Fantasy Baseball 2026: Top Busts to Avoid in Your Draft

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Fantasy baseball rankings for 2026 are out, and the SportsLine model has identified several players who might disappoint in the upcoming season. The model accurately predicted the struggles of Braves pitcher Spencer Strider and Brewers pitcher Jacob Misiorowski, and it also has concerns about Orioles first baseman Pete Alonso. By following the model's rankings and cheat sheets, fantasy managers can make strategic decisions in their drafts and increase their chances of success.

Why it matters

Avoiding potential busts is crucial in fantasy baseball, as drafting the wrong players can derail a team's season. The SportsLine model has a proven track record of accurately predicting player performances, making its insights valuable for fantasy managers looking to gain an edge in their leagues.

The details

The SportsLine model identified Braves starting pitcher Spencer Strider as a potential bust after his dominant 2023 season. Strider struggled in 2024, finishing with a 7-14 record, a 4.45 ERA, and significantly fewer strikeouts than the previous year. The model also has concerns about Brewers starting pitcher Jacob Misiorowski, who had a remarkable start to his career in 2023 but saw his performance decline in the second half of the season. Additionally, the model is not high on Orioles first baseman Pete Alonso, who is being drafted much earlier than his projected ranking.

• The SportsLine model's predictions are updated regularly, ensuring fantasy managers have the latest insights into player performances and potential busts.

What’s next

The SportsLine model's predictions are updated regularly, so fantasy managers should continue to monitor the latest rankings and cheat sheets to stay ahead of the competition.