Fantasy Baseball 2026: Must-Have Prospects to Stash Before Your League Draft
When the draft day approaches, savvy fantasy baseball managers know the key to building a championship roster often lies in securing promising prospects. As we look ahead to the 2026 season, several emerging talents are poised to break into the majors and make a significant impact. Here’s a list of must-have prospects that should be on your radar as you prepare for your league draft.
1. Jackson Holliday, SS, Baltimore Orioles
Age: 20 | ETA: 2026
Holliday, the son of former major leaguer Matt Holliday, has already made a name for himself in the Orioles’ system. His advanced hit tool and ability to make consistent contact have made him a player to watch. In 2025, he posted an impressive slash line of .302/.370/.520 in Double-A. His combination of speed and power makes him a valuable asset for any fantasy team, especially in a league that rewards stolen bases.
2. Kumar Rocker, RHP, Texas Rangers
Age: 23 | ETA: 2026
Kumar Rocker has shown elite stuff since being drafted third overall in 2022. His fastball reaches the upper 90s, complemented by a devastating slider and an improving changeup. After a solid season in the minors, Rocker is expected to make his major league debut in 2026. His strikeout potential and ability to limit walks can translate to immediate fantasy relevance, especially in dynasty leagues.
3. Elly De La Cruz, SS/3B, Cincinnati Reds
Age: 24 | ETA: 2026
De La Cruz burst onto the scene with his exceptional athleticism and impressive power. The switch-hitting phenom has shown his ability to impact the game in multiple ways, leading to a .295/.367/.557 line in Triple-A last season. The Reds are gradually positioning him to take over a key infield role, making De La Cruz a must-stash as he could become a multi-category contributor.
4. James Wood, OF, Washington Nationals
Age: 22 | ETA: 2026
Wood’s combination of size, speed, and power creates a significant upside for fantasy owners. Standing at 6’7″, his raw athleticism has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s top power hitters. Last year, he posted a remarkable .980 OPS in the minors. With the Nationals looking to rebuild, Wood is likely to receive ample opportunity in 2026.
5. Brock Porter, RHP, Texas Rangers
Age: 21 | ETA: 2026
Porter’s meteoric rise through the Rangers’ system has captured the attention of fantasy enthusiasts. With a repertoire featuring a high-velocity fastball and a nasty slider, he has consistently dominated minor league hitters. His 2025 season saw him post a 2.45 ERA with high strikeout rates. If he continues on this path, he could emerge as a fantasy ace in the near future.
6. Zach Neto, SS, Los Angeles Angels
Age: 24 | ETA: 2026
Zach Neto was highly regarded coming out of college and has lived up to the hype in the Angels’ system. Known for his contact skills and defensive abilities, Neto can hold his own at the plate, hitting .290 with decent power in his minor league stints. As the Angels look to build a stronger lineup, Neto’s position could provide immediate value, especially in points leagues.
7. Matt Mervis, 1B, Chicago Cubs
Age: 25 | ETA: 2026
Mervis had an excellent minor league season and showed he can hit for both average and power. With a strong showing in the minors, he managed to post a .339 average along with 25 home runs combined across levels in 2025. As the Cubs look to bolster their infield, Mervis is an intriguing option that could emerge as a valuable first baseman for fantasy owners.
8. Jordan Walker, OF, St. Louis Cardinals
Age: 23 | ETA: 2026
After a promising debut in 2023, Jordan Walker has continued to elevate his game in the minors. Blessed with tremendous power and a high contact rate, he posted a .295 average with 21 home runs in Triple-A last season. Set to be an everyday outfielder for the Cardinals, Walker’s ability to produce runs makes him an essential pick, especially in deeper leagues.
9. Spencer Torkelson, 1B, Detroit Tigers
Age: 26 | ETA: 2026
Torkelson has been on the radar for many fantasy managers since being drafted first overall in 2021. After a couple of inconsistent seasons, he broke out in the second half last year, showing signs of the power-hitting prospect everyone expected. With a healthy 30-homer potential, he is a great candidate to stash heading into 2026.
10. Sal Frelick, OF, Milwaukee Brewers
Age: 24 | ETA: 2026
Frelick, known for his advanced approach at the plate, has the potential to be a top-of-the-order hitter. His speed and ability to get on base lead to run production and consistent scoring opportunities. Frelick displayed a strong on-base percentage and solid batting average in Triple-A last season. Expect him to contribute significantly in all formats, especially roto leagues.
Keeping an Eye on Other Rising Stars
Though the mentioned players steal the spotlight, several other prospects warrant attention:
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Tristan Casas, 1B, Boston Red Sox: After establishing himself in the majors, Casas has the potential for consistent 30-plus home runs with a respectable batting average.
- TJ Friedl, OF, Cincinnati Reds: Known for his on-base skills and speed, Friedl could develop into a starting outfield option while being an asset in stolen bases.
Final Thoughts
Stashing these prospects not only increases your team’s potential but can dramatically influence your league’s competitive landscape. As the season progresses, keeping an eye on their development in the minors along with any news about their call-up should be part of your strategy. By securing these future stars now, you’ll position yourself for success when your league draft comes around.
