San Francisco Giants RHP Logan Webb did not lead the premier leagues in victories, strikeouts, earned run average, or walks plus hits per inning pitched last season. Indeed, he has not yet headed MLB in any of these metrics. Webb did, nonetheless, top all hurlers in both starts and innings pitched in the prior season. This is not uncharted territory for Webb, who has been first across all of baseball in these measures since the commencement of the 2022 season. Webb does more than simply log innings, though. He holds the third position in wins and showcases a 3.22 ERA with a 1.17 WHIP throughout that timeframe. Webb is not the finest pitcher in baseball, but he persists, notwithstanding uncommon steadfastness and dependability, as somehow undervalued.
In fact, Webb might not rank within the initial ten starting pitchers chosen in your league’s draft, but he merits this consideration. In an environment where only a handful of hurlers emerge unharmed from significant arm ailments, Webb stands as the rarity. The Giants and fantasy managers can depend on his resilience and robust output. Webb’s ERA is unable to equal that of, say, Los Angeles Dodgers LHP Blake Snell, and Webb is without Snell’s Cy Young accolades, but reliability holds significance. Inquire of anyone who committed early funds to Snell, Corbin Burnes, Cole Ragans, George Kirby, and Gerrit Cole last season if they would have rather had a 200-inning individual instead.
As is customary, this season’s “Do Draft” roster is considerably more optimistic than its ESPN accompanying article, the “Do NOT Draft” list, for it is radiating with athletes in whom I eagerly opt to commit resources, at least in conjunction with the typical draft position (ADP). Ultimately, it continues to hinge on worth. No, Webb does not command a first-round selection. He is, however, a premier hurler and a foundational element. Webb is consistently a strong asset, and he’s now concluding his inaugural 200-strikeout season. Do not disappoint us this season, Logan!
Webb is among numerous athletes who habitually appear on my various squads, be they simulated drafts or the actual competitive ones. You ought to consistently employ a blend of statistical evidence and personal intuition to identify the athletes you desire on your teams, and I confess I lean more towards being a roto/categories fantasy participant rather than a points-league expert, so my subsequent perspectives mirror this. In the long run, irrespective of the points structure, it invariably concerns assessing ability and merit.
Additional athletes to acquire frequently
Catcher
To be precise, catcher is almost the final position where I specifically aim for athletes. Backstops conspicuously participate less than other fielders, frequently owing to ailments, and they commonly continue playing while injured and perform poorly. Should they manage to deviate from that pattern during a single season (like Cal Raleigh in 2025), it scarcely implies a recurrence is imminent. In ESPN leagues, requiring merely a single active backstop, I typically defer until the latter stages of drafts.
I would suggest that Dodgers seasoned player Will Smith represents an anomaly, as he seldom commands a pick within the top 75 and scarcely any catchers provide his five-category steadiness. No other squad presents such a blend of a potent and profound batting order. … Atlanta Braves C Drake Baldwin performed splendidly in his debut season and, given the team’s designated hitter slot is vacant, he is expected to see increased playing time this season. … Bear in mind that Minnesota Twins primary catcher Ryan Jeffers launched 21 homers in 2024 and frequently draws walks. Fantasy general managers ought not presume that events from two campaigns prior are incapable of repeating.
Deeper: Cincinnati Reds primary catcher Tyler Stephenson belted 19 long balls two years prior. Should he manage the demands, he is undervalued. … Atlanta’s Sean Murphy has not been fit since 2023, nor is he currently, yet the strength and potential opening persist. … Washington Nationals newcomer Harry Ford is expected to swipe ten or more bags and maintain a respectable batting average, at minimum. … Miami Marlins fresh face Joe Mack exhibits potential for power. … The same applies to Giants reserve and Rule 5 selection Daniel Susac.
First base
Dodgers seasoned player Freddie Freeman might be slipping excessively in drafts. He represents the Webb equivalent among first basemen, offering consistent, reliable figures. Would it be astonishing if he secures his inaugural batting crown? … What actions must Chicago Cubs prospective leadoff batter Michael Busch undertake to merit a top-100 ADP? Although he might face an increased volume of southpaw pitching this campaign, he could also tally 100 runs. … I am reluctant to presume Tampa Bay Rays primary player Jonathan Aranda is incapable of hitting 25 long balls. He demolishes right-handed hurlers. He appears undervalued. … Houston Astros primary player Christian Walker ought to feel more at ease in his sophomore season with the team. Anticipate his resurgence to 35 home runs. His ADP is underwhelming.
Deeper: Similar to Walker, Texas Rangers primary player Jake Burger might never vie for a batting championship, yet I am overlooking his challenging debut season in Texas. A possibility for 35 long balls is present. … Pittsburgh Pirates primary player (and potential leadoff choice against right-handed pitchers) Spencer Horwitz undeniably reaches base. He should be reliable for batting average and could hit 15 or more long balls. … Provide me with all the Rhys Hoskins stock. His ADP is projected to keep climbing. This individual serves as Cleveland’s designated hitter and poses a definite 30-homer danger when fit.
Second base
Baltimore Orioles primary player Jackson Holliday (hand) will probably commence the season on the injured list, yet 25/25 upside persists, ultimately. His ailment has driven his ADP excessively low. Capitalize on this opportunity. … Twins young talent Luke Keaschall possesses sufficient speed and assertiveness to swipe 50 bags, and enough self-control to achieve a .350 OBP. Seek him out with a middle-round ADP. … Philadelphia Phillies primary player Bryson Stott has averaged 29 pilfered bases across three seasons, and he posted .294/.368/.487 in the latter half of 2025. … Toronto Blue Jays infielder Ernie Clement, a playoff standout, is eligible at three
infield positions. It’s plausible to envision him hitting over 15 home runs. … The swift New York Yankees player, Jose Caballero, managed to swipe 93 bases in the previous two campaigns. He qualifies for three infield positions and the outfield area.
Deeper: I am astonished that Colorado Rockies pre-season acquisition Willi Castro is neglected in average draft position. Castro will frequently be in the lineup; he pilfered 33 bags a couple of seasons prior, and competing in half his contests at Coors Field is certainly advantageous. … San Diego Padres starter Jake Cronenworth achieved an on-base percentage of .367. He recorded 17 home runs and 83 RBIs two years back, and he may bat first in the order this campaign. … Luis Rengifo, who swiped 24 bags two years prior, is fit and likely to commence play at the hot corner for the astute Milwaukee Brewers squad.
Shortstop
It is comprehensible that Orioles standout Gunnar Henderson slipped beyond the opening round after an underwhelming season for power hitting, but examine those impressive 2024 statistics. He is 25. He is poised to excel once more. … Los Angeles Angels star Zach Neto commenced last season belatedly following an operation on his shoulder and yet neared the 30/30 mark. He is valued appropriately, but his peak performance is yet to come, so paying a premium could be justified.
Giants starter Willy Adames and Cubs starter Dansby Swanson are not contenders for the batting title, but they both exhibit reliable power, quickness, and resilience for their average draft position in the middle rounds. … Pirates rookie Konnor Griffin could soon be slightly overvalued in average draft position, but it could still prove beneficial. The shortstop position offers ample talent. There will be available players in more comprehensive leagues if the Pirates unwisely send down their upcoming star due to monetary considerations.
Deeper: For example, St. Louis Cardinals up-and-comer JJ Wetherholt and Detroit Tigers young talent Kevin McGonigle could secure starting positions on Opening Day. They do not possess Griffin’s power potential, but they are capable performers, and they carry a modest average draft position. … Yankees starter Anthony Volpe begins the campaign on the injured list. Despite his modest batting average, he has averaged 17 long balls and 23 stolen bases over three campaigns. There are less favorable options.
Third base
I don’t discern many secure, dependable selections in the latter portion of drafts, so I may be more inclined to acquire steady Padres standout Manny Machado at an early stage, or Giants infielder Matt Chapman within the top 100 picks. Chapman is a player known for drawing walks, with 27 homers in three of five seasons, and a value pick in the middle rounds. … It may feel like experienced Astro Isaac Paredes isn’t guaranteed consistent playing time, but he possesses too much pop to be sidelined. He has posted an average of 26 long balls per 162 contests throughout his career. … I rarely commend Phillies starter Alec Bohm, but his average draft position has declined excessively. He will bat in the cleanup spot once more, and he did drive in 97 runs on two occasions with respectable batting averages in 2023-24.
Deeper: Veteran Arizona Diamondbacks up-and-comer Jordan Lawlar, currently playing center field, will at last (thankfully) unleash the power and quickness many have anticipated for a long time. An excellent choice in the later rounds! … There is no obstacle preventing Cardinals slugger Nolan Gorman from ultimately reaching 30 long balls. A few base hits to bolster his batting average would also be welcome. … I don’t know how the Padres can allocate 400 plate appearances (and 20 home runs) for both third baseman Miguel Andujar and outfielder Nick Castellanos, but I would invest to discover in comprehensive leagues. … Phillies situational player Otto Kemp is expected to produce offensively. … As will Dodgers rookie Alex Freeland.
Outfield
Astros star Yordan Alvarez failed to achieve 30 long balls last campaign, but he accomplished this in the preceding four years. My conviction is that he will hit 30 home runs once more in 2026. … Boston Red Sox initial batter in the lineup Roman Anthony will ultimately transition to the third position in the batting order. Possesses too much pop, possibly 35-homer potential, in the near future. … Athletics slugger Brent Rooker is still considered a candidate for 40 long balls. … Disregard what Padres star Jackson Merrill‘s performance last season while sidelined. Do not anticipate 30 home runs or 20 stolen bases, yet he will deliver offensively.
We should not presume Blue Jays veteran George Springer is incapable of replicating his remarkable 2025 campaign. Should he participate in 140 contests once more, he is capable. … As with Merrill, I am disregarding the events concerning Rockies outfielder Brenton Doyle. We know a prospective top-20 outfielder is hidden. … Doyle’s teammate Jordan Beck also possesses greater potential. … Tigers slugger Kerry Carpenter must rediscover his previous walk percentage. If successful, he is capable of hitting 35 long balls. … Yankees slugger Trent Grisham recently amassed 34 home runs and drew 82 walks, and are you asserting *conclusively* that he cannot achieve this once more? Pray tell, why not?
Deeper: Well, recent Angels addition Josh Lowe did achieve a combination of 20 long balls and 32 stolen bases in 2023. This resulted in an .835 on-base plus slugging. He is not excessively aged. … Rangers OF Evan Carter also exhibits some fragility, but he is 23, is swift, and he is adept at drawing walks. Fantasize about it. … The Cleveland Guardians anticipate significant accomplishments from rookie Chase DeLauter. Simply. Remain. Fit. … I predict less on Phillies rookie Justin Crawford batting over .250 or swiping 40 bags, but he is expected to see considerable playing time. … It appears too soon to abandon hope for Astros kid Cam Smith. … Ryan Waldschmidt is set to make his debut in April and both power and quickness are present here. … Consider a gamble, in truly comprehensive leagues, on the Rays’ Jonny DeLuca, Pirates base thief Jake Mangum, Astros up-and-comer Zach Cole, Cardinals young talent Joshua Baez and the Marlins’ Christopher Morel and Griffin Conine.
Starting pitcher
I like to secure a foundational starting pitcher these days, even if they are not a value at their average draft position (like Webb). That is acceptable, too. … Phillies right-hander Zack Wheeler (rotator cuff) will log over 25 starts, and the remaining statistics will be favorable. … I harbor some concern regarding Twins right-hander Joe Ryan with an aching back and performing for an underperforming team, but I cannot overlook his strikeout percentages and a lifetime 1.06 walks plus hits per inning pitched. Since Ryan made his inaugural appearance, merely five pitchers boast a superior WHIP. … New Tiger Framber Valdez has dropped excessively in average draft position. … It also seems like scarcely anyone believes Padres right-hander Nick Pivetta can replicate his previous performance. … I am compelled to believe healthy Braves right-hander Spencer Strider reverts to his 2023 earned run average/WHIP and 200 strikeouts are a strong possibility.
Scarcely anyone appears to pursue new Red Sox right-hander Sonny Gray, but his are comparatively secure, consistent statistics. … I do not anticipate over 25 Nathan Eovaldi starts, but similar to his colleague Jacob deGrom, the appearances he makes will be effective and deGrom demands a significantly higher price. … You might not desire Rays right-hander Drew Rasmussen in a quality starts league, but all other statistics are robust. … Mariners right-hander Luis Castillo continues to be reliable. His average draft position has declined excessively. … No, Orioles left-hander Trevor Rogers is unable to perform *that* well once more, but what prevents us from expecting characteristic “Luis Castillo statistics” from him? … I accept the performance of Cubs left-hander Matthew Boyd in 2026, though I might be an isolated opinion. … I accept the performance of Phillies right-hander Aaron Nola prior to 2026, though again, I might be an isolated opinion.
Deeper: Diamondbacks right-hander Merrill Kelly is more proficient than commonly perceived. If fit, he represents a top-50 starting pitcher. … Padres right-hander Joe Musgrove certainly appears fit and has reverted to his former self. … What impedes White Sox right-hander Shane Smith from replicating his debut season? The squad is projected to show slight enhancement. … Even a partial season from Yankees right-hander Gerrit Cole merits selection in ESPN league formats. … Twins right-hander Zebby Matthews has become among the most favored analytical prospects out there with good cause. … The Guardians consistently manage to stabilize their pitching rotation, and left-handers Joey Cantillo and Parker Messick are each expected to make over 20 starts.
Others: Astros right-hander Mike Burrows, Blue Jays right-hander Jose Berrios, Mets right-hander Clay Holmes, Atlanta right-handers Grant Holmes and Reynaldo Lopez … and, in due course, Diamondbacks right-hander Corbin Burnes, Cubs left-hander Justin Steele and Pirates right-hander Jared Jones.
Relief pitcher
I generally steer clear of elite closers but — with an emphasis on saves here — will feel confident with Atlanta right-hander Raisel Iglesias, Reds right-hander Emilio Pagan, Cubs right-hander Daniel Palencia and Tigers right-hander Kenley Jansen. … Subsequently, I anticipate saves from Brewers right-hander Abner Uribe, Rays right-hander Griffin Jax and Athletics right-hander Justin Sterner. … For an appealing blend of saves and holds, it is challenging to surpass Astros right-hander Bryan Abreu.
Deeper: Even *further on*, what about some saves (and holds) from Jays right-hander Louis Varland, Diamondbacks right-hander Paul Sewald (indeed, once more), Reds right-hander Tony Santillan, Phillies right-hander Brad Keller, Mets right-hander Luke Weaver, Rangers right-hander Alexis Diaz, Angels left-hander Drew Pomeranz and Cardinals right-hander Matt Svanson?