Full Breakdown
Fantasy Baseball Week 2 Preview: Pitcher and Hitter Recommendations
3/29/2026, 6:03:00 AM
Key Pitchers to Stream
As the MLB season progresses into Week 2, fantasy baseball managers are advised to consider specific pitchers for streaming opportunities. David Peterson of the New York Mets stands out as the top streaming option, ranked as the second overall pitcher for the slate. He is set to face the Pittsburgh Pirates, a matchup that benefits from one of the league's premier pitching venues. Peterson's recent performance, including a solid 76-pitch outing in the Grapefruit League, suggests he can effectively pitch at least five innings.
Conversely, Cade Horton, despite a commendable 2.67 ERA last season, presents a cautionary tale. His underlying metrics, including a 4.27 xFIP and a 4.26 SIERA, indicate potential regression. Horton will open against the Washington Nationals, whose lineup may provide a favorable environment for his performance.
Pitchers to Avoid
Aaron Nola, who struggled during the previous season and had a lackluster final Grapefruit League outing, is a pitcher to avoid. He allowed three runs on six hits and three walks in just four innings, raising concerns ahead of his matchup against the Texas Rangers, known for their strong batting lineup.
Sleeper Hitters for Week 2
Fantasy managers should also explore sleeper hitters who are rostered in less than 80% of CBS Sports leagues. Notable recommendations include:
- Dansby Swanson (SS, Chicago Cubs): With a favorable schedule against left-handed pitchers, Swanson, who has a history of performing well against lefties, could be a valuable addition.
- Carson Benge (RF, New York Mets): After a promising debut, Benge faces a favorable slate that includes seven games, enhancing his potential for production.
- Justin Crawford (CF, Philadelphia Phillies): Set to face the Nationals and Rockies, Crawford's matchups could yield significant opportunities for scoring.
- Gabriel Moreno (C, Arizona Diamondbacks): With the Diamondbacks scheduled for seven games, Moreno's potential for production increases, especially against weaker pitching.
Additional Sleeper Options
Other players to consider include Brett Baty (3B, New York Mets), who has favorable matchups against right-handed pitchers, and Josh Smith (SS, Texas Rangers), who has shown power during spring training and faces inviting matchups this week.
Official Statements & Responses
Fantasy analysts emphasize the importance of matchups when selecting players for the upcoming week. The consensus is that while some players may not be household names, their favorable conditions could lead to significant contributions to fantasy teams.
Criticism & Opposition
Some analysts caution against relying too heavily on spring training statistics, particularly for veteran players like Aaron Nola, whose performance may not accurately reflect their potential in the regular season. Critics argue that past performance should be weighed alongside current form to make informed decisions.
What's Next
As the season progresses, fantasy managers are encouraged to stay updated on player performances and injury reports, as these factors can significantly impact lineup decisions. Regular updates and analysis will be crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of fantasy baseball.
