Full Breakdown
2026 Fantasy Baseball Prospects: Top 10 First Basemen
12/13/2025, 1:15:43 AM
Overview of First Base Prospects
The landscape of first base prospects for the 2026 season reveals a mix of established talent and emerging players. While the position is traditionally seen as a haven for powerful hitters, the current crop of prospects is characterized by a lack of standout first basemen from recent drafts. Notably, Bryce Eldridge of the San Francisco Giants remains a key figure, despite his struggles in the majors.
Key Prospects for 2026
1. Bryce Eldridge, San Francisco Giants
Age: 21
Minor League Stats: .260 BA, 25 HR, .843 OPS
Major League Stats: .107 BA, 3 hits in 28 at-bats
Eldridge's significant power potential is tempered by his recent performance, where he faced challenges adjusting to major league pitching. He is expected to continue developing in 2026.
2. Sal Stewart, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 22
Minor League Stats: .309 BA, 20 HR, 17 SB
Major League Stats: .255 BA, 5 HR
Stewart is recognized for his strong bat-to-ball skills and has shown promise across multiple levels, though his playing time may be inconsistent due to managerial decisions.
3. Jorge Velazquez
Age: 20
Minor League Stats: .265 BA, 22 HR
Velazquez has demonstrated solid hitting capabilities, moving up to Double-A shortly after turning 20, and is expected to be a player to watch.
4. Colton Collier
Age: 21
Minor League Stats: .279 BA, 4 HR
Collier's 2025 season was marred by injury, but his left-handed bat and on-base skills offer a viable path to first base.
5. Isaac
Age: 22
Minor League Stats: .201 BA, 9 HR
Despite a challenging couple of seasons, Isaac's potential remains due to his power and ability to hit for average if he can refine his swing.
6. Jonathon Long, Chicago Cubs
Age: 24
Minor League Stats: .305 BA, 20 HR
Long's strong performance at Triple-A positions him as a potential contributor, though he faces competition for playing time.
7. Tre' Morgan, Tampa Bay Rays
Age: 23
Minor League Stats: .274 BA, 8 HR, 8 SB
Morgan's defensive prowess is noted, but his offensive output needs to improve for him to be a significant fantasy asset.
8. Blaine Crim, Colorado Rockies
Age: 28
Minor League Stats: .281 BA, 21 HR
Crim's future is uncertain due to his age and reliance on team decisions, making him a risky investment.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts express skepticism regarding the depth of first base prospects, particularly highlighting the challenges faced by players like Eldridge and Crim. The lack of elite talent from recent drafts raises concerns about the long-term viability of these prospects in the major leagues.
Official Statements & Responses
The evaluations of these prospects emphasize their potential while acknowledging the hurdles they face. Analysts suggest that while some players may not contribute immediately, their long-term value could be significant.
Verbatim Quotes
- “107), 2 2B, 7 BB, 13 K Eldridge hits the ball as hard as any minor leaguer and should be able to leverage his 6-foot-7 frame for considerable power in due time, but his first taste of the majors was a struggle.” — Analyst, CBS Sports
- “810 OPS, 64 BB, 77 K Morgan still earns fairly high marks from traditional prospect evaluators because his defense is said to be otherworldly, but his power is so limited that he's walking a tightrope offensively.” — Analyst, CBS Sports
This overview of first base prospects for 2026 highlights the potential and challenges faced by these players as they aim to establish themselves in Major League Baseball.
