs time to refine his hit tool. Justin Foscue and Dustin Harris highlight the cautionary side of prospect development, with stalled bats and positional limitations capping their fantasy appeal. Together, this mix of high-end upside, everyday contributors, and speculative depth makes the Rangers’ system diverse, though fantasy managers will need to be selective in targeting the players most likely to deliver value.

AI-Assisted Fantasy Tiers: Methodology and Observations

AI has made significant strides in all aspects of our lives. Over the past four years, I have compiled 500,000 words of personal scouting narratives, which have formed the foundation for training my own AI assistant. This assistant now evaluates prospects and assigns fantasy tiers exclusively based on the insights and observations contained in my write-ups.

After requesting that my AI assistant generate fantasy tiers using this year’s reports, I found that the AI’s rankings generally align with my own assessments. However, there are some cases where the AI’s evaluations differ from my personal rankings. I am sharing those differences here for your consideration.

🥇 Tier 1: Fantasy Impact Target

• Sebastian Walcott – Premium upside bat, cornerstone fantasy potential.
• Gavin Fien – Advanced bat speed, strong plate discipline, above-average power, versatile defender.
• Jose Corniell – Returned from TJS, pounding the strike zone with a mid to upper 90s fastball.

🥈 Tier 2: Everyday-Upside Targets

• Caden Scarborough – Potential sleeper in the organization – throwing more strikes and is showing more velo.
• Cameron Cauley – Speed/power blend with center‑field fit.  Will he hit enough?
• AJ Russell – Returned from TJS quickly in his draft year to post solid numbers.
• Winston Santos – Polished starter profile, innings-eater potential.
• Alejandro Rosario – After making significant strides in his delivery and overall arsenal in 2024, he suffered an elbow injury during Spring Training and missed the entire season.
• Elorky Rodriguez – He’s a hit-first prospect with excellent bat-to-ball skills and a chance to develop above-average power.

To see the list, click here.

The Mariners Farm System: The Mariners’ farm system is defined by explosive tools at the top, a mix of polished bats and athletic profiles in the middle, and a handful of high‑risk investments that require patience and monitoring.

Summary

The Mariners’ system is headlined by Colt Emerson, Felnin Celesten, and Harry Ford, three players who combine polish with impact tools. Celesten’s twitchy athleticism and switch-hitting upside give him star potential at shortstop, while Emerson’s advanced hit tool and plate discipline make him a cornerstone infielder in the making. Ford, already a high-floor catcher, blends OBP skills with speed and power, offering everyday fantasy impact. Alongside them, Lazaro Montes brings middle-order masher upside with elite raw power, and Jonny Farmelo adds dynamic leadoff potential thanks to plus speed and bat speed.

Supporting this top group are names like Luke Stevenson and Michael Arroyo, both of whom offer everyday fantasy utility with strong offensive profiles. Stevenson’s patience and plus power could make him a valuable fantasy catcher, while Arroyo’s patient approach and growing pop give him a versatile infield profile.

Kade Anderson leads a strong but thin group of pitchers that also includes Jurrangelo Cijntje and Ryan Sloan.  While the pitching depth is down, the Mariners do such a great job with their pitching that there will likely be some pop-up players during the 2026 season.

AI-Assisted Fantasy Tiers: Methodology and Observations

AI has made significant strides in all aspects of our lives. Over the past four years, I have compiled 500,000 words of personal scouting narratives, which have formed the foundation for training my own AI assistant. This assistant now evaluates prospects and assigns fantasy tiers exclusively based on the insights and observations contained in my write-ups.

After requesting that my AI assistant generate fantasy tiers using this year’s reports, I found that the AI’s rankings generally align with my own assessments. However, there are some cases where the AI’s evaluations differ from my personal rankings. I am sharing those differences here for your consideration.

🥇 Tier 1: Fantasy Impact Target

• Felnin Celesten — Explosive actions, switch‑hitting SS; twitch, bat speed, power/speed star ceiling.
• Colt Emerson — Advanced hit tool, plate discipline, emerging power; cornerstone infielder upside.
• Harry Ford — Athletic catcher, strong OBP, speed/power blend; everyday difference‑maker.
• Lazaro Montes — Massive raw power, plus EVs; middle‑order masher upside.
• Kade Anderson — Advanced command, polished pitch mix, competitive edge; mid‑rotation with strikeout upside.

🥈 Tier 2: Everyday-Upside Targets

• Jonny Farmelo — Plus speed and bat speed; dynamic leadoff profile if healthy.
• Luke Stevenson — Plus power, patient approach, strong EVs; everyday catcher potential.
• Michael Arroyo — Patient hitter, growing power, versatile infielder; OBP anchor with pop.
• Ryan Sloan — Big frame, fastball/slider combo; durable innings‑eater starter profile.
• Jurrangelo Cijntje — Athletic delivery, unique look; mid‑rotation or swingman potential.
• Nick Becker — Athletic corner bat, raw power; swing refinement could unlock impact.
• Tai Peete — Athletic infielder, bat speed; multi‑positional utility likely without hit gains.

To see the list, click here.

The Angels Farm System: The Angels’ farm system is built more on volume than star power, with intriguing athletes and arms scattered throughout but very few projecting as true fantasy impact talents; overall, it’s a collection of everyday-upside and speculative depth profiles rather than cornerstone prospects.

Summary

The Angels’ farm system is thin at the top, with only a few players with a chance to be impact players.  Tyler Bremner and Johnny Slawinski are polished enough to move quickly, but their ceilings look more mid‑rotation or steady regular than stars. Chase Shores’ fastball/slider combo gives him mid-rotation upside if the change-up arrives, while Denzer Guzman’s athletic infield profile offers everyday regular potential. Even intriguing names like Nelson Rada and Raudi Rodriguez carry limitations — Rada’s speed is real, but his power is capped, while Rodriguez’s swing‑and‑miss risk clouds his otherwise appealing power/speed blend.

The next tier is filled with everyday‑upside types who could contribute but lack impact ceilings. Gabriel Davalillo brings raw strength but questionable contact skills, while Trey Gregory‑Alford flashes big velocity and athleticism but remains raw. On the mound, Ryan Johnson and Samy Natera Jr. both show swing‑and‑miss stuff but struggle with control, leaving bullpen futures more likely than rotation roles. These players could grow into useful pieces, but none stand out as surefire fantasy drivers.

While there are interesting profiles scattered throughout the system, the farm lacks high‑probability stars. Dynasty managers should temper expectations.

AI-Assisted Fantasy Tiers: Methodology and Observations

AI has made significant strides in all aspects of our lives. Over the past four years, I have compiled 500,000 words of personal scouting narratives, which have formed the foundation for training my own AI assistant. This assistant now evaluates prospects and assigns fantasy tiers exclusively based on the insights and observations contained in my write-ups.

After requesting that my AI assistant generate fantasy tiers using this year’s reports, I found that the AI’s rankings generally align with my own assessments. However, there are some cases where the AI’s evaluations differ from my personal rankings. I am sharing those differences here for your consideration.

🥇 Tier 1: Fantasy Impact Targets

• Chase Shores – Triple-digit fastball, 70-grade slider, starter upside if change-up develops.
• Denzer Guzman – Athletic infielder, growing power/speed blend, OBP skills, multi-positional everyday potential.
• Tyler Bremner – Mid-90s fastball, advanced command, polished starter profile, potential mid-rotation impact.
• Johnny Slawinski – Plus hit tool, gap power, strong approach, everyday regular upside at premium position.

🥈 Tier 2: Everyday-Upside Targets

• Nelson Rada – 70 runner, strong defender, limited power, ceiling capped but everyday speed contributor.
• Raudi Rodriguez – Levered swing, above-average power projection, plus runner, AFL breakout momentum.
• Gabriel Davalillo – Physically maxed teenager, big raw power, uncertain hit tool, strong baseball lineage.
• Trey Gregory-Alford (TGA) – 97–101 mph fastball, athletic 6’5 frame, slider flashes plus, raw starter profile.

To see the list, click here.

Houston Astros Farm System: The Astros’ farm system blends potential fantasy-impact, but volatile bats, with a mix of equally volatile arms.

Summary

The Astros’ system features a handful of true fantasy-impact bats, led by Jacob Melton and Brice Matthews, both combine athleticism with speed/power blends that could translate into everyday roles.  Xavier Neyens offers big raw power with patience, and Walker Janek is a rare catcher who brings both pop and speed alongside plus defense. Together, they form the core of Houston’s most exciting fantasy prospects.

On the pitching side, Bryce Mayer and Alonzo Tredwell stand out as rotation candidates. Mayer throws strikes with three solid secondaries and could grow into a mid-rotation arm if velocity ticks up post-TJS, while Tredwell’s unique pitch shapes and 6-foot-8 frame make him an analytics favorite despite average velocity. Ryan Forcucci and Miguel Ullola are more volatile — Forcucci has mid-rotation upside if he returns strong from surgery, while Ullola’s upper-90s fastball/slider combo likely fits best in relief.

Among the developmental bats, Caden Powell, Luis Baez, Nick Monistere, and Kevin Alvarez offer intriguing but risky profiles. Powell pairs hard contact with speed but must cut down a 30% strikeout rate, Baez has significant raw power but struggled post-injury with spin and strikeouts, and Monistere brings rare second-base power but needs to refine his approach. Alvarez, meanwhile, made a notable impression in the DSL with strong contact skills and steady defense, positioning himself as a sleeper utility infielder to watch as he climbs the ladder.

AI-Assisted Fantasy Tiers: Methodology and Observations

AI has made significant strides in all aspects of our lives. Over the past four years, I have compiled 500,000 words of personal scouting narratives, which have formed the foundation for training my own AI assistant. This assistant now evaluates prospects and assigns fantasy tiers exclusively based on the insights and observations contained in my write-ups.

After requesting that my AI assistant generate fantasy tiers using this year’s reports, I found that the AI’s rankings generally align with my own assessments. However, there are some cases where the AI’s evaluations differ from my personal rankings. I am sharing those differences here for your consideration.

🥇 Tier 1: Fantasy Impact Targets

• Jacob Melton – Plus speed/power blend, patient approach, everyday outfield upside.

• Brice Matthews – Athletic shortstop, above-average pop, speed, versatile defensive profile.
• Xavier Neyens – Raw power, above-average bat speed, patient approach, three-outcome potential.
• Walker Janek – Catcher with solid power, surprising speed, plus defense, OBP upside.

🥈 Tier 2: Everyday-Upside Targets

• Zach Cole – Speed-first outfielder, gap power, solid defense, fourth outfielder profile.

• Kevin Alvarez – Contact-oriented infielder, average power, steady glove, utility role projection.
• Ethan Frey – Balanced power/speed, solid strike-zone feel, fourth outfielder upside.
• Joseph Sullivan – 70-grade runner, modest pop, passive approach, regular role possible.

To see the list, click here.