Full Breakdown
2026 Fantasy Baseball Draft Insights: Sleepers, Breakouts, and Busts
3/1/2026, 1:15:46 AM
Key Fantasy Baseball Picks for 2026
As the 2026 MLB season approaches, Fantasy baseball drafts are underway, with players like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, and Juan Soto leading early selections. However, identifying value picks in the mid-to-late rounds is crucial for building a competitive roster. This article synthesizes insights on potential sleepers, breakouts, and busts for the upcoming season.
Prominent Sleepers
One notable sleeper is Brandon Lowe, the Pittsburgh Pirates' second baseman. After a power surge in 2025, where he recorded 31 home runs and 83 RBIs, Lowe is currently being drafted at pick No. 132. SportsLine's model ranks him as the No. 6 second baseman, ahead of higher ADP players like Marcus Semien and Ozzie Albies.
Another sleeper is Alec Burleson of the St. Louis Cardinals, who had a strong 2025 season with a .290 batting average and 18 home runs. With an average draft position (ADP) of 184, Burleson is projected to have an everyday role, potentially offering solid contributions across multiple categories.
Breakout Candidates
Hunter Goodman, the Colorado Rockies' catcher, is highlighted as a breakout candidate after a successful 2025 season, where he hit .278 with 31 home runs. Despite this performance, he is being drafted late in the top-100 picks. SportsLine projects him as the No. 2 catcher for 2026, suggesting he should be selected ahead of players like Will Smith.
Spencer Torkelson of the Detroit Tigers is another player to watch, having tied his career high with 31 home runs in 2025. With an ADP of 202, Torkelson's potential for a 30-home run season makes him an appealing option for Fantasy managers.
Identifying Busts
Conversely, several players are considered bust candidates for the 2026 season. Mookie Betts of the Los Angeles Dodgers, currently being drafted at pick No. 47, is projected to underperform due to declining numbers, including a career-low .258 batting average in 2025.
Another notable bust is Jacob Misiorowski of the Milwaukee Brewers. Despite a strong start to his career, his recent performance has raised concerns, leading SportsLine to rank him outside the top 100 starting pitchers, while his ADP is around 80.
Additionally, Jarren Duran of the Boston Red Sox is flagged as a potential bust. His playing time may be limited due to competition, and his performance against left-handed pitchers raises questions about his value at an ADP of 64.8.
Conclusion
As Fantasy baseball managers prepare for the 2026 season, understanding the landscape of sleepers, breakouts, and busts is essential for making informed draft decisions. Utilizing resources like SportsLine's projections can provide a competitive edge in identifying undervalued players and avoiding potential pitfalls. For comprehensive rankings and cheat sheets, managers are encouraged to consult SportsLine's offerings as the season unfolds.
