Full Breakdown
Fantasy Baseball Week 1: Top Sleeper Pitchers for Different Scoring Periods
3/25/2026, 7:43:18 AM
Overview of the Week 1 Pitching Landscape
As the 2023 fantasy baseball season begins, managers face the challenge of navigating player injuries and underperformance. This week’s recommendations focus on sleeper pitchers who are rostered in less than 80% of CBS Sports leagues. Given that Opening Day falls on a Wednesday, leagues may vary in their scoring periods, with some opting for a five-day period from March 25-29, while others may combine it with the first full week for a 12-day scoring period.
Key Sleeper Pitchers for Short Week 1 (March 25-29)
Michael Burrows - Houston Astros
- Position: SP
- Age: 26
- Rostered: 59%
- Matchup: vs. Los Angeles Angels
Michael Burrows, equipped with a new sinker, is poised for a breakout season. His first matchup against an Angels lineup that led the league in strikeouts last year presents a favorable opportunity for fantasy managers.
Shane Baz - Baltimore Orioles
- Position: SP
- Age: 26
- Rostered: 77%
- Matchup: vs. Minnesota Twins
Despite skepticism regarding his potential breakout, Shane Baz faces a weak Twins lineup, making this matchup an attractive option for streaming.
Matthew Liberatore - St. Louis Cardinals
- Position: SP
- Age: 26
- Rostered: 40%
- Matchup: vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Matthew Liberatore has demonstrated impressive strikeout potential this spring, with a swinging-strike rate near 19%. His matchup against a struggling Rays lineup further enhances his streaming appeal.
Additional Sleeper Pitchers for the Upcoming Week
Chad Patrick - Milwaukee Brewers
- Position: P
- Age: 27
- Rostered: 37%
- Matchup: vs. Chicago White Sox
Chad Patrick, who posted a solid 3.53 ERA and 9.6 K/9 as a rookie, is expected to take on a more prominent role this season. His matchup against the White Sox is favorable for his season debut.
Grant Holmes - Atlanta Braves
- Position: RP
- Age: 30
- Rostered: 49%
- Matchup: vs. Kansas City Royals
After recovering from a partial UCL tear, Grant Holmes showcased his potential with a strong spring performance. Despite the Royals' potential for offensive improvement, they ranked low in runs scored last season, making Holmes a viable streaming option.
Will Warren - New York Yankees
- Position: P
- Age: 26
- Rostered: 42%
- Matchup: at San Francisco Giants
Will Warren concluded spring training with an impressive 1.42 ERA and 0.63 WHIP. His matchup against the Giants provides a gentle start to the season, making him a sleeper to consider.
Conclusion
As fantasy baseball managers prepare for the first week of the season, these sleeper pitchers offer potential value for both short and extended scoring periods. By strategically selecting these players, managers can enhance their rosters and navigate the uncertainties of the early season.
