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2026 MLB Spring Training: Ohtani Leads Fantasy Draft Rankings

2/18/2026

23 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The 2026 MLB spring training begins February 20, prompting fantasy drafts.
Shohei Ohtani tops the board, followed by Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt, Juan Soto, Jose Ramirez, and Tarik Skubal.
SportsLine's model labels Pittsburgh's Brandon Lowe as a sleeper and Rockies' Hunter Goodman as a breakout.
Mookie Betts is flagged as a bust, and the shortstop pool remains deep with 15 viable starters.

History

Historical Context

In 1998, Major League Baseball introduced the Wild Card playoff system, enhancing competition as 14 teams qualified for the postseason. This season also featured the New York Yankees achieving a record 125 wins, while Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa captivated fans with their historic home run chase, ultimately reshaping player evaluation and fan engagement in the sport.

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Story summary

The 2026 MLB spring training begins February 20, prompting fantasy drafts.
Shohei Ohtani tops the board, followed by Aaron Judge, Bobby Witt, Juan Soto, Jose Ramirez, and Tarik Skubal.
SportsLine's model labels Pittsburgh's Brandon Lowe as a sleeper and Rockies' Hunter Goodman as a breakout.
Mookie Betts is flagged as a bust, and the shortstop pool remains deep with 15 viable starters.

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