Welcome to the #7 installment of our Weekly Hot Prospects Report ranking the top minor-league performances from the week ending May 10. We’re back with this week’s top performers making waves across the minors—and this week’s trio at the top is stacked with thunderous bats and rising stars knocking on the MLB door.

Fantasy baseball owners, take note. CLICK HERE to check out the full list, with ETAs and updated statistics (subscription required).

A quick look at the Top Three

1. Henry Bolte (OF, Athletics)

The Verdict: The “Bolte of Lightning” has struck the big leagues.

Bolte (pictured above) didn’t just earn the top spot on our report… he earned a plane ticket to The Show. After a historic week in Triple-A where he tied a PCL record with hits in 12 consecutive at-bats, the Athletics officially called him up on Monday. He leaves Las Vegas with a massive 1.919 OPS for the week, including 5 home runs and 4 stolen bases. As he joins the club in West Sacramento to face the Cardinals, he brings a rare power-speed combination that could immediately transform the A’s outfield.

2. Wehiwa Aloy (SS, Baltimore Orioles)

The Verdict: The next piece of the Baltimore machine.

While the MLB club dominates, Aloy is ensuring the pipeline stays full. The 22-year-old shortstop torched High-A pitching for a 1.811 OPS and 5 home runs. Aloy’s raw power has never been in question, but his ability to limit strikeouts (only 7 in a high-volume week) while maintaining a refined approach at the plate suggests he’s ready for the jump to Double-A Bowie any day now.

3. Eric Hartman (OF, Atlanta Braves)

The Verdict: Consistency is king.

Appearing in our top three for the second time in three weeks, Hartman is officially the most consistent force in the South Atlantic League. He slashed his way to a 1.558 OPS with 4 home runs and a staggering 11 RBIs. His 6-to-3 walk-to-strikeout ratio this week highlights a professional approach that belies his 20 years of age. He is rapidly becoming the Braves’ most “untouchable” trade asset.

The Top 10 in the Weekly Hot Prospects Report

From dominant arms to scorching-hot bats, here are the Top 10 prospects below who turned heads and boosted their stock. CLICK HERE to check out the full list, with ETAs and updated statistics (subscription required).

As we roll out our latest update to the RotoProspects Top 700 Prospect fantasy baseball rankings, let’s dive into the key updates surrounding the top-ranked prospects this week.

Spencer Jones ready to make his MLB debut for Yankees

Literally the biggest prospect in the game, Jones (pictured above) is finally arriving in the Bronx. Following an injury to Jasson Domínguez (shoulder AC sprain), the Yankees officially recalled the 6’7″ Jones. He arrives as the minor league RBI leader (41) after torching Triple-A with a .258/.366/.592 line and 11 home runs in 33 games.

The most encouraging sign? His adjustments. After a rocky first week (51.4% K-rate), Jones slashed .276/.390/.632 over his last 25 games while cutting that strikeout rate nearly in half (25.7%). If he maintains this improved plate discipline, his massive power-speed combo makes him a league-winning fantasy asset.

Payton Tolle dominating for the Red Sox, soars inside the Top 20

The Red Sox might have a frontline monster in the making. Tolle is dominating at the MLB level and showing exactly why his stock is soaring. On May 4th against the Tigers, he fired seven shutout innings, allowing just one hit and striking out eight. In his first three MLB starts, he has a 2.04 ERA with 23 strikeouts in 17.2 innings. His deception and high-spin heater are overwhelming big-league hitters right now.

Mets’ A.J. Ewing jumps inside the Top 30 after Triple-A promotion

After a scorched-earth start at Double-A Binghamton where he hit .349 with 12 steals in 18 games, he was promoted to Triple-A Syracuse last week and hasn’t missed a beat. He’s currently hitting .364 with Syracuse and just delivered a signature walk-off single on Thursday against Rochester. With a 1.050+ OPS across two levels this year and more walks than strikeouts in Triple-A, Ewing is knocking on the door of Citi Field as a 21-year-old.

Speaking of the Red Sox, Anthony Eyanson is now inside the Top 50

If you thought Tolle was the only Red Sox arm moving, look at Eyanson. Just promoted to Double-A Portland on May 5th, he leaves High-A with a ridiculous 0.44 ERA and a 0.49 WHIP over 20.1 innings. With 34 strikeouts in that span, he’s missing bats at a 42% clip. He is arguably the fastest-rising pitching prospect in the Eastern League.

The Top 25 players in this week’s updated RotoProspects Top 700 Prospect Rankings

The Top 50 can be found HERE (no subscription required). For the complete list, CLICK HERE (subscription required).

In fantasy baseball, bullpen changes happen fast. To help you stay ahead, RotoProspects constantly updates the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart as a way for our subscribers to keep an edge, especially in dynasty leagues. This tool keeps fantasy baseball managers updated on shifting closer situations across Major League Baseball.

Bullpen roles change constantly due to injuries, performance shifts, and managerial decisions. That’s why our chart provides an up-to-date snapshot of each team’s closer hierarchy. You’ll always know who’s getting the ninth-inning chances.

Since we are heavily focused on prospects, we have a unique feature which highlights the team’s “Closer of the Future”. This gives you the edge on who to keep an eye on from the minor leagues before they become a household name.

Here’s a look at some recent news and developments:

Orioles’ Ryan Helsley lands on the IL with elbow inflammation

The biggest story of the week comes out of Baltimore, where Helsley was placed on the 15-day IL (retroactive to April 29) with right elbow inflammation.

• The Situation: While manager Craig Albernaz insists “the level of concern is not high” and testing came back clean, any elbow issue for a max-effort closer is a red flag. Helsley had been perfect in seven save chances before the move.
• The Transition: Rico Garcia is the immediate “Current Closer” on the chart, but expect a committee. Anthony Nunez had been “lights-out” before Saturday’s game and tends to handle the highest-leverage pockets, while Keegan Akin provides the primary left-handed look.
• The Stash: If Nunez is sitting on your waiver wire, grab him now. He has the raw stuff to run away with this job if Helsley’s “short-term” inflammation lingers.

Robert Suarez is proving to be worth every penny to the Braves

While Raisel Iglesias works his way back, Suarez (pictured above) has made the Braves look like geniuses for that $45M offseason investment.

• The Performance: Suarez secured another dominant save yesterday, May 1, against the Rockies. He needed just 12 pitches to navigate the ninth, striking out one and allowing a single hit.
• The Outlook: He is currently pitching with more “closer energy” than almost anyone in the NL. Since taking over the primary role, he has been virtually untouchable, consistently living at 100+ mph.

Blue Jays’ Louis Varland has stabilized the ninth with his dominance

The Varland era has officially moved from a “trial run” to a “permanent residence.”

• The Streak: Varland earned another save on May 1 against the Twins, racking up two strikeouts in a scoreless ninth. He has a 28-5 K-BB and has allowed just one earned run this season (0.53 ERA).
• The Hierarchy: Jeff Hoffman remains in the “Next Option” role but is being used primarily for setup work. Varland’s ability to generate “one-pitch” escapes and high-strikeout frames has made him the undisputed anchor in Toronto.

Here’s a look at the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart for the teams listed above (* denotes a committee). For the complete chart, CLICK HERE and purchase a subscription.

What makes our Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart unique? Closer of the Future!

We give dynasty managers another advantage with our fantasy baseball closer chart. We include a “Closer of the Future” column in the chart. This feature highlights the top relief prospect from each farm system who could eventually take over closing duties. Now, you can plan ahead and grab future closers before your competition does.

Key features of the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart:

• Updated regularly – We track bullpen changes so you always have the latest information.
• Team-by-team breakdown – Quickly see the closer situation for all 30 MLB teams.
• Highlighting key setup men – For those in leagues that value holds or SVH, SVH2 etc.
• Closer of the future – What other site gives you a list of future closers from every farm system?

By using the RotoProspects Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart, you’ll gain an edge in finding saves, spotting trends, and securing future closers. Check back regularly as we are constantly updating the list.

As we roll out our latest update to the RotoProspects Top 700 Prospect fantasy baseball rankings, let’s dive into the key updates surrounding the top-ranked prospects this week.

Caleb Bonemer of the White Sox jumps up into the Top 25

Bonemer (pictured above) is the clear “April MVP” of the minor leagues. The 20-year-old has been a supernova at High-A Winston-Salem, slashing .284/.396/.750 with a staggering 11 home runs and a 1.146 OPS. He’s currently tied for the minor league home run lead and is posting a 187 wRC+. While his strikeout rate has ticked up, his premium power and ability to stick on the dirt have vaulted him into the elite tier of our rankings.

Noah Schultz of the White Sox jumps up inside the Top 30

The towering lefty continues to look like a future frontline starter. In his most recent outing on April 25, Schultz dismantled the Nationals, striking out 8 batters over 6 innings while showing improved stamina. His wipeout slider remains mostly unhittable, and his climb reflects a high-floor, high-ceiling profile that is nearing “Top 25” status. Through his first three MLB appearances, he maintains a 3.52 ERA and a 10.6 K/9.

Guardians’ Robert Arias jumps inside the Top 150

Arias is making a mockery of Single-A pitching in his full-season debut. The 19-year-old outfielder has carried his elite plate discipline from the complex leagues and added a surprising power surge. Through late April, Arias is slashing .341/.432/.500 with 3 home runs and 11 stolen bases in just 20 games.

Nationals’ Miguel Sime Jr. dominating, jumps inside the Top 200

One of the most aggressive movers this month, Sime Jr. has been “pure gasoline” in the Carolina League. Sitting 98-99 mph with his fastball and touching triple digits, the 18-year-old recently struck out 9 batters in just 3.2 innings. His ability to miss bats with all three offerings (fastball, slider, curve) has scouts convinced the Nationals found a 4th-round steal.

Sean Keys of the Blue Jays slugging his way into the Top 250

Keys is arguably the biggest breakout in the upper minors right now. After a pedestrian 2025 where he hit just .217 at High-A, the 22-year-old has exploded at Double-A New Hampshire. He is currently slashing .321/.436/.705 with 9 home runs in 21 games—a power output that is tied for the lead in the Eastern League.

Rising Stock: Quick Notes

• JR Ritchie (SP, ATL): Moves up to No. 54. In his April 29 start, Ritchie tossed 5.1 innings of two-run ball, striking out four. His command is sharpening, and his velocity is holding steady deep into games, signaling a full return to form.
• Sam Antonacci (2B/3B, CHW): Now at No. 68. Antonacci has been a steady table-setter in the White Sox system, showing an advanced eye and a .380+ OBP. He’s proving to be one of the higher-floor infield prospects in the 2024 class.
• Nathan Flewelling (C, TB): Jumps to No. 83. The Rays’ developmental magic is at work again. Flewelling’s exit velocities have been elite for a 19-year-old catcher, and his defensive growth has been better than anticipated.
• Pedro Ramirez (2B/3B, CHC): Vaults to No. 100. Ramirez finished April with a 1.005 OPS, 8 home runs, and 10 stolen bases. The switch-hitter is a statistical darling with a path to a “super-utility” or better MLB role.
• Blake Burke (1B, MIL): Climbs to No. 119. Burke is currently leading all hitters below Triple-A in home runs. His .289/.372/.789 line in Double-A makes him a candidate for a very fast track to Milwaukee.

The Top 25 players in this week’s updated RotoProspects Top 700 Prospect Rankings

The Top 50 can be found HERE (no subscription required). For the complete list, CLICK HERE (subscription required).

In fantasy baseball, bullpen changes happen fast. To help you stay ahead, RotoProspects constantly updates the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart as a way for our subscribers to keep an edge, especially in dynasty leagues. This tool keeps fantasy baseball managers updated on shifting closer situations across Major League Baseball.

Bullpen roles change constantly due to injuries, performance shifts, and managerial decisions. That’s why our chart provides an up-to-date snapshot of each team’s closer hierarchy. You’ll always know who’s getting the ninth-inning chances.

Since we are heavily focused on prospects, we have a unique feature which highlights the team’s “Closer of the Future”. This gives you the edge on who to keep an eye on from the minor leagues before they become a household name.

Here’s a look at some recent news and developments:

The Jordan Romano Era ends in Anaheim

The most shocking move of the week comes from Anaheim, where the Halos have officially cut ties with their closer.

On Tuesday, April 28, the Angels officially released Romano (pictured above). This followed a Designation for Assignment on Sunday after a nightmare outing against the Royals where he surrendered four earned runs while recorded just two outs. Romano’s tenure ends with a 10.13 ERA and a career-low average fastball velocity of 94.5 mph.

Ryan Zeferjahn has been the busiest arm in high-leverage spots recently, working 1.2 scoreless innings on Sunday. He holds the “Current Closer” title by default, but he lacks a long-term track record in the role. The main problem is that the bullpen in general has allowed a ton of runs lately.

Kirby Yates is the name to watch. While his Triple-A rehab outings have been rocky (7 runs allowed in 3 innings), the Romano release clears a direct path for Yates to reclaim the ninth inning the moment he is activated, which could happen as early as this weekend.

Orioles closer Ryan Helsley is back on duty

The ninth inning belongs to Helsley once again. Helsley was officially reinstated from the Family Medical Emergency List on April 26. While Anthony Nunez filled in admirably—securing his first career save with “lights-out” stuff—he returns to a high-leverage setup role. Nunez remains a must-stash in dynasty leagues given his 15 strikeouts in 12.1 innings.

Phillies bullpen remains anyone’s game for now

Brad Keller is the technical leader, but Jose Alvarado and Orion Kerkering are both siphoning high-leverage looks. This is a situation to avoid if you value your sanity, but Keller has the slight edge for pure saves.

Jacob and Jakob sharing the duties in Texas

Jacob Latz earned a save against the Athletics on April 25, throwing a perfect inning. Jakob Junis has been the primary beneficiary of the injuries to Robert Garcia and Chris Martin. He has been used in both the eighth and ninth innings, depending on the heart of the opposing order. He is arguably the most valuable deep-league asset in this pen because of his versatility. Cole Winn is also lurking around and could see his way back into the mix.

Here’s a look at the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart for the teams listed above (* denotes a committee). For the complete chart, CLICK HERE and purchase a subscription.

What makes our Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart unique? Closer of the Future!

We give dynasty managers another advantage with our fantasy baseball closer chart. We include a “Closer of the Future” column in the chart. This feature highlights the top relief prospect from each farm system who could eventually take over closing duties. Now, you can plan ahead and grab future closers before your competition does.

Key features of the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart:

• Updated regularly – We track bullpen changes so you always have the latest information.
• Team-by-team breakdown – Quickly see the closer situation for all 30 MLB teams.
• Highlighting key setup men – For those in leagues that value holds or SVH, SVH2 etc.
• Closer of the future – What other site gives you a list of future closers from every farm system?

By using the RotoProspects Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart, you’ll gain an edge in finding saves, spotting trends, and securing future closers. Check back regularly as we are constantly updating the list.

As we roll out our latest update to the RotoProspects Top 700 Prospect fantasy baseball rankings, let’s dive into the key updates surrounding the top-ranked prospects this week.

The “Helium” Spotlight: Fast Risers

Ronny Cruz, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks (Up near the Top 100)

Cruz (pictured above) has been an absolute force to start the year at High-A Hillsboro. The 19-year-old switch-hitter is currently slashing .289/.400/.605 with a 1.005 OPS through his first 45 plate appearances. With two home runs and five stolen bases already, Cruz is flashing the dynamic power-speed combo that scouts have been dreaming of. He moves from “unranked” right to the doorstep of the Top 100.

Franklin Arias, SS, Red Sox (Up inside the Top 50)

Arias has been a revelation in Double-A Portland. Despite being just 20 years old, he has showcased an advanced “all-fields” approach and a high-contact profile that has pushed his hit tool grade toward a 60. With exit velocities now topping out at 110 mph, his “sneaky pop” is becoming less of a secret. His two-way impact at shortstop makes him a candidate to reach Triple-A by midseason.

Eduardo Rivera, LHP, Red Sox (Inside the Top 200)

Rivera is the talk of the industry after the Red Sox made the aggressive move to call him straight from Double-A to Fenway Park this week. He made his MLB debut that same night against the Yankees, delivering 3.1 scoreless innings of relief with three strikeouts. The 22-year-old southpaw, standing 6-foot-7, has used his massive extension and 98 mph heater to dominate his first two starts of the year (1 ER in 10 IP). After a statement performance in the World Baseball Classic where he struck out Jac Caglianone with the bases loaded, he is proving his “big stage” mettle.

The Pitching Surge: Arms moving way up

Aidan Cremarosa, RHP, Rays (Inside the Top 300)

Cremarosa authored the most dominant pro debut of the season on April 8 for Single-A Charleston, racking up 12 strikeouts over just five innings. The Rays’ pitching development machine has clearly found another gear with this right-hander, whose high-spin arsenal has the industry buzzing. He has a 24-1 K-BB in his first three professional starts.

Ben Jacobs, LHP, Tigers (Inside the Top 300)

The former ASU standout is proving that his “Friday Night” pedigree translates to the pros. With a 92-94 mph fastball that plays up due to deception and a high-grade slider/changeup mix, Jacobs has missing bats at a clip that suggests he won’t be in the lower minors for long.

Walbert Urena, RHP, Los Angeles Angels (Inside the Top 300)

Urena has officially transitioned from a “high-octane arm” to a member of the Angels’ starting rotation. After making the Opening Day roster and appearing in relief, he was stretched out in Triple-A before returning for a massive first career start on April 19. He allowed only two runs over six innings while fanning eight Padres. His heavy 92-96 mph sinker and a refined changeup have given him the floor he previously lacked.

JT Quinn, RHP, Orioles (Inside Top 400)

Standing 6-foot-6, Quinn is utilizing a unique over-the-top delivery to pump mid-90s heat (peaking at 98.2 mph) with a mid-80s slider. His control improvements, first noted on the Cape, appear to be holding, making him a high-upside “back-half” starter candidate.

Josiah Hartshorn, OF, Cubs (Inside the Top 150)

The switch-hitting 19-year-old is moving up boards thanks to massive raw power and a refined approach that is making the Cubs’ $2 million investment look like a bargain.

The Top 25 players in this week’s updated RotoProspects Top 700 Prospect Rankings

The Top 50 can be found HERE (no subscription required). For the complete list, CLICK HERE (subscription required).

In fantasy baseball, bullpen changes happen fast. To help you stay ahead, RotoProspects constantly updates the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart as a way for our subscribers to keep an edge, especially in dynasty leagues. This tool keeps fantasy baseball managers updated on shifting closer situations across Major League Baseball.

Bullpen roles change constantly due to injuries, performance shifts, and managerial decisions. That’s why our chart provides an up-to-date snapshot of each team’s closer hierarchy. You’ll always know who’s getting the ninth-inning chances.

Since we are heavily focused on prospects, we have a unique feature which highlights the team’s “Closer of the Future”. This gives you the edge on who to keep an eye on from the minor leagues before they become a household name.

Here’s a look at some recent news and developments:

Both Robert Suarez and Louis Varland are currently the “men of the hour” in the high-leverage landscape, though they are at very different stages of securing their ninth-inning thrones.

Suarez: The “Luxury” All-Star (Atlanta Braves)

When the Braves signed Suarez to a 3-year, $45 million deal this offseason, manager Walt Weiss called it a “luxury” to have a second All-Star closer behind Raisel Iglesias. That luxury has officially become a necessity.

• The Transition: Suarez (pictured above) was thrust into the role full-time on April 21 when Iglesias hit the 15-day IL with shoulder inflammation. While Iglesias’ MRI was clean, his velocity had dipped to a concerning 93 mph.
• The Stuff: Suarez isn’t just filling in; he’s dominating. On April 18, he secured a save against the Phillies with “big-time stuff,” hitting 100.7 mph on his four-seamer. He secured his second save of the season on April 22, against the Nationals, needing only eight pitches (seven strikes) to slam the door on an 8-6 win.
• The Performance: Through 10 appearances, Suarez has a pristine 0.93 ERA and 0.83 WHIP. He is pitching with more pure “closer” energy than Iglesias was early in the month, leading many to wonder if he will keep a share of the job even when the Iglesias returns in May.

Varland: The “one-pitch” solution (Toronto Blue Jays)

While Suarez is the established veteran taking over, Varland is the “dazzling” young arm forcing the Blue Jays’ hand.

• The Hero Moment: On Tuesday night, Jeff Hoffman hit two batters and allowed two singles without recording an out. Varland entered with the bases loaded, threw one pitch, and induced a game-ending double play to preserve a 4-1 win over the Angels.
• The Statistical Freak: Varland is one of only ten qualified relievers in MLB who has not allowed an earned run so far in 2026. He has racked up 19 strikeouts in 12.1 innings and currently holds a 0.00 ERA.
• The Hierarchy Shift: Manager John Schneider officially stated the team is “re-evaluating” the closer role following Hoffman’s league-leading three blown saves and 7.59 ERA. Varland is no longer just a backup; he is widely viewed as the best closer option currently on the roster.

Ryan Helsley out, Anthony Nunez rises (Baltimore Orioles)

The Orioles received some tough news yesterday as Helsley was placed on the Bereavement/Family Medical Emergency List on April 22. He is expected to be away for a minimum of three days and a maximum of seven.

• The Immediate Solution: Nunez has officially arrived. After a “whirlwind 72 hours” that saw him make his MLB debut just weeks ago, Nunez earned his first career save yesterday (April 22) against the Royals. He retired the side efficiently, and his season line now includes 15 strikeouts in 12.1 innings with a tiny 1.46 ERA.
• The Committee: While Nunez got the first look, Rico Garcia is also in the mix for saves.

Quick hits around the bullpens

• St. Louis Cardinals: Riley O’Brien is the hottest arm in the NL Central. He has converted three saves in the last week (7 total) and still hasn’t allowed an earned run in 13.1 innings.
• Texas Rangers: The hierarchy remains a split between Jakob Junis and Cole Winn. Junis has the veteran edge for now, but Winn’s 0.00 ERA is making it hard for Bruce Bochy to keep him out of the ninth.

Here’s a look at the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart for the teams listed above (* denotes a committee). For the complete chart, CLICK HERE and purchase a subscription.

What makes our Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart unique? Closer of the Future!

We give dynasty managers another advantage with our fantasy baseball closer chart. We include a “Closer of the Future” column in the chart. This feature highlights the top relief prospect from each farm system who could eventually take over closing duties. Now, you can plan ahead and grab future closers before your competition does.

Key features of the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart:

• Updated regularly – We track bullpen changes so you always have the latest information.
• Team-by-team breakdown – Quickly see the closer situation for all 30 MLB teams.
• Highlighting key setup men – For those in leagues that value holds or SVH, SVH2 etc.
• Closer of the future – What other site gives you a list of future closers from every farm system?

By using the RotoProspects Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart, you’ll gain an edge in finding saves, spotting trends, and securing future closers. Check back regularly as we are constantly updating the list.

Welcome to the #4 installment of our Weekly Hot Prospects Report ranking the top minor-league performances from the week ending April 19. We’re back with this week’s top performers making waves across the minors—and this week’s trio at the top is stacked with thunderous bats and rising stars knocking on the MLB door.

Fantasy baseball owners, take note. CLICK HERE to check out the full list, with ETAs and updated statistics (subscription required).

A quick look at the Top Three

1. Cam Maldonado (OF, San Francisco Giants)

The Verdict: Power that cannot be contained.

Maldonado (pictured above) turned Single-A San Jose into his personal playground this week. He launched a staggering 6 home runs and drove in 10, posting a 1.971 OPS. Scouts have long noted his raw power, but seeing it manifest into a home run nearly every four at-bats has the Giants’ front office looking very smart for their 2023 draft pick.

2. Ben Ross (SS, Minnesota Twins)

The Verdict: The “Everything” Prospect.

It is rare to see a hitter post a 2.011 OPS while also being a terror on the bases. Ross was perfect this week, tallying 4 home runs and 3 stolen bases while hitting a cool .500 (8-for-16). He showed elite discipline with 5 walks against just 2 strikeouts, cementing himself as the most dangerous hitter in High-A right now.

3. Tanner Thach (1B, Colorado Rockies)

The Verdict: The ultimate run producer.

If there were runners on base, Thach drove them in. The Rockies’ first baseman put up a video-game-like 18 RBIs in just 28 at-bats. With a 1.495 OPS and 13 hits, he’s showing the kind of high-ceiling contact and power profile that translates perfectly to the thin air of Denver in the future.

The Shutdown Squad: Masterclasses in run prevention

The pitching across the ranks this week was nothing short of surgical. From former first-rounders to rising teenagers, hitters were left in the dark:

• Mason McGwire (CHC): The son of the home run king is making his name on the mound, pitching 7 dominant innings this week with 10 strikeouts and zero runs allowed. His microscopic 0.29 WHIP across two appearances suggests his command has taken a massive leap forward.
• Dax Fulton (MIA): Fulton was lights-out for Triple-A Jacksonville, tossing 6 scoreless innings with 10 strikeouts. After a long road back from surgery, Fulton looks like he’s ready to join the Marlins’ rotation any day now, flashing a 0.67 WHIP that overwhelmed top-tier hitters.
• Chase Shores (LAA): Shores delivered a masterpiece for High-A, throwing 5 innings of clean, no-hit baseball with only one walk allowed. His 0.20 WHIP for the week is a testament to a fastball-slider combo that is currently playing several levels above his current assignment.

Notable risers & run producers

• The Stolen Base King: Ronny Cruz (WAS) put up a stat line for the ages. While his 1.386 OPS was impressive, it was his 12 stolen bases in a single week that defied belief. He is quite literally running his way into the top prospect conversation.
• The High-A Power Surge: Colby Shelton (CHW) and Owen Ayers (CHC) are both making noise in the Chicago systems. Shelton drove in 14 runs with a 1.614 OPS, while Ayers flashed the rare “power-hitting catcher” profile with 4 HRs and 3 SBs.
• Precision Command: John Holobetz (BOS) and David Shields (KC) were surgical. Holobetz allowed just one hit over 7 innings (11 Ks), while the 19-year-old Shields tossed 5 innings of no-hit ball with 8 strikeouts.

The Top 10 in the Weekly Hot Prospects Report

From dominant arms to scorching-hot bats, here are the Top 10 prospects below who turned heads and boosted their stock. CLICK HERE to check out the full list, with ETAs and updated statistics (subscription required).

In fantasy baseball, bullpen changes happen fast. To help you stay ahead, RotoProspects constantly updates the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart as a way for our subscribers to keep an edge, especially in dynasty leagues. This tool keeps fantasy baseball managers updated on shifting closer situations across Major League Baseball.

Bullpen roles change constantly due to injuries, performance shifts, and managerial decisions. That’s why our chart provides an up-to-date snapshot of each team’s closer hierarchy. You’ll always know who’s getting the ninth-inning chances.

Since we are heavily focused on prospects, we have a unique feature which highlights the team’s “Closer of the Future”. This gives you the edge on who to keep an eye on from the minor leagues before they become a household name.

Here’s a look at some recent news and developments:

Dodgers’ Edwin Diaz to miss multiple months with elbow surgery

A massive blow to the NL favorites as Díaz (pictured above) heads for elbow surgery on April 22 to remove loose bodies. He is expected to miss roughly three months, sidelining him until after the All-Star Break.

Manager Dave Roberts is pivoting to a committee. Tanner Scott and Alex Vesia are the primary left-handed options for the ninth, while Blake Treinen and Will Klein (Dark Horse) provide right-handed balance.

Edgardo Henriquez remains the Closer of the Future, but his timeline may accelerate if the committee falters.

Braves turn to Robert Suarez with shoulder injury to Raisel Iglesias

The Braves’ bullpen depth is no longer a luxury. Iglesias was placed on the 15-day IL (retroactive to April 20) with right shoulder inflammation.

Suarez is now the primary closer. With his fastball recently clocking in at 100.7 mph, he is the undisputed anchor in Atlanta. Dylan Lee and Tyler Kinley move up into high-leverage setup roles.

After initial optimism that Iglesias just “slept on it weird,” a noticeable velocity dip to 93 mph triggered an IL move. He is out until at least May 5.

Enyel De Los Santos takes charge for Astros amid shaky bullpen

The hierarchy in Houston has undergone a complete overhaul with Josh Hader on the 60-day IL and Bryan Abreu‘s early-season struggles (14.73 ERA).

De Los Santos has secured saves in back-to-back appearances and has become the only reliable late-inning arm lately.

Bryan King is the primary backup, while Abreu has been relegated to a “Next Option” role until his command returns.

Phillies’ Brad Keller is the best option with injury to Jhoan Duran

With Duran sidelined by a “mild” oblique strain, the Phillies are navigating a shaky transition period.

Keller has emerged as the most consistent option for save opportunities.

Jose Alvarado continues to struggle with an ERA over 10.00, pushing him into a secondary role. Orion Kerkering is the high-upside play to monitor for saves as Duran rehabs.

Caleb Thielbar leads the Cubs’ MASH unit in the ninth

The Cubs’ bullpen has been absolutely gutted over the last week, losing their top three high-leverage arms to the IL in rapid succession.

Daniel Palencia was placed on the 15-day IL (April 17, retroactive to April 14) with a left oblique strain. He joins Hunter Harvey (triceps inflammation) and Phil Maton (knee tendinitis) on the sidelines, leaving the team with a depleted unit.

Thielbar is the de facto “Current Closer” based on seniority, but Ben Brown is the name to watch. Brown has been “dazzling” in multi-inning relief, and with his new sinker, he is generating the kind of “closer energy” that could see him take the job permanently. Jacob Webb and Hoby Milner will provide matchup-based support.

Blue Jays remain ‘confident’ in Jeff Hoffman… for now

The Blue Jays’ ninth-inning situation is currently the most debated in the American League. Despite public outcry following recent struggles, manager John Schneider has doubled down on his current closer.

Hoffman has endured a brutal stretch, punctuated by a non-save appearance against Arizona where he allowed a grand slam, ballooning his ERA to 7.71. Schneider stated on April 18, “If there’s a situation to close out a game, I’ll take Jeff Hoffman.”

While he remains the Current Closer, he is on the shortest of leashes. Louis Varland has been “dazzling” in high-leverage spots, maintaining a 0.00 ERA with 19 strikeouts in 12.1 innings.

While the team is sticking with Hoffman for now, Varland is the undisputed “Next Option” and the favorite of the scouting community to take over. Tyler Rogers provides a veteran submarine look as a backup.

Angels may be getting Kirby Yates back just in time

The Jordan Romano experiment in the ninth is on life support due to a 1.5 mph velocity drop.

Kirby Yates has officially started his rehab assignment. Pairing him back with pitching coach Mike Maddux makes him the heavy favorite to take over the role as soon as he is activated (expected within the week).

Here’s a look at the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart for the teams listed above (* denotes a committee). For the complete chart, CLICK HERE and purchase a subscription.

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Key features of the Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart:

• Updated regularly – We track bullpen changes so you always have the latest information.
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By using the RotoProspects Fantasy Baseball Closer Chart, you’ll gain an edge in finding saves, spotting trends, and securing future closers. Check back regularly as we are constantly updating the list.