Shohei Otani anchors the 2026 fantasy baseball landscape, offering elite multi-category value as both hitter and pitcher. Landing him in the top spot is a game-changer for any head-to-head or roto format, even with innings questions. Second- and third-round targets pivot around Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, who combine power with strong counting stats and top-tier plate discipline. Bobby Witt Jr., Ellie De La Cruz, and Jose Ramirez form the next crest of the ladder, each bringing unique mix of power, speed, and durability that fantasy rosters crave. The episode also glances at Paul Skenes as a ceiling-raising pitcher, Kyle Schwarber, Junior Caminero, and J-Rod as high-upside options, with captain-like value from Ronald Acuña Jr. and veterans like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman remaining relevant in early rounds.

Rising arms spark a fresh core as a club leans into budding upside. A signed top-three starter anchors the rotation while a trio of young hurlers shows a live repertoire, signaling a potential shift in how the team builds from the mound. Payton Burdick emerges as a bullpen candidate, with velocity and late-inning intrigue, though questions linger about role certainty and secondary-pitch development. Fantasy managers should watch bullpen assignments closely and gauge how quickly these arms gain routine trust in leverage spots.

In this environment, upside roars louder than proven track records. The window for big fantasy returns hinges on Burdick’s ability to command multiple pitches for strikes and to avoid short stints that cap innings. If the club leans on the bullpen and the prospect group evolves, opportunistic managers can capitalize in holds leagues and DFS when the matchup and venue align.

Anthony Volpe’s underlying numbers hint at a rebound, but his plate discipline continues to sink him. With playoff races tightening, managers wonder if a hold is worth it or a swap is better.

Jack Flaherty has cratered lately: 26 frames, 24 strikeouts, an ERA north of 4, and rising hard contact with a troubling HR/FB rate. The breakdown leaves fantasy squads chasing safer options.

Palencia’s IL stint pushes Brad Keller into saves duty, while Tanner Scott and Kikuchi draw bench-spot risk. Xavier Edwards, Correa, and Tol get lumped in as caution flags. Keller stands out as the clearest immediate add as the week unfolds.