10 Late-Round Fantasy Baseball Draft Picks to Target (2026)

Fantasy experts highlight their favorite sleeper picks to consider in the later rounds of your 2026 fantasy baseball draft.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Fantasy sports analysts have identified several intriguing late-round fantasy baseball draft picks for the 2026 season, including prospects like Brett Baty, Marcell Ozuna, and Lars Nootbaar, as well as pitchers Chad Patrick and Tyler Mahle. These players offer upside and value for fantasy managers willing to take a chance on them in the later rounds of their drafts.

Why it matters

Late-round draft picks can make or break a fantasy baseball season, as savvy managers who uncover hidden gems can gain a significant advantage over their opponents. These recommendations provide fantasy players with potential high-upside options to consider targeting in the later stages of their 2026 drafts.

The details

The analysts highlight several players they believe offer strong fantasy value despite being available in the later rounds. Brett Baty is a former top prospect with power potential, while Marcell Ozuna and Lars Nootbaar provide proven production when healthy. Pitchers Chad Patrick and Tyler Mahle are also identified as sleepers, with Patrick expected to have a rotation spot in Milwaukee and Mahle moving to a favorable park in St. Louis. Speedster Justin Crawford and versatile Willi Castro are also mentioned as late-round targets.

  • The 2026 fantasy baseball season is set to begin in April 2026.

The players

Brett Baty

A former top-25 prospect with power and a good hit tool, Baty's playing time could be impacted by offseason additions, but he still offers significant upside.

Marcell Ozuna

The veteran slugger signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Pirates and will serve as their everyday designated hitter, providing power potential despite playing in a difficult ballpark.

Lars Nootbaar

Nootbaar has not yet lived up to expectations, but the Cardinals' rebuilding season could provide him with a full-time opportunity to showcase his skills, including good contact, plate discipline, and power.

Chad Patrick

Patrick is a pitcher with four quality pitches and solid control and command, who is expected to lock down a rotation spot in Milwaukee following the trade of Freddy Peralta.

Justin Crawford

A hit-tool and speed prospect, Crawford is expected to be the Phillies' everyday center fielder, providing fantasy managers with potential upside if he can consistently hit major-league velocity.

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The takeaway

These late-round fantasy baseball draft picks offer significant upside for fantasy managers willing to take a chance on them, as they have the potential to provide league-winning production if they can capitalize on their opportunities in the 2026 season.