2026 Fantasy Baseball ADP Risers: Key Prospects to Watch Before Draft Day

As Opening Day approaches, fantasy baseball enthusiasts are gearing up for their drafts, which are likely set to take place in the coming days. With the clock ticking, players’ draft positions are shifting rapidly, making it essential to stay informed on the latest trends. Each week, we’ve been spotlighting notable risers in fantasy baseball Average Draft Position (ADP), and today, we’ll delve into three players who could make a significant impact on your roster.

Starting with a player who has caught the eye of many, Rafaela has seen his ADP shift from 146 to 132.5 over the past two weeks, marking a decline of 13.5 positions. While traditionally, fantasy managers might shy away from players batting lower in their lineups, Rafaela’s impressive showing this spring warrants attention. He has recorded two home runs, eight RBIs, four steals, and an impressive .345 batting average over 29 at-bats. His role is secure in the Red Sox lineup, bolstered by his Gold Glove recognition from last season. Moreover, Rafaela’s dual eligibility adds to his appeal, particularly in a hitter-friendly environment like Fenway Park.

Next on the list is the Rays’ Ryan Rasmussen, whose ADP has shifted from 170.6 to 158.7, a decrease of 11.9 spots. Recently named the Opening Day starter against the St. Louis Cardinals, Rasmussen is generating buzz among fantasy managers. The return to Tropicana Field from George M. Steinbrenner Field should provide a boost for all Rays pitchers this season. Although Rasmussen’s spring performance was less than stellar, with a 4.91 ERA and 1.50 WHIP across 14.2 innings, his health and consistency could lead to ample innings in the regular season. As the 45th starting pitcher in terms of ADP, he presents a solid option for those looking to round out their rotation.

Lastly, let’s discuss Detroit’s prized prospect, McGonigle, who currently sits at an ADP of 197.2, down from 205.7. Hailed as MLB.com’s No. 2 overall prospect, McGonigle has garnered significant hype this spring. Although the Tigers have yet to confirm whether he will make the Opening Day roster, his performance has been noteworthy, featuring two home runs, six RBIs, and an impressive 11 walks to eight strikeouts in 52 plate appearances. Yahoo analyst Fred Zinkie suggests that McGonigle’s spring performance has positioned him as a valuable fantasy asset. Even if he starts the season in Triple-A, there’s a strong possibility of a call-up in the early weeks of 2026. He could be a worthwhile late-round pick as a stash option, allowing for flexibility if he doesn’t break camp with the team.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.