Who would not like prospects, proper?
They’re untested and freed from warts, simply excellent little vessels of potential. One day, they will be known as up and destroy that phantasm — most of them, anyway — however for now, they will do no unsuitable.
And they don’t have any finish. Have you ever observed how any obscure minor leaguer who turns into concerned in a commerce is recognized as a “prospect.” Yeah, any participant whose rookie eligibility remains to be intact technically meets the outline. The trick is in narrowing down those who matter most, and that is what a high 100 listing is designed to do. There are too many variables in play, an excessive amount of hypothesis at work, to offer an correct illustration of which participant is healthier than the subsequent. Better in what manner? The main objective, then, is to focus on the gamers of the best curiosity, with the exact rating being a secondary objective.
The gamers of the best curiosity are a bit completely different in Fantasy than in actual life, and since this specific rank listing is geared for Fantasy, I ought to in all probability clarify. In Fantasy, protection solely issues to the diploma that it may value a participant taking part in time, so it is a minor a part of my analysis. I attempt to fade pitchers, viewing them as unpredictable property with little management over their future outcomes. Because Fantasy leagues do not permit for as a lot persistence as actual life, I additionally attempt to give an fascinating Triple-A participant who’s on the verge of contributing within the majors a leg up over a projectable 18-year-old nonetheless in Rookie ball. That’s very true towards the top of the listing.
But after all, expertise trumps all different issues in these situations the place the expertise is obvious. Dynasty Leagues are all the fashion nowadays, and this rank listing is primarily a Dynasty (quite than redraft) useful resource.
Though I’d argue that anybody with an curiosity in baseball ought to no less than have a passing curiosity.
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .333 BA (484 AB), 21 HR, 65 SB, .941 OPS, 50 BB, 122 Ok
Griffin is what everyone photos after they hear the phrase “athlete,” which is what obtained him drafted ninth total in 2024, however the ease with which he is transitioned to the professional recreation is what’s moved him to the highest of this listing. For a participant this imposing to even be this expert instantly is truthfully paying homage to Mike Trout, although Griffin in all probability will not be fairly the on-base menace Trout was.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .305 BA (331 AB), 19 HR, 10 SB, .991 OPS, 59 BB, 46 Ok
McGonigle is not as tooled up as Griffin however has maxed out his expertise such that he is additionally within the No. 1 total dialogue, with Baseball America even awarding him an 80 grade for his hit device. He would not impression the ball as exhausting as among the elite prospects, however he is begun to adapt his swing for energy and has walked greater than he is struck out at each stage.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 18
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .285 BA (453 AB), 6 HR, 47 SB, .792 OPS, 67 BB, 108 Ok
Though Made has but to actualize his energy, it is simple to mission provided that he already generates exit velocities higher than most main leaguers and has made all of it the way in which to Double-A as an 18-year-old. Between his switch-hitting, his base-stealing prowess, and his knack for placing bat to ball, a Jose Ramirez-like consequence may presumably be in his future.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .306 BA (408 AB), 17 HR, 23 SB, .931 OPS, 72 BB, 73 Ok
Wetherholt would not get the identical press, however he is 90 p.c of the way in which to being what McGonigle is, boasting a top-of-the-scales hit device with excessive stroll and low strikeout charges. The largest distinction is that he hasn’t come as far in tailoring his swing for energy regardless of being a pair years older, however he nonetheless homered at a pleasant price.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .255 BA (455 AB), 15 HR, 11 SB, .806 OPS, 66 BB, 107 Ok
The Padres have a tendency to advertise their prospects extra aggressively than the numbers can sustain with, which provides suspension after they then flip a kind of quick movers for, say, an ace reliever. But the Athletics adopted their lead after buying De Vries for Mason Miller, bumping him as much as Double-A virtually instantly, and the 18-year-old responded by slashing .281/.359/.551 in 21 video games there, including gas to the Francisco Lindor comparisons.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
6. Sebastian Walcott, SS, Rangers
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A
Minor league stats: .255 BA (474 AB), 13 HR, 32 SB, .741 OPS, 70 BB, 108 Ok
Walcott dropped his strikeout price under 20 p.c even with an aggressive promotion to Double-A, quelling issues about his hit device, however he additionally slugged simply .386 as he struggled to place the ball within the air. His energy projection stays among the many highest within the minors, although, and the strides he is made thus far bode effectively for him assembly it will definitely.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .270 BA (270 AB), 23 HR, .966 OPS, 44 BB, 76 Ok
Major league stats: .165 BA (109 AB), 4 HR, .559 OPS, 6 BB, 30 Ok
While the Orioles have a franchise catcher in Adley Rutschman, Basallo’s bat is nice sufficient to occupy both first base or DH, with a long-term deal already in place to present him the within observe. A Kyle Schwarber-like consequence would appear to be on the desk, judging by his prodigious exit velocity readings at Triple-A (94.2 mph common and 115.9 mph max).
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 5-6, 4.05 ERA, 1.48 WHIP, 100 IP, 53 BB, 121 Ok
Major league stats: 4-1, 4.02 ERA, 0.93 WHIP, 31.1 IP, 4 BB, 31 Ok
The complete world thought Chandler must be promoted when he had a 2.03 ERA and 12.8 Ok/9 by 11 Triple-A begins, however then when he wasn’t, frustration mounted, and his management went awry. He was pinpoint correct when he lastly reached the majors, although, blowing hitters away together with his A-grade fastball, so it is simple to get behind him as the highest pitching prospect nonetheless.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .281 BA (441 AB), 15 HR, 22 SB, .857 OPS, 68 BB, 92 Ok
The departure of Brandon Nimmo would appear to sign the arrival of Benge, who’s simply as discerning on the plate however is prone to ship higher-end outcomes, judging by his 92.1 common exit velocity at Triple-A and knack for drilling the ball the opposite manner. He was slashing .308/.413/.513 earlier than arriving at Triple-A, the place a hand damage slowed him down.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .285 BA (506 AB), 16 HR, 14 SB, .842 OPS, 71 BB, 105 Ok
A quieter setup and two-handed end introduced out Emerson’s energy lastly halfway by final yr, sharply lowering his ground-ball price as he slashed .311/.404/.510 over his ultimate 71 video games. He’s so polished in any other case that he invitations Corey Seager comparisons and is predicted to get a critical look from the Mariners this spring.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .260 BA (384 AB), 25 HR, .843 OPS, 42 BB, 127 Ok
Major league stats: 3 for 28 (.107), 2 2B, 7 BB, 13 Ok
The 6-foot-7 Eldridge dents the ball each time he makes contact with it, having delivered a Judgian 95.7 mph common exit velocity at Triple-A this previous yr, however he may stand to make extra contact and will have been rushed to the majors throughout a misplaced 2025 season for the Giants. The scouting studies are bullish total, however we’ll have to have persistence for him as he learns to cowl such a big strike zone.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A, Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 5-1, 3.12 ERA, 0.97 WHIP, 98 IP, 41 BB, 160 Ok
Major league stats: 1-0, 3.21 ERA, 1.43 WHIP, 14 IP, 7 BB, 16 Ok
Yesavage is essentially the most battle-tested of rookies, having performed a starring function within the Blue Jays’ AL championship run, and anybody who got here alongside for that journey is aware of full effectively about his over-the-top supply, his devastating splitter, his reverse-breaking slider, and the unhittable high quality present in such an unfamiliar arsenal. He may give a few of it again because the league turns into extra aware of him, significantly on these days when he struggles to throw strikes, however he is been a bat-missing monstrosity all over the place he is pitched to this point.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: 8-5, 2.45 ERA, 1.13 WHIP, 113.2 IP, 50 BB, 127 Ok
Major league stats: 5-1, 2.06 ERA, 1.04 WHIP, 48 IP, 16 BB, 57 Ok
McLean’s story is much like Spencer Schwellenbach’s in that you simply’d by no means know by his six-pitch arsenal and wily strategy that he solely gave up hitting the yr earlier than. His dominance down the stretch is a testomony to each his stuff and strategy, but it surely in all probability overstates his strikeout potential and will have papered over some lingering (albeit minor) management points.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .264 BA (432 AB), 14 HR, 59 SB, .825 OPS, 82 BB, 123 Ok
Miller hit a low level in 2025 as he struggled to adapt to the superior breaking balls at Double-A and appeared on the verge of collapsing a a prospect, however then he rallied by a collection of minor changes to slash .357/.489/.601 over his ultimate 38 video games, giving him the look of a franchise shortstop who occurs to be caught behind Trea Turner.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .286 BA (308 AB), 10 HR, 17 SB, .850 OPS, 50 BB, 76 Ok
Jenkins’ legs have been betraying him ever because the Twins made him the fifth decide within the 2023 draft, undermining what’s a picture-perfect strategy and swing. He did start to flash a few of his promised energy this previous yr, although, slashing .309/.426/.487 as a 20-year-old at Double-A, the place he spent two-thirds of his season.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: 4-3, 2.31 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 89.2 IP, 51 BB, 145 Ok
A 19 p.c swinging-strike price is subsequent to not possible for any pitcher and unprecedented for a lefty, however White made it occur with a misleading supply and three pitches that price as plus. The Marlins spent the offseason clearing out rotation house, however he might have to type out some management points at Triple-A earlier than getting his shot.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .287 BA (418 AB), 20 HR, 54 SB, .884 OPS, 59 BB, 103 Ok
Learning to raise is usually the largest hurdle for tooled-up prospects, however Baez’s case was simply the alternative: His swing had gotten so steep that he merely wasn’t making sufficient contact. Leveling it out in 2025 shaved 15 share factors off his strikeout price and unleashed a five-category monster.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A
Minor league stats: .293 BA (433 AB), 19 HR, 47 SB, .923 OPS, 88 BB, 123 Ok
You could also be stunned to see Quintero leapfrog Josue De Paula and Zyhir Hope within the Dodgers system provided that he was the least heralded of the three coming in, however he is extra disciplined than Hope and has a swing higher tailored for energy than De Paula. His baseball-stealing prowess additionally makes for a friendlier Fantasy profile.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
19. Josue De Paula, OF, Dodgers
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .250 BA (360 AB), 12 HR, 32 SB, .791 OPS, 82 BB, 91 Ok
From the time he was 18, De Paula has stood out for his affected person strategy and penchant for exhausting contact — two uncommon traits for a prospect so younger — however in the end, he’ll want extra to indicate for it than a excessive on-base price, significantly since he brings no defensive worth. Getting the ball within the air to his pull facet is the important thing.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .271 BA (431 AB), 14 HR, 19 SB, .835 OPS, 94 BB, 90 Ok
The social media darling had subsisted totally on his protection and bat-to-ball expertise previous to 2025, when he started to elevate the ball for extra energy. He additionally confirmed an elite batting eye, accumulating extra walks than strikeouts, and is closing in on being a Brandon Nimmo kind whose Gold Glove outlook in heart discipline offers him ample job safety.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .309 BA (437 AB), 20 HR, 17 SB, .907 OPS, 46 BB, 77 Ok
Major league stats: .255 BA (55 AB), 5 HR, .839 OPS, 3 BB, 15 Ok
Lingering beneath the bat-to-ball expertise and line-drive strategy that outlined Stewart’s time within the decrease minors was a hopeful slugger who broke by in an enormous manner final yr, delivering exit velocities on par with Corey Seager and Manny Machado at Triple-A earlier than making his presence identified in September. The Gavin Lux commerce this offseason appeared to clear the trail for him, too.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A
Minor league stats: .288 BA (125 AB), 5 HR, 9 SB, .831 OPS, 20 BB, 33 Ok
Rainer has been all the things the Tigers dreamed he could be after they took him eleventh total in 2024 … besides for taking part in in solely 35 video games. He’ll want to indicate some means to remain wholesome if he is to maintain this excessive rating, however his projectable body, eager batting eye and excessive contact high quality nonetheless level to a middle-of-the-order, Gunnar Henderson-like consequence.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 18
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A
Minor league stats: .300 BA (50 AB), 1 3B, 1 2B, 2 SB, 7 BB, 12 Ok
Great expectations include being the highest total decide, however Willits confirmed his polish in his first skilled look, holding his personal as a 17-year-old in a full-season league. He’ll have to develop into some energy to make all of it value it, however the full package deal is paying homage to Trea Turner.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A
Minor league stats: .270 BA (374 AB), 9 HR, 44 SB, .757 OPS, 34 BB, 68 Ok
A sizzling begin mixed with an enormous exit velocity leap had evaluators turning cartwheels over Pena early on, and enthusiasm remained excessive at the same time as he hit .168 after transferring as much as High-A. Between his doubtless transition to second base and his still-fledgling energy, it is simple to see one other Brice Turang right here, however you would not be loopy to dream on an excellent increased ceiling offensively, given his youth.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .290 BA (427 AB), 20 HR, 10 SB, .878 OPS, 60 BB, 122 Ok
Major league stats: .300 BA (60 AB), 3 HR, .941 OPS, 9 BB, 12 Ok
The Royals have discovered their inheritor to Salvador Perez in Jensen, who arrived in September with a 95.4 mph common exit velocity and 13 p.c stroll price. The Triple-A numbers weren’t far off, making for a attainable famous person consequence and sure making certain Perez spends much more of his time at DH this yr.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: 5-8, 5.26 ERA, 1.49 WHIP, 118 IP, 47 BB, 123 Ok
Much like Spencer Strider, Andrew Painter misplaced his once-elite fastball form on the street again from Tommy John surgical procedure and seemed nothing just like the 19-year-old who put collectively a 1.56 ERA, 0.89 WHIP and 13.5 Ok/9 whereas climbing to Double-A in 2023. As such, he brings appreciable danger, however the scouting studies stay bullish amid whispers of a attainable mechanical repair, specifically elevating his arm slot.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: didn’t play — draft yr
The third total decide and consensus high pitcher within the 2025 draft stands out most for his polish and pitchability, that includes a fleshed-out arsenal with a few high-spin breakers and powerful command of all the things. Though some who rank behind him right here will end up higher, he’ll transfer quick and is all however sure to matter.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
28. Zyhir Hope, OF, Dodgers
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .266 BA (458 AB), 13 HR, 27 SB, .804 OPS, 79 BB, 143 Ok
Though one of many largest prospect risers a yr in the past, Hope’s transfer up the ladder this yr revealed how uncooked he’s as a hitter, struggling towards offspeed stuff and lacking too many hittable pitches. He nonetheless throttles the ball, although, and is quick sufficient to be a prolific base-stealer as effectively.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .266 BA (364 AB), 20 HR, .883 OPS, 66 BB, 87 Ok
Briceno set the Arizona Fall League on fireplace two years in the past and went on to ship a .296/.422/.602 slash line in 55 video games at High-A final yr. He lastly hit a wall at Double-A, dragging down his full-season numbers, however even there, he demonstrated the type of plate self-discipline and exit velocity readings which are certain to maneuver him off catcher in order that he can attain the large leagues sooner.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A
Minor league stats: .290 BA (290 AB), 16 HR, 35 SB, .948 OPS, 49 BB, 78 Ok
Between the key league-caliber exit velocities, the swing that is already optimized for energy, and the superlative plate self-discipline (highlighted by a 14 p.c stroll price and 90 p.c zone-contact price), Florentino already seems like an entire hitter regardless of taking part in all of 2025 as an 18-year-old. He’s unlikely to stay so prolific a base-stealer, however I’d hesitate to place limits on his potential proper now.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .289 BA (484 AB), 18 HR, 29 SB, .892 OPS, 96 BB, 106 Ok
The Diamondbacks system could make for some fakeouts as a result of their high two ranges are so hitter-friendly, however Waldschmidt was simply as productive at High-A as at Double-A in a season cut up evenly between the 2. The energy is middling, relying closely on his means to elevate and pull the ball, however he is an on-base service provider with sufficient base-stealing prowess to dream on a Christian Yelich consequence.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 27
Where he performed in 2025: Japan
NPB stats: 10-5, 1.92 ERA, 0.89 WHIP, 163.2 IP, 45 BB, 178 Ok
Imai’s low-release fastball and reverse-breaking slider make for an uncommon look that led to oodles of success in Japan, however he is older than typical prospects and may’t precisely return to the drafting board if his tips do not work within the majors.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .316 BA (446 AB), 13 HR, 29 2B, .858 OPS, 49 BB, 67 Ok
Major league stats: .298 BA (57 AB), 2 HR, 2 2B, .868 OPS, 9 BB, 12 Ok
Ballesteros’ quick and stout construct makes catcher his solely viable path defensively, and he is blocked twice over there for the Cubs, which you would possibly assume is a deal-breaker within the short-term. The Cubs worth his bat a lot, although, that they are ready at hand over DH duties to him, maybe with the occasional begin at catcher. His swing is geared extra for common than energy, however he impacts the ball effectively sufficient to ship each.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .286 BA (370 AB), 22 HR, .937 OPS, 57 BB, 121 Ok
Major league stats: 5 for 26, 1 HR, 1 2B, 1 BB, 11 Ok
The Marlins have lengthy coveted Caissie and had been lastly in a position to pry him away within the Edward Cabrera deal, all however making certain he’ll have a spot within the opening day lineup. Power has lengthy been his promoting level, and he started to actualize it in 2025 with extra constant exhausting contact and a greater pull-air price, giving him a three-true-outcomes profile which may be 80 p.c of what Kyle Schwarber is.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A
Minor league stats: .281 BA (385 AB), 12 HR, 29 SB, .874 OPS, 75 BB, 101 Ok
Bonemer did not arrive with a lot hype as a second-rounder in 2024, however he was a revelation offensively in his first skilled season, exhibiting an strategy past his years and a swing that is grooved for energy. When he pulls the ball, he hits absolute screamers, and he pulls the ball usually.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .245 BA (302 AB), 9 HR, 12 SB, .813 OPS, 66 BB, 91 Ok
The first decide within the 2024 has misplaced some exit velocity with the transition to wood bats and now depends on angling the ball over the fence, which hasn’t been as efficient. He stays sufficient of an on-base and base-stealing menace to matter, although, even when his energy is modest.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: 9-7, 2.51 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 136 IP, 39 BB, 166 Ok
Though Thomas White (see above) is implicated as effectively, the Marlins’ efforts to release rotation house this offseason doubtless have extra to do with Snelling, who could not break by final September regardless of a 1.27 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, and 11.5 Ok/9 in 11 Triple-A begins. The Marlins purchased low on the previous Padres prospect two years in the past and have restored his misplaced command and velocity.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 10-5, 1.43 ERA, 0.92 WHIP, 113.2 IP, 47 BB, 179 Ok
Major league stats: 2-3, 7.71 ERA, 1.77 WHIP, 18.2 IP, 9 BB, 22 Ok
Tong’s minor-league dominance had him trying like the sport’s high pitching prospect when he arrived in August, however his distinctive fastball, which has a low launch peak regardless of an over-the-top supply, did not baffle main leaguers prefer it did minor leaguers. If it would not work, neither does he. A official breaking ball would do wonders, although, and he maybe wanted extra time at Triple-A to refine his.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: didn’t play — draft yr
The hit price on highschool pitchers who rating huge on draft day is embarrassing, so I can not assist however cringe a bit in slotting Hernandez this excessive. But he is an precise pitching savant, judging by the studies, with a fastball and changeup that each price close to the highest of the scales already, two breaking balls that path shut behind, and a flair for throwing strikes. Time will inform.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A, High-A
Minor league stats: .276 BA (301 AB), 20 HR, .954 OPS, 54 BB, 65 Ok
Rodriguez is aware of the distinction between balls and strikes, excels at elevating to his pull facet, and has hit a ball as exhausting as 111 mph, and he solely turned 19 within the offseason. Given the abilities he is flashing at such a younger age, he is on observe to be the sport’s high catching prospect sometime.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: 3.1 IP, 3 H, 1 ER, 2 BB, 6 Ok
Doyle’s splitter, which comes from a excessive launch level regardless of a standard arm slot, is a uncommon sight from a left-hander and pairs completely together with his best-in-class-type fastball (which earns a 75 grade from MLB Pipeline and a 70 grade from Baseball America) for large strikeout potential. No surprise the Cardinals made him the fifth decide in final yr’s draft.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 3-5, 3.04 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 91.2 IP, 23 BB, 133 Ok
Major league stats: 0-1, 6.06 ERA, 1.59 WHIP, 16.1 IP, 8 BB, 19 Ok
Tolle’s four-seamer has world-beating journey, seeming to take flight because it crosses dwelling plate, which accounts for his 13.1 Ok/9 price throughout three minor league ranges and eight strikeouts in his main league debut. His struggles after that debut confirmed that his command and secondaries nonetheless want work, however together with his 6-foot-6 construct and 99th percentile extension, that one pitch will probably be making hitters look foolish for years to come back.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: didn’t play — draft yr
The eleventh decide in final yr’s draft is a grasp of manipulation, dropping his arm low to create a flat strategy angle on his fastball and unbelievable horizontal motion on his slider. The supply is paying homage to Chris Sale, solely coming from a pitcher who would not throw as exhausting and stands half a foot shorter.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A
Minor league stats: .333 BA (216 AB), 13 HR, 1.068 OPS, 48 BB, 59 Ok
The Reds could not say no to Gavin Lux in a commerce final offseason, and the Dodgers have one other huge outfield prospect in consequence, having reworked Sirota’s swing to get him again to being the first-round expertise he was earlier than a foul junior yr at Northeastern. He would possibly rank even increased if a knee damage hadn’t ended his season early.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 26
Where he performed in 2025: Japan
NPB stats: .286 BA (220 AB), 24 HR, 1.051 OPS, 38 BB, 71 Ok
The most adorned of this yr’s Japanese imports together with his back-to-back MVP awards, Murakami has prodigious energy that may play in any league however contact points extreme sufficient that they may sink him towards main league pitchers. The modest deal he signed with the White Sox ought to give everybody pause.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .269 BA (208 AB), 6 HR, 10 SB, .839 OPS, 55 BB, 85 Ok
When it involves contact high quality, plate self-discipline and total athleticism, you will not discover many prospects who price higher than Rodriguez, and his hypothetical ceiling used to rank him increased than this. But he is misplaced a lot improvement time to accidents and made so few strides with regard to lowering strikeouts that it is exhausting to stay optimistic at the same time as he stands on the precipice of the majors.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .241 BA (490 AB), 32 HR, .858 OPS, 83 BB, 169 Ok
Now that Montes has reached the higher ranges of the minors, a clearer image is starting to develop, and what that image is telling us is that the Yordan Alvarez comparisons can formally die. Montes might have an identical construct and backstory and be simply as able to placing a cost within the ball, however his hit device is nowhere shut, inflicting him to strike out greater than 30 p.c of the time whereas slashing solely .213/.319/.433 in his first 64 video games at Double-A.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A
Minor league stats: .334 BA (440 AB), 7 HR, 46 SB, .863 OPS, 58 BB, 91 Ok
Detractors wish to see Crawford elevate the ball extra to make the most of his strong exit velocity readings, however he is change into a batting common standout by beating out grounders and slapping the ball the opposite manner. It’s a profile much like his father, Carl Crawford, who ultimately developed a bit energy himself and emerged as a first-rounder in Fantasy when he did.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: 1-4, 3.51 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 56.1 IP, 34 BB, 95 Ok
The “other guy” within the Juan Soto deal that additionally introduced the Nationals again James Wood, C.J. Abrams and MacKenzie Gore, Susana has change into a top-flight expertise in his personal proper, leveraging his 6-foot-7 body for a fastball that peaks at 104 mph. He actually gave the impression to be harnessing his stuff with a late-season transfer as much as Double-A, however his season ended early due to a torn lat that required surgical procedure, amplifying sturdiness issues.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: didn’t play — draft yr
High faculty draft picks make for tough evaluations and even trickier after they have not debuted but, however the scouting studies rave about Parker, highlighting his unusual contact expertise and knack for hammering inside pitches. He’s outfitted to hit for each common and energy, in different phrases.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A
Minor-league stats: .353 BA (68 AB), 0 HR, 2 3B, 2 2B, 16 SB, 13 BB, 11 Ok
Drafted thirty ninth total, Kilby has already proven himself to be one of many largest bargains of the 2025 draft, lighting up Low-A with preternatural plate self-discipline and the type of athleticism that makes for a simple energy/velocity projection. The newness of all of it inclines me to take it simple right here, however my intestine needs to rank him even increased.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A
Minor league stats: .242 BA (99 AB), 1 HR, 7 SB, .674 OPS, 17 BB, 27 Ok
At 6-feet-5, Arquette seems miscast as a shortstop, however most evaluators assume he is rangy sufficient to stay on the place. His dimension portends huge issues on the offensive facet, yielding among the highest exit velocities on the collegiate stage final yr and giving him energy that ought to play to all fields.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A
Minor league stats: 2-4, 3.73 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 82 IP, 15 BB, 90 Ok
The stat line right here will not blow you away, however that is partly to Sloan’s credit score: He was within the strike zone a lot that the hit price ran excessive and the strikeout price low. You can belief the Mariners’ pitching improvement engine to complete off this largely full mission, which in all probability simply hinges on him sequencing his sweeper and changeup higher.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A
Minor league stats: .239 BA (71 AB), 2 HR, 4 2B, .737 OPS, 12 BB, 33 Ok
For being the fourth total decide on this previous yr’s draft, Holliday is a surprisingly polarizing prospect, with advocates pointing to his simple energy and notable bloodlines (his father Matt and brother Jackson are each well-known) and detractors noting the excessive setup and uppercut swing that may inhibit him towards trendy fastballs.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .235 BA (473 AB), 9 HR, 35 SB, .748 OPS, 87 BB, 146 Ok
Lombard seemed like he was starting to ship on his potential lastly when he hit .329 with 23 walks in 24 video games at High-A, however the Yankees promoted him earlier than he may achieve an actual foothold, which led to him floundering at Double-A. The son of a former Georgia soccer recruit (and likewise a serious leaguer) nonetheless stands out for his uncommon mixture of plate self-discipline and athleticism, however he’ll want to show it into manufacturing quickly to retain his excessive prospect standing.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 18
Where he performed in 2025: Dominican Summer League
Minor league stats: .288 BA (191 AB), 4 HR, 33 SB, .859 OPS, 37 BB, 36 Ok
Most retailers establish him as Josuar Gonzalez now, however by no matter identify, final yr’s high worldwide prospect has solely improved his standing from the day he signed. He’s a premium athlete whose protection guarantees to maintain him on the six, and for all that athleticism, he already sizes up balls and strikes effectively and has the type of bat velocity that ought to yield good energy in time.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: 4-5, 4.68 ERA, 1.67 WHIP, 73 IP, 45 BB, 76 Ok
Schultz gave the impression to be on the quick observe after placing collectively a 1.48 ERA over 16 Double-A begins in 2024, the mix of a low launch level and unbelievable extension serving to make fast work of hitters. But whether or not due to a nagging knee damage or the inherent problem in repeating a 6-foot-10 supply, his velocity dipped and his management deserted him, presenting new danger but additionally a buy-low alternative.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 29
Where he performed in 2025: Japan
NPB stats: .322 BA (270 AB), 15 HR, .992 OPS, 34 BB, 36 Ok
Okamoto’s numbers are much more spectacular within the context of the NPB going by a dead-ball interval proper now, and whereas his age places him a few dozen spots behind Munetaka Murakami on this listing, his vastly superior contact expertise make him the higher guess to click on, as mirrored by his lengthier contract.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Triple-A, majors (postseason solely)
Minor league stats: .264 BA (148 AB), 7 HR, .852 OPS, 28 BB, 28 Ok
Major league stats: 1 for 6, 1 BB, 1 Ok
Now three years into his skilled profession, we nonetheless haven’t got a clue what DeLauter may do when wholesome, as a result of he by no means is, most not too long ago lacking time with a sports activities hernia and damaged hamate bone but additionally having contended with a thrice damaged foot. The few wholesome stretches have all the time been productive, his misplaced improvement time not affecting his means to impression the ball or work the depend, and the Guardians appear able to get what they will out of him within the majors after a baptism by fireplace final postseason.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .274 BA (438 AB), 35 HR, 29 SB, .932 OPS, 58 BB, 179 Ok
An athletic marvel with light-tower energy and shocking velocity, Jones is a YOLO-type decide in Dynasty leagues for what his best-case situation may appear like. His most-likely situation, although, is that he would not quantity to something in any respect as a result of he is too simple to beat by pitchers who know what they’re doing. His large July by which he hit .419 whereas placing out lower than 25 p.c of the time supplied a glimmer of hope, however he gave all of it again within the months that adopted.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .304 BA (342 AB), 18 HR, 23 SB, .934 OPS, 68 BB, 76 Ok
Major league stats: .227 BA (110 AB), 4 HR, 2 SB, .775 OPS, 26 BB, 36 Ok
Beavers has all the time had an elite batting eye, however an improved weight switch led to a spike in exit velocity final yr, turning him into an all-around offensive menace. The energy remains to be the kind that depends on angling the ball off the bat optimally, however he is proven the flexibility to try this and can also be speedy sufficient to make a 20/20 consequence attainable, offered his struggles towards left-handers do not confine him to platoon responsibility.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .315 BA (485 AB), 3 HR, 70 SB, .830 OPS, 68 BB, 105 Ok
Ewing hits the ball with sufficient authority that he may presumably profit from rejiggering his swing for energy, however after the sort of numbers he put up with a line-drive, all-fields strategy, I would depart effectively sufficient alone. If you keep in mind Dustin Pedroia, the unique Laser Show, you could have a way of what Ewing may change into, solely with an excellent increased capability for stolen bases.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .289 BA (454 AB), 20 HR, 25 SB, .844 OPS, 50 BB, 90 Ok
The scouting studies for Culpepper sound positively bored by him, which makes me surprise in the event that they’re trying on the similar participant. The instruments could also be modest, however his first full season noticed him ship extra energy than anticipated and maintain the identical stage of manufacturing after transferring as much as Double-A Wichita, which isn’t any hitter’s paradise. I doubt he is a star, however a Dansby Swanson-like consequence would not appear loopy.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .261 BA (486 AB), 17 HR, 34 SB, .828 OPS, 76 BB, 131 Ok
Williams bounced again properly from an injury-wrecked 2024, significantly in case you simply have a look at his .281/.390/.477 slash line at Double-A and provides him a cross for his bumpy transition to Triple-A. He nonetheless sells out tougher for energy than his 5-foot-7 body suggests he ought to, although. There’s a scrappy leadoff hitter in right here — one who’s extra prone to wind up at second base than shortstop — however his present strategy presents actual batting common danger.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: 3-1, 1.79 ERA, 0.77 WHIP, 45.1 IP, 17 BB, 79 Ok
Though a modest third-round decide in 2023, Sykora has been close to untouchable within the minors thus far, permitting a .120 batting common throughout 4 ranges in 2025 whereas registering 15.7 Ok/9. Unfortunately, he is been damaged loads, too, and can miss all of 2026 recovering from Tommy John surgical procedure.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .283 BA (374 AB), 16 HR, 7 SB, .868 OPS, 74 BB, 88 Ok
Ford’s superior athleticism and superior plate expertise have lengthy stood out at catcher, and whereas his energy projection has diminished over time, he did put the ball over the fence a good quantity in 2025. We’ve seen huge steals totals from him up to now as effectively, and he persistently reached base at over a .400 clip within the minors. His commerce to the Nationals this offseason strikes him out of Cal Raleigh’s shadow and probably into the highlight.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
67. Ralphy Velazquez, 1B, Guardians
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .265 BA (483 AB), 22 HR, .839 OPS, 52 BB, 104 Ok
Velazquez will not seem on each high 100, however the scouting studies have little unfavorable to say about him, no less than on the hitting facet of issues. He delivers top-of-the-scales exit velocities and manages to maintain his strikeouts in test, even with an aggressive transfer as much as Double-A midseason, the place he slashed .330/.405/.589 in 28 video games as a 20-year-old.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
68. Bo Davidson, OF, Giants
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .281 BA (449 AB), 18 HR, 19 SB, .844 OPS, 68 BB, 119 Ok
Prospects come from all corners, and Davidson is a testomony to that, going from an undrafted neighborhood school participant to slashing .327/.437/.605 in his first yr of full-season ball. That was in 2024, however he constructed off it with a 2025 that earned him 60 grades for each energy and velocity from Baseball America. He might find yourself resembling Randy Arozarena for Fantasy.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .270 BA (448 AB), 12 HR, 14 SB, .804 OPS, 57 BB, 130 Ok
The Red Sox drafted Montgomery twelfth total in 2024 with the intention of ready out his ankle damage, however he by no means performed a recreation for considered one of their associates, as a substitute turning into a part of the huge prospect haul for Garrett Crochet. His first skilled season was merely so-so, confirming his appreciable energy projection from each side of the plate however underscoring his want for higher swing choices and an improved launch angle.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A
Minor league stats: 2-4, 3.09 ERA, 1.26 WHIP, 70 IP, 28 BB, 90 Ok
Since drafting him twenty fourth in 2024, the Braves have gone to work on Caminiti, equipping him with a flatter fastball and sweepier slider that each work higher together with his low arm slot. They’ve dropped it even decrease, in actual fact, and added some extension, modeling him increasingly after Chris Sale, and the strikeout potential is turning into obvious. Still an extended option to go, although.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: 8-6, 2.64 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 140 IP, 54 BB, 140 Ok
Even whereas placing out only a batter per inning, Ritchie was among the many hardest pitchers to hit in all of the minors (the place defenses are worse, by the way in which) with a .174 batting common towards, inducing weak contact by intelligent sequencing of his six-pitch arsenal. The stuff is nice sufficient that he may change into extra of a bat-misser if mandatory, however after placing collectively a 3.02 ERA and 1.09 WHIP in his 11 Triple-A begins, he will not want a lot tweaking to get a glance within the majors.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .262 BA (450 AB), 17 HR, 12 SB, .834 OPS, 69 BB, 104 Ok
Arroyo homered simply twice in his 250 plate appearances at Double-A, however the venue had loads to do with it. He persistently punches above his 5-foot-8 body and has a transparent concept what he is doing on the plate, which ought to result in excessive contact and on-base charges.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .282 BA (444 AB), 17 HR, 15 SB, .870 OPS, 58 BB, 112 Ok
Already a affected person hitter, Reimer grew to become a extra opportunistic one in 2025, punishing strikes as his dwelling runs spiked with one of many highest pull-air charges within the minors. He may have much more energy to carve out a task within the majors, although, because it’s unclear that he’ll be capable of stick at third base.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .268 BA (365 AB), 14 HR, .820 OPS, 52 BB, 112 Ok
While he was extra productive than within the little bit we noticed of him in 2024, Condon moved down the defensive spectrum once more in 2025, hitting all-time low at first base, and nonetheless wasn’t impacting the ball such as you’d anticipate of a record-setting school slugger. He has a .376 on-base share to work with, although, and will fare higher with the (*100*)’ new analytically inclined entrance workplace, which plans to present him an extended look this spring.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A
Minor league stats: .287 BA (390 AB), 18 HR, .948 OPS, 95 BB, 91 Ok
Duno is aware of which pitches not to swing at and took some formidable hacks for a 19-year-old, which explains the stellar stat line, however he apparently has some holes in his swing that might spell hassle on the increased ranges. Still, there’s a lot to work with right here and ample time to easy out his tough edges.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A
Minor league stats: 5-7, 2.72 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, 116 IP, 60 BB, 141 Ok
Weirdness is the order of the day at beginning pitcher, and Hopkins’ comes within the type of unrelenting warmth, his deep arsenal of secondaries registering velocities which may have labored for a fastball 30 years in the past. In truth, Baseball America grades 4 of his pitches as 60 or increased. Standing 6-foot-4, he is constructed to tackle the innings, however the important thing will probably be curbing the stroll price that has too usually minimize his outings quick.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .237 BA (481 AB), 29 HR, .826 OPS, 85 BB, 148 Ok
Runaway strikeout charges have lengthy threatened to sink Clifford as a prospect, however his chase and zone-contact charges graded out fairly properly after his transfer as much as Triple-A final yr, together with his strikeout price dropping to a manageable 25 p.c. Passivity would appear to be the problem greater than contact means, in different phrases, which provides me extra hope than ever that Clifford will stick the touchdown within the majors and threaten to hit 40 homers sometime.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor-league stats: 3-4, 2.19 ERA, 1.03 WHIP, 78 IP, 36 BB, 97 Ok
Wiggins overwhelmed minor leaguers final yr with a fastball that brushes triple digits and has a adequate form to make all his secondary choices superfluous. To rank among the many elite pitching prospects, although, he’ll need to show he can go greater than 4 innings at a time.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: didn’t play — draft yr
Witherspoon has but to debut after being drafted fifteenth total final yr, however I can already inform he has the mix of stuff and weirdness that makes for the simplest hurlers in as we speak’s recreation. He loves accumulating pitches (as much as 5 now), can crank his fastball as much as 99 mph, and has an uncommon short-arm supply that makes the ball appear like it is popping out of his ear.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
80. Elmer Rodriguez, SP, Yankees
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: 11-8, 2.58 ERA, 1.07 WHIP, 150 IP, 57 BB, 176 Ok
Once generally known as Elmer Rodriguez-Cruz, this former Red Sox farmhand broke out huge for their division rivals in 2025, combining the ground-ball tendencies of a sinkerballer with the chase of an influence pitcher. Though he throws right-handed, his lanky construct and batted-ball outcomes are paying homage to Cristopher Sanchez, and if his management positive aspects after transferring as much as Double-A escalate from there, he might examine to Sanchez in that manner as effectively.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 10-3, 2.60 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 100.1 IP, 40 BB, 132 Ok
Major league stats: 1-2, 2.33 ERA, 1.09 WHIP, 19.1 IP, 4 BB, 29 Ok
Early would not have the sort of stuff that conjures up poetry (or earns him a outstanding placement on most rank lists), however between the 11.8 Ok/9 at Double- and Triple-A and the even higher numbers in 4 major-league begins, his effectiveness speaks for itself. He merely is aware of easy methods to pitch, taking part in his six pitches off one another so that the entire is bigger than the sum of its components.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
82. Gage Jump, SP, Athletics
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: 9-7, 3.28 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 112.2 IP, 34 BB, 131 Ok
Jump’s ultimate stat line must be put in perspective. He had a 1.61 ERA, 0.82 WHIP and 11.9 Ok/9 in his first 10 appearances however solely a 4.92 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 9.1 Ok/9 in 16 appearances thereafter, diminishing the keenness. He has his sturdy fits, resembling a hypnotic, bouncy supply, a fastball with trendy traits, and an distinctive means to tunnel his secondaries, however there’s extra work to be carried out right here.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: didn’t play — draft yr
The seventeenth decide in final yr’s draft has but to make his skilled debut, however the studies make him out to be the second coming of Kyle Tucker as an influence/velocity menace with a reasonably left-handed swing and premium plate expertise. We’ll discover out this season how true it’s.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 19
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A
Minor league stats: .314 BA (357 AB), 14 HR, 11 SB, .911 OPS, 48 BB, 109 Ok
Few youngsters with thunderous exit velocities have actualized them the way in which Morales has, his towering flies to left having yielded a .351 batting common and .993 OPS in his ultimate 62 video games. But if he is already scuffling with swing-and-miss on the lowest ranges of the minors, then the draw back danger could also be higher than some wish to admit.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Low-A, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .278 BA (479 AB), 8 HR, 12 SB, .723 OPS, 38 BB, 53 Ok
This is a go-along-to-get-along type of decide for me in that I believe Arias’ inventory is inflated as a result of he is younger for his stage and has a real shortstop projection. He did maintain a ten p.c strikeout price throughout three ranges final yr, largely towards pitchers a lot older than them, however he might have needed to flatten his swing an excessive amount of to try this and might want to muster extra energy as he strikes up the ladder.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A
Minor league stats: 3-3, 3.57 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, 75.2 IP, 56 BB, 108 Ok
The consensus is that Smith disillusioned in his first full skilled season as his velocity dipped and stroll price swelled, however he nonetheless had 12.9 Ok/9 and a .164 batting common towards, even whereas battling elbow soreness. His low angle and large extension will make him a troublesome learn for batters even when he would not max out his stuff, and the dip might very effectively be a blip.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 25
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 5-6, 3.47 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 98.2 IP, 42 BB, 119 Ok
Major league stats: 3-1, 2.72 ERA, 1.31 WHIP, 39.2 IP, 6 BB, 38 Ok
Messick was removed from essentially the most notable pitching prospect to obtain a name down the stretch final season, however he was among the many most impactful, delivering 4 high quality begins in seven possibilities with a superb strikeout-to-walk ratio. Too wonderful, maybe. His fastball performs up as a result of he hides and angles it effectively, but it surely nonetheless gave up its share of hits, which may spell hassle if his stroll price backs as much as minor league norms.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 10-4, 3.59 ERA, 1.11 WHIP, 77.2 IP, 24 BB, 87 Ok
Major league stats: 3-0, 1.78 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, 25.1 IP, 8 BB, 33 Ok
All 5 of Henderson’s begins final yr had been wonderful, however they had been at instances months aside because the Brewers repeatedly indicated that they did not view him as considered one of their 5 greatest starters. Somehow, he will get by with out a breaking ball, his fastball and changeup grading out effectively sufficient for him to throw them a mixed 90 p.c of the time, however his extra strange Triple-A numbers might provide a extra full image.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 20
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, Low-A
Minor league stats: .311 BA (315 AB), 9 HR, 27 SB, .862 OPS, 29 BB, 102 Ok
Lewis is a little bit of a try-hard who offers all the things his all, which elevates his already loud athleticism to an ear-piercing shriek, however like most gamers of that ilk, he’ll have to tone it down a bit to harness it into one thing helpful. Few gamers hit the ball tougher when he is in a position to hit it, and since he is additionally a quick runner, you’ll be able to dream on a 30/30 consequence.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: do not depend on it
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: 11-8, 3.53 ERA, 1.20 WHIP, 120 IP, 62 BB, 168 Ok
Watching Lagrange is like seeing Michael Pineda again in a Yankees uniform, one other high-waisted, 6-foot-7 behemoth whose supply is all legs and arms. But Lagrange truly throws exhausting, his fastball peaking at 102 mph. Improving his stroll price from horrendous to only dangerous was the important thing to his breakout in 2025, and he may have one other bump to keep away from a bullpen projection.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
91. Tommy Troy, 2B, Diamondbacks
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .289 BA (499 AB), 15 HR, 24 SB, .833 OPS, 67 BB, 98 Ok
Troy’s stat line would possibly lead you to imagine he ought to rank increased than this, significantly since he was a first-round decide simply two years in the past, however given how hitter-friendly the Diamondbacks’ high two associates are, fakery could also be afoot. His time at Triple-A revealed solely an 86.8 mph common exit velocity.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, High-A
Minor league stats: 3-0, 1.19 ERA, 0.69 WHIP, 30.1 IP, 6 BB, 34 Ok
Murphy was making waves earlier than needing Tommy John surgical procedure in 2024, and he appeared to choose up the place he left off upon returning in 2025, giving him a 1.45 ERA, 0.75 WHIP and 11.7 Ok/9 in his final 13 begins (each pre- and post-surgery) at High-A. What he lacks in velocity he makes up for in spin, giving his fastball spectacular carry despite the fact that it sits 91-92, and his slider is equally a knowledge darling.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 25
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: 8-6, 4.24 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 121 IP, 53 BB, 113 Ok
Major league stats: 0-2, 4.79 ERA, 1.21 WHIP, 20.2 IP, 7 BB, 17 Ok
Sproat has fallen about 60 spots from final yr’s high 100, his strange fastball form having been uncovered together with his transfer as much as Triple-A, however he started emphasizing his sinker because the yr went on and partially salvaged his stat line with a 2.44 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 10.7 Ok/9 over his ultimate 11 begins. He in all probability will not be a lot of a bat-misser on the highest stage, which limits his ceiling, however he does excel at inducing weak grounders.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: combating this spring
Age (on opening day): 21
Where he performed in 2025: didn’t play — draft yr
Though Bremner was technically the second participant drafted in 2025, he was a shocking alternative for that spot after a tumultuous season at UC Santa Barbara by which he misplaced the texture for his breaking ball. His fastball and changeup are each plus-plus choices, with the previous exhibiting the optimum journey and angle to overlook bats and the latter that includes late drop-off, however with out that third pitch, Bremner could also be higher suited for aid.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: late-season look
95. Jonathon Long, 1B, Cubs
Age (on opening day): 24
Where he performed in 2025: Triple-A
Minor league stats: .305 BA (514 AB), 20 HR, .883 OPS, 79 BB, 116 Ok
Performance-wise, there is not a lot unfavorable to say about Long — who understands the strike zone and makes for a secure batting common projection together with his line-drive, all-fields strategy — and perhaps in a distinct group, he’d already be holding down the job. But the trail is slim for proper handed-hitting first baseman, and it is uncertain both Michael Busch or Moises Ballesteros will clear the way in which for him.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .291 BA (406 AB), 5 HR, 48 SB, .842 OPS, 69 BB, 73 Ok
Between his .433 on-base share throughout three stops, his pesky knack for contact, and his sturdy inclination for stealing bases, Antonacci has leadoff hitter written throughout him. These slash-and-burn sorts have been making a comeback in recent times, and Antonacci impacts the ball effectively sufficient to not have the bat blown out of his palms.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A
Minor league stats: .285 BA (488 AB), 22 HR, 22 SB, .819 OPS, 39 BB, 124 Ok
Formerly a swing-at-everything kind, Alderman grew to become only a smidge extra selective in 2025 and will have emerged as a official prospect within the course of. The actual eye-opener was his 20-game stint at Triple-A, the place he not solely slashed .303/.341/.671 but additionally delivered really prodigious exit velocities, with a mean of 95 mph and a peak of 114.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 25
Where he performed in 2025: Double-A, Triple-A, majors
Minor league stats: .279 BA (358 AB), 19 HR, 18 SB, .917 OPS, 52 BB, 146 Ok
Major league stats: .255 BA (47 AB), 4 HR, 3 SB, .880 OPS, 5 BB, 20 Ok
Cole is type of the Walmart model of Spencer Jones, racking up dwelling runs and steals within the minors — all of that are backed up by the information — however placing out at such a excessive price (upward of 35 p.c) that you must assume it will not work within the majors. Except in Cole’s case, it sort of has, permitting him to grab an on a regular basis job for the Astros over the ultimate two weeks of final season. Skepticism stays excessive for now, however he deserves your consideration.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: pencil him in
Age (on opening day): 22
Where he performed in 2025: High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .286 BA (458 AB), 26 HR, .896 OPS, 56 BB, 130 Ok
Valdez went on the assault in 2025, having discovered that passivity solely yields extra strikeouts, and the outcomes had been fairly good — not simply in the course of the common season but additionally within the Arizona Fall League, the place he slashed .368/.513/.842 with eight homers in 19 video games. He could also be overcalibrated for energy, with a steep bat path and dead-pull strategy that might yield issues towards the excessive warmth and superior breaking balls nonetheless to come back.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
Age (on opening day): 23
Where he performed in 2025: Rookie, High-A, Double-A
Minor league stats: .262 BA (321 AB), 20 HR, 17 SB, .881 OPS, 47 BB, 83 Ok
Riggio’s comedian guide identify and aggressive fireplace made him a fan favourite within the Yankees system, however he has a greater probability of a future with the (*100*), who might overlook his restricted protection and unlucky platoon splits for an opportunity at a Brandon Lowe consequence.
Scott’s 2026 Fantasy impression: midseason hopeful
