Top MLB Prospects to Watch This Spring Training

Fantasy baseball managers should keep an eye on these rising stars who could make an impact in 2026

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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As fantasy baseball season approaches, we're highlighting some of the top MLB prospects to monitor during Spring Training. These young players, who haven't yet debuted in the majors, could force their way onto big-league rosters and provide valuable fantasy production later this year. The list includes shortstop/outfielder Konnor Griffin of the Pirates, shortstop Colt Emerson of the Mariners, outfielder Walker Jenkins of the Twins, and pitchers Thomas White of the Marlins and Andrew Painter of the Phillies.

Why it matters

Identifying and stashing these high-upside prospects can give fantasy managers an edge, especially in keeper and dynasty leagues. A strong Spring Training performance could accelerate some of these players' timelines to the majors, making them worth drafting in the later rounds or adding off the waiver wire.

The details

Konnor Griffin, the top overall prospect, had an incredible 2025 season across three minor-league levels, hitting 21 home runs, driving in 95 runs, and stealing 65 bases. The 19-year-old Pirates shortstop/outfielder could force his way to the big leagues this year if he continues to rake in Spring Training. Colt Emerson, the Mariners' No. 9 prospect, is also expected to get a long look this spring as Seattle looks to fill out its infield. Outfielder Walker Jenkins, the Twins' No. 14 prospect, could see a call-up later in the season if Minnesota falls out of contention. On the pitching side, left-hander Thomas White (Marlins' No. 17 prospect) and righty Andrew Painter (Phillies' No. 28) both have the potential to make an impact in the majors in 2026.

  • Griffin will turn 20 years old in late April 2026.
  • Emerson spent time at High-A, Double-A, and Triple-A in 2025.

The players

Konnor Griffin

A 19-year-old shortstop/outfielder and the top overall prospect in baseball, Griffin has 5-tool potential and could force his way onto the Pirates' roster this season after a dominant 2025 campaign in the minors.

Colt Emerson

The Mariners' No. 9 overall prospect, Emerson is expected to get a long look this spring as Seattle looks to fill out its infield after a breakout 2025 season in the minors.

Walker Jenkins

The Twins' No. 14 overall prospect, the 20-year-old outfielder could see a call-up later in the 2026 season if Minnesota falls out of contention in the AL Central.

Thomas White

The Marlins' No. 17 overall prospect, the left-handed pitcher made a rapid rise through the minors in 2025 and could earn a spot in Miami's rotation this spring.

Andrew Painter

The Phillies' No. 28 overall prospect, the 6-foot-7 right-hander will have a chance to win a spot in Philadelphia's rotation this spring as Zack Wheeler recovers from injury.

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What they’re saying

“It's not out of the question that [Colt Emerson] earns a spot on the team for 2026.”

— Jerry Dipoto, President of Baseball Operations, Mariners (MLB.com)

What’s next

If Konnor Griffin and Colt Emerson impress in Spring Training, they could force their way onto their respective teams' Opening Day rosters. Meanwhile, Walker Jenkins, Thomas White, and Andrew Painter will look to continue their development at the minor-league level with an eye on potential call-ups later in the 2026 season.

The takeaway

These top prospects represent the next wave of young talent that could make an impact in fantasy baseball this year. Closely monitoring their Spring Training performances and minor-league progress will be crucial for savvy fantasy managers, especially in keeper and dynasty formats.