Fantasy Baseball Opening Day: Sleepers & Must-Have Team
FantasyPros • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 MLB season begins with a single-game opener, slowing the fantasy baseball ramp-up but signaling the start of waiver wire moves and lineup decisions.
- Key injury news includes Gerrit Cole starting on the IL with a possible May return, making him a prime stash candidate, while Carlos Rodon's absence complicates the Yankees' rotation.
- FantasyPros experts highlight value picks like Will Smith, Vinnie Pasquantino, and Jeremy Pena, with bold predictions such as Chandler Simpson potentially stealing 100 bases to lead MLB.
- Shohei Ohtani remains the top fantasy asset due to his dual-role flexibility, while aggressive targeting of young breakout players like Francisco Alvarez and Roman Anthony is recommended.
- Caution is advised against narrative-driven bets like Tyler O’Neill’s Opening Day home run streak, and managers are encouraged to be proactive with pitching prospects for midseason impact.
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