2026 Fantasy Baseball Rankings: Konnor Griffin Rises, JJ Wetherholt Makes Debut

As the Grapefruit and Cactus Leagues gain momentum, the 2026 Fantasy Baseball Top 300 is set for regular updates leading up to Opening Day. Players are ranked for 5×5 mixed leagues utilizing a one-catcher format, with an emphasis on upside, particularly for those beyond the top 200.

In a significant update, several players have seen their rankings shift, reflecting changes in lineup projections and the overall landscape of the league. Among those falling off the list are Pablo López, Zac Gallen, Jake McCarthy, Max Scherzer, and Jac Caglianone, who has been pushed to the bottom of the rankings.

One notable trend is the rise of relievers, who have been pushed up in the rankings due to a scarcity of reliable save options this season. For instance, Kenley Jansen has jumped from No. 174 to No. 146, not due to a change in projections, but rather the increasing demand for mid-tier closers. This shift reflects a broader strategy adjustment for many fantasy managers.

Position player rankings have also been impacted by new lineup dynamics. Jo Adell, who was projected as the Angels’ cleanup hitter, now appears likely to bat sixth, trailing behind Yoán Moncada and Jorge Soler. Meanwhile, Noelvi Marte of the Reds has seen a drop in his ranking due to uncertainty around his batting order position, potentially starting as low as eighth. Conversely, Matt McLain has seen a rise as he’s expected to take over for Marte in the lineup.

Another key shift involves Kyle Tucker, who is now likely to bat second for the Dodgers, moving him up from 13th to 10th in the rankings. On the other hand, Fernando Tatis Jr. has slipped slightly as the Padres appear to be moving him from the leadoff spot, though he remains ahead of Nick Kurtz.

Yordan Alvarez has dropped a few spots as the Astros’ outfield logjam will necessitate him playing there occasionally, impacting his potential as a designated hitter. With both Christian Walker and Isaac Paredes remaining with their teams, Paredes has fallen to No. 171, while Walker has dropped to No. 261. Paredes could be a much higher pick if he had a guaranteed regular role, particularly given his talent.

Konnor Griffin has surged up the rankings, climbing 20 spots to No. 193 after hitting three early homers, though he is still projected to start in the minors. If the Pirates were to announce him as their starting shortstop, his ranking could rise significantly. He possesses the potential for 30-40 steals but faces questions about his batting average and power, especially in a challenging ballpark for right-handed hitters.

JJ Wetherholt of the Cardinals is increasingly likely to secure a starting second base job, though his value may be limited in shallow leagues due to the overall strength of the Cardinals lineup. Currently ranked at No. 264, he could aim for around 15 homers and 15 steals, but his contributions in runs and RBIs might be minimal if he bats lower in the order.

This week has been challenging for several players, including Spencer Schwellenbach, Shane Bieber, and Josh Hader, all of whom have seen their rankings tumble due to injury concerns. Schwellenbach, who previously ranked 19th among starting pitchers, now sits at 48th after landing on the 60-day IL.

In terms of pitching, Framber Valdez’s signing with the Tigers has propelled him from 21st to 15th among starters. Although the Tigers’ offense may not match last year’s success, their solid defense and bullpen make it an attractive situation for pitchers. Nick Martinez, who recently signed with the Rays, has also seen a significant jump in his ranking to No. 65, benefiting from Tampa Bay’s strong defensive support.

As the rankings continue to evolve, the landscape of fantasy baseball is shifting rapidly, with emerging players and strategic adjustments shaping the way managers approach their drafts.

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