Welcome to the #2 installment of our Weekly Hot Prospects Report ranking the top minor-league performances from the week ending April 12. 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. Theo Gillen (2B/SS, Tampa Bay Rays)

The Verdict: The complete package.

Gillen (pictured above) was an absolute force for High-A this week. He didn’t just hit for power (4 HRs); he showed elite plate coverage and situational awareness with 8 RBIs and 2 stolen bases. A 1.676 OPS over 17 at-bats is pure excellence. The Rays have a middle-infield gem who looks every bit like a future cornerstone.

2. Blake Burke (1B, Milwaukee Brewers)

The Verdict: More than just a slugger.

Burke continues to defy the “lumbering first baseman” stereotype. While he provided his signature power with 3 home runs, it was his 3 stolen bases and 8 hits that really turned heads. Posting a 1.113 OPS while being a threat on the basepaths makes him a dynamic offensive weapon for the Brewers’ system.

3. Robby Snelling (SP, Miami Marlins)

The Verdict: Ace potential in the making.

Snelling was the definition of “dominant” in his Triple-A start. He mowed down 12 batters in just 5 innings of work, maintaining a pristine 0.00 ERA. While his WHIP sat at 1.20, his ability to punch his way out of any trouble with that high strikeout volume proves he is nearly ready for the bright lights of early 2026.

These three provided a Masterclass in run prevention

The arms were just as dominant as the bats this week, with several prospects flirting with perfection. These three performances stood out for their ability to completely neutralize opposing lineups:

Seth Hernandez (PIT): Hernandez continued his climb up the prospect rankings by tossing 4 innings of clean, no-hit baseball backed by 7 punchouts. By allowing only one baserunner via a walk, he lowered his season WHIP to a microscopic 0.25, solidifying his status as a top-10 pitching prospect in the game.

Luis Serna (NYY): Serna was named the South Atlantic League Pitcher of the Week after a masterful High-A debut where he threw 7.0 shutout innings with 10 strikeouts and only one hit allowed. It was a triumphant return for the 21-year-old following Tommy John surgery, setting new career highs in both innings and punchouts on just 85 pitches.

Kade Anderson (SEA): The 2025 third-overall pick has yet to allow a run in his professional career, extending his scoreless streak to 9 innings across two starts for Double-A Arkansas. This week, he fanned 11 hitters while surrendering zero hits, proving the Mariners’ aggressive assignment of the former college standout was the right call.

Notable risers & run producers

• The RBI Kings: LuJames Groover (ARI) and Daniel Pierce (TB) were absolute run-producing machines. Groover drove in an incredible 13 RBIs this week, while Pierce launched two homers in a single game on April 9th, making a massive “welcome to pro ball” statement for Single-A Charleston.
• The Speed Merchants: Jim Jarvis (ATL) was a nightmare for catchers, swiping 6 bases this week to go along with a 1.170 OPS. Not far behind was Jacob Humphrey (COL) and Josh Wakefield (HOU), both tallying 5 steals.
• The Strikeout Specialists: Angel Jimenez (COL) and Miguel Ullola (HOU) are putting up massive K numbers. Jimenez sat down 15 batters in 8.2 innings, while Ullola dominated Triple-A with 15 Ks in 9.2 innings.

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.

The ‘Arrival’ Tier: Big league statements

Chase DeLauter, OF, Cleveland Guardians (Up to No. 8)

DeLauter (pictured above) isn’t just playing; he’s anchoring. On April 8, he lined a 100.7 mph, two-run double off the center-field wall against the Royals, continuing a scorching start that includes a 31-degree launch angle profile. Now inside the Top 10, he is shedding the “prospect” label for “fantasy cornerstone.”

Owen Caissie, OF, Miami Marlins (Up to No. 18)

Caissie is the early-season king of the “dream debut.” On April 9, he fueled an 8-1 win over the Reds with a three-hit, three-RBI performance, including two doubles. His ability to drive the ball to the opposite field against high-level velocity has vaulted him inside our Top 20.

The Helium Brigade: Minor League Risers

James Tibbs III, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Up to No. 59)

The Dodgers’ developmental machine has done it again. Tibbs has been “too powerful to ignore” at Triple-A Oklahoma City, hitting .380 with SEVEN home runs in his first 50 plate appearances. His .444 BABIP will cool off, but his elite OPS suggests the power is here to stay.

Noah Schultz, LHP, Chicago White Sox (Up to No. 66)

Schultz looked like a “different pitcher” on April 8, fanning nine batters over five dominant innings. With 19 strikeouts and only two walks through 14 innings this season, his command has taken a massive step forward, signaling he may not be in the minors much longer.

Charlie Condon, 1B/OF, Colorado Rockies (Up to No. 64)

After a brief layoff to have a cyst removed, Condon returned to the Triple-A Albuquerque lineup on April 7 without missing a beat. He immediately drilled a 111.8 mph home run, bringing his season slash line to a gaudy .323/.432/.645 through his first eight games.

Blake Burke, 1B, Milwaukee Brewers (Inside Top 215)

The Brewers’ power-hitting prospect had a night to remember on April 10, clubbing two home runs and driving in four for Double-A Biloxi. His stock is soaring as he combines massive raw power with a 1B-profile that is starting to look like a fast-track major league fit.

Juan Valera, RHP, Boston Red Sox (Up to No. 103)

Valera delivered the performance of his career on April 9 for High-A Greenville, fanning a career-high nine batters over five scoreless frames. Utilizing a mid-90s heater and a “plus” slider, he allowed just two hits and is quickly becoming the premier arm to watch in the Red Sox system.

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.

Angels: Romano’s Grip and the ‘Velo’ Watch

The Angels’ bullpen has been a bright spot despite a wave of injuries to Robert Stephenson and Ben Joyce. Jordan Romano has stepped into the void and been nearly perfect, securing four saves in his first four opportunities.

• The Concern: Despite the results, Romano noted a 1.5-mph drop in his fastball velocity during his most recent outings. He is actively working to incorporate a new splitter to compensate for the dip and keep lefties off-balance.
• The Support: Drew Pomeranz has been the ultimate safety net. His velocity has held steady at 2025 levels, and his 2.17 ERA profile from last season makes him the clear “Next Option” if Romano’s velocity issues lead to a spike in hard contact. Also, Kirby Yates is nearing a rehab assignment and could be firmly back in the mix soon.

Astros: The Hader Void and the Abreu Slide

The Astros’ plan to bridge the gap to a healthy Josh Hader (currently on the 15-day IL with biceps tendonitis) has hit a significant snag. While Bryan Abreu (pictured above) was the consensus pick to handle the ninth, his start to the 2026 campaign has been disastrous.

• Abreu was tagged with a high-profile blown save and loss against the Athletics this past week, surrendering a walk-off hit to Brent Rooker. Combined with a shaky Opening Series, his ERA has ballooned, and manager Joe Espada‘s confidence seems to be waning.
• Bryan King has quietly become the most reliable arm in Houston. The lefty earned a save on March 29 against the Angels and has posted a 1.69 ERA with 8 strikeouts through 5.1 innings. With Hader sidelined, King is a legitimate threat to Abreu’s save chances.
• Josh Hader is eligible to return in mid-April, but his spring velocity (sitting as low as 87 mph in early March) remains a major red flag. Even upon his return, don’t expect him to jump immediately into a heavy workload.

Brewers: The Megill vs. Uribe ‘Seesaw’

The Brewers continue to operate one of the most volatile committees in the National League. Trevor Megill has emerged as the early leader in saves, but his hold on the job is far from “stable.”

• Megill has the bulk of the save chances, but a recent loss and a few high-stress appearances have kept the door open for Abner Uribe. Uribe remains firmly in the mixand could eventually lead the team in saves by season’s end.
• Megill is the go-to for veteran stability, but Uribe is the high-upside play who is rostered in nearly 100% of competitive dynasty leagues. Don’t be surprised to even see Angel Zerpa vulture a save during heavy three-game stretches.

Twins: The Three-Headed Mystery

Manager Rocco Baldelli has yet to name a full-time successor, leading to a “co-closer” approach that is keeping fantasy managers on their toes.

• Cole Sands has been the most prominent right-handed option in the early going. He earned his first save of 2026 on March 28 against the Orioles and currently holds a 2.25 ERA through four appearances. However, his most recent outing against Detroit on April 7 saw him struggle with command, walking two batters in just a third of an inning.
• Taylor Rogers has been the primary left-handed option. While he hasn’t secured a save yet this season, his usage suggests he is a “Co-Closer” in every sense, often brought in for high-leverage matchups in the 8th or 9th. His 3.60 ERA is inflated by one shaky outing, but his strikeout-to-walk ratio remains elite.
• Justin Topa was summoned for the final two outs of the ninth inning Tuesday, escaping a late jam to record his first save of 2026. Rogers and Sands had been used in high-leverage situations in the seventh and eighth innings. Topa entered the season as a favorite to earn saves but has been hampered by left knee discomfort. The Twins view him as a primary setup man who can take over the ninth once his knee proves it can handle the stress of back-to-back appearances.

White Sox: The Grant Taylor Takeover?

While Seranthony Domínguez entered the season as the primary closer, the shadow of Grant Taylor is looming large. Taylor has been arguably the most dominant reliever in baseball through the first ten days, consistently sitting at 100+ mph and showcasing a refined five-pitch mix that includes a new mid-90s cutter.

• Manager Chris Getz initially spoke about Taylor in a “multi-inning” role, but his pure dominance (highlighted by a 101-mph Cactus League debut and elite strikeout rates) is making it impossible to keep him out of the ninth.
• Domínguez remains the “Current Closer” due to his veteran status and World Series experience, but Taylor has moved into a 1B status. If Domínguez’s command—which has been shaky early on—leads to blown saves, expect Taylor to officially seize the anchor role.

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 Arrivals: Instant MLB impact from these guys

Chase DeLauter, OF, Cleveland Guardians (Up to No. 14)

DeLauter didn’t just break camp with the big club; he broke the stat sheet. Through his seven games, he is slashing .346/.370/.923 with five home runs in just 26 at-bats. After years of injury-riddled “what ifs,” DeLauter is proving that his elite contact-to-power translation is the real deal. He’s already a top-tier fantasy asset who is punishing right-handed pitching at an elite clip.

Owen Caissie, OF, Miami Marlins (Up to No. 23)

The Marlins’ faith in Caissie’s (pictured above) 60-grade power is paying off early. After a strong finish to his Triple-A tenure last year, he has looked comfortable in the heart of the Miami order. His ability to limit strikeouts—the one bugaboo in his profile—while maintaining his signature exit velocities has him knocking on the door of the Top 20.

Jose Fernandez, SS, Arizona Diamondbacks (Up to No. 84)

Fernandez authored the debut of the year on March 31, crushing two home runs and driving in four against the Tigers. The 22-year-old infielder displayed remarkable poise, including a go-ahead blast off Kenley Jansen in the eighth inning. His defensive versatility keeps him on the field, but it’s the sudden power surge that has him skyrocketing nearly 200 spots in our rankings.

Munetaka Murakami, 1B/3B, Chicago White Sox (Up to No. 38)

Any concerns about Murakami’s contact rates translating from the NPB have been vaporized. The White Sox slugger has already dispelled the “swing and miss” narrative by launching three home runs with a staggering 1.872 OPS in his first few games. He looks every bit the middle-of-the-order force the South Side spent big to acquire.

The Helium Brigade: Minor League Risers

James Tibbs III, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Up to No. 98)

“Can anyone stop James Tibbs?” is the question currently echoing through the Pacific Coast League. Since joining the Dodgers’ system, Tibbs has been unconscious, hitting .500/.552/1.192 with four home runs through his first six games at Triple-A Oklahoma City. His all-fields authority and loud contact have pushed him firmly into the Top 100.

Ryan Sloan, RHP, Seattle Mariners (Up to No. 22)

Sloan is officially “The Next One” in Seattle. The 20-year-old right-hander has looked dominant in his early assignments, sitting mid-90s with a “sky-high” ceiling that has scouts comparing him to the organization’s frontline aces. His 27% strikeout rate from last year looks like it was just the floor.

TJ Rumfield, 1B, Colorado Rockies (Up to No. 97)

Rumfield is making the most of the Coors Field air. Entering April with a .357/.468/.643 slash line and elite plate discipline, he has become a fixture in the Rockies’ lineup. His transition from a defensive specialist to a high-OBP offensive threat is one of the early season’s biggest wins for Colorado.

Yorger Bautista, OF, Seattle Mariners (Up to No. 83)

Bautista is the biggest “lotto ticket” riser this week. At just 18 years old, he’s showing a rare blend of 70-grade speed and 60-grade power. While the swing-and-miss risk is present, his ability to drive the ball with authority is pushing him toward a stateside debut that could see him fly even higher.

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.

Carlos Estévez officially moves to the IL, throwing the Royals situation in flux

The biggest news of the week comes out of Kansas City. After a nightmare outing against the Braves where he surrendered six runs (including a walk-off grand slam), Estévez (pictured above) has been placed on the 15-day Injured List with a left foot contusion.

Estévez was struck by a Michael Harris II comebacker on March 28. While X-rays were negative, he was seen in a walking boot. More worrying for fantasy managers is Estévez’s velocity, which has dipped to a career-low average of 95.9 mph. Manager Matt Quatraro hinted that even when Estévez returns (eligible April 14), he may be moved to lower-leverage spots until his “velo” returns.

Lucas Erceg and Matt Strahm will likely share the closing duties for now.

Jimmy Herget secures Rockies’ first save as Victor Vodnik’s grip lessens

The Rockies’ bullpen hierarchy continues to be one of the most unpredictable in baseball, and Wednesday’s save by Herget in extra innings may have turned the Colorado closing situation into a wide-open committee. While Vodnik entered the season as the projected primary option, his early struggles—including a loss to Miami and ongoing command issues—opened the door for a change in philosophy. Vodnik did pitch in a tie game in the ninth on Wednesday, and Herget got the save in the 10th. Fireballer Juan Mejia is also in the mix, but he was lite up in his last appearance in the middle innings.

Herget was arguably Colorado’s most consistent reliever last season, finishing 2025 with a 2.48 ERA. While there was talk in spring training of stretching him out as an “opener” or even a starter, his submarine delivery and elite control (1.4 BB/9 last year) make him the most reliable “strike-thrower” in a bullpen currently plagued by walks. In the thin air of Coors Field, Herget’s ability to limit free passes gives him a significant edge over the high-velocity, high-walk profiles of his teammates.

‘The Reaper’ officially arrives in San Diego as Mason Miller is on fire

Miller has officially ascended to the throne as MLB’s most dominant closer, turning the Padres’ ninth inning into a “metal-inspired” nightmare for opposing hitters. After a legendary World Baseball Classic stint where he touched 104 mph for Team USA, Miller brought that same heat to the regular season, securing his first save of 2026 on March 28 against the Tigers. Manager Craig Stammen has fully committed to Miller as the cornerstone of the bullpen, utilizing a high-octane theatrical entrance to the song “Blind” by Korn that has quickly become the most intimidating spectacle in the league.

Statistically, Miller remains in a tier of his own, consistently sitting at 101–103 mph with a wipeout slider that generated a 50% whiff rate in the opening series. While the Padres intend to monitor his workload to avoid fatigue, his status as the #1 ranked fantasy reliever is undisputed. For managers in saves-plus-holds formats, Jeremiah Estrada and Adrian Morejon remain the primary handcuffs and Jason Adam is working his way back from his surgery last season.

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 ‘Arrival’ Tier: Opening Day statements were made

Kevin McGonigle, 2B/SS, Detroit Tigers: Welcome to the show, kid. McGonigle (pictured above) didn’t just make the roster; he turned his MLB debut on March 26 into a historic statement. Going 4-for-5 with two doubles against the Padres, he became only the 25th player in major league history to record four hits in his first career game. He drove in two runs on the very first pitch he saw—a 91 mph cutter—and showcased elite speed by beating out an infield single. His 75-grade hit tool is officially a big-league reality.

Carson Benge, OF, New York Mets: The Mets signaled their confidence in Benge by naming him the Opening Day right fielder, and he rewarded them immediately. Facing Paul Skenes and the Pirates, Benge had a “dream debut,” going 1-for-3 with a solo home run, two walks, and a stolen base. His home run—a 105.3 mph blast —capped an 11-7 Mets win. Benge admitted he “blacked out” while running the bases, but Day 1 is something fantasy baseball managers will remember clearly.

Chase DeLauter, OF, Cleveland Guardians: Despite some lower-body soreness early in camp, DeLauter silenced any doubters with a vintage Opening Day performance. He clubbed a home run, swiped a bag, and walked three times, showing the elite plate discipline that makes him a dynasty cornerstone. At No. 40, he remains an incredible value based on his immediate MLB production.

Ryan Johnson pitches his way into Angels’ rotation and inside the Top 150

Johnson had a stellar spring where he sat 95.7 mph with his heater and flashed a vastly improved splitter. The 6-foot-6 righty pairs high-effort, deceptive mechanics with elite strike-throwing, making him a high-variance arm with genuine mid-rotation upside. With Alek Manoah struggling, the 2024 second-round pick is jumping straight into a starting role.

TJ Rumfield looks like a must-add in Colorado and jumps inside the Top 200

Acquired from the Yankees in January, Rumfield seized the starting first base job by striking out only once in 58 spring plate appearances while slashing .286/.368/.531. A former Minor League Gold Glover, he brings a mature left-handed bat to Coors Field that could provide an immediate boost to OBP and runs.

Reds’ Hector Rodriguez jumps up to No. 87 after showcasing his skills

The “Spring Breakout” standout for the Reds, Rodriguez set the tone by crushing a 424-foot home run in the prospect showcase. His twitchy athleticism and ability to punish high-velocity pitching have moved him firmly into our Top 100. While he remains aggressive at the plate, his plus contact skills and 20+ homer potential have him on the fast track to Cincinnati later this year.

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 the Opening Day results:

Cardinals manager stays true to his word as Ryne Stanek gets the first save

St. Louis manager Oliver Marmol stayed true to his word about letting the bullpen “solve itself.” In a wild 9-7 win over the Rays, it was Stanek (pictured above) who emerged for the ninth-inning save chance. Stanek made it interesting by walking the bases loaded before striking out Joshua Palacios to seal the win.

The committee is still firmly in the mix at this point. Riley O’Brien earned the win in relief and remains the best “pure stuff” bet for long-term saves, but Stanek’s veteran status gave him the first crack. JoJo Romero teamed up with O’Brien to handle the seventh and eighth innings, while Matt Svanson was ineffective in his sixth-inning appearance but could eventually take the job as well.

Angels turn to Jordan Romano first in the wake of a rash of injuries

The Angels’ pecking order appears just as we suspected. With Robert Stephenson (elbow), Kirby Yates (knee), and Ben Joyce (shoulder) all starting the season on the IL, manager Kurt Suzuki turned to Romano to protect a 3-0 lead against the Astros. Romano earned the save, allowing one walk and striking out one. While Romano has struggled with consistency over the last two seasons, his 114 career saves make him the most “trusted” arm left standing in Anaheim.

We still have him listed in a job share with Drew Pomeranz for now, as we wait to see what happens as the next save opportunities come.

Pirates have a rebuilt bullpen with two clear front-runners

The Pirates entered 2026 with a “rebuilt” bullpen, and while the depth chart might list Dennis Santana as the closer, don’t expect a traditional usage pattern. Manager Don Kelly has indicated that Santana will not be a “full-time” closer in the traditional sense. The Pirates plan to be aggressive with matchups, meaning Santana could be deployed in the 7th or 8th innings if the heart of the opponent’s order is due up.

Gregory Soto is the clear 1B to Santana’s 1A. Soto’s experience and left-handedness make him the go-to option for saves when a lefty-heavy pocket hits the 9th. In the 11-7 wild loss to the Mets on Thursday, Soto pitched a scoreless eighth and Santana threw a scoreless ninth, for what it’s worth.

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.

A quick look at the saves earned on Thursday, March 26:

Aroldis Chapman (Red Sox): Facing his former team, Chapman retired the side in order to finalize a 3-0 shutout win against the Reds.

Jhoan Duran (Phillies): Duran was summoned with two outs in the ninth to face the potential tying run, winning a four-pitch battle with Evan Carter to save a 5-3 win over the Rangers.

Ryan Helsley (Orioles): In his Baltimore debut, Helsley struck out three in a perfect ninth to secure a 2-1 victory over the Twins.

Jordan Romano (Angels): With the projected bullpen leaders on the shelf, Romano stepped in to lock down a three-run shutout against the Astros.

Cade Smith (Guardians): Smith cemented his status as Cleveland’s new anchor, navigating a scoreless ninth with one strikeout to secure a 6-4 win over the Mariners.

Ryne Stanek (Cardinals): Stanek survived a bases-loaded jam in the ninth, eventually punching out Richie Palacios to preserve a wild 9-7 win over the Rays.

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.

Here are the Top Ten prospects in the RotoProspects Top 700 Prospect Rankings who have officially secured their spots on 2026 Opening Day rosters.

No. 3 overall Kevin McGonigle (SS, Tigers)

After a stellar spring where he showcased an elite hit tool and surprising defensive versatility, McGonigle has officially been named the Tigers’ starting shortstop. He beat out several veterans by posting a .923 OPS in the Grapefruit League while proving he could handle both short and third base at a high level. The reigning Arizona Fall League MVP is expected to be a cornerstone of the Detroit lineup immediately and challenge for AL Rookie of the Year.

No. 5 JJ Wetherholt (2B, Cardinals)

After the Cardinals cleared a path by trading away several veterans this winter, Wetherholt officially secured the starting second base job and is expected to serve as the team’s primary leadoff hitter. He posted a remarkable 20.5% walk rate during Grapefruit League play, proving that his elite plate discipline and “hit-everywhere” reputation from the minors have translated seamlessly to the big-league environment. As a consensus top-10 prospect, he enters Opening Day as a frontrunner for NL Rookie of the Year and a foundational piece of the new-look St. Louis infield.

No. 7 Samuel Basallo (C/1B, Orioles)

Basallo (pictured above) forced the Orioles’ hand this spring by mashing three home runs and maintaining a 1.114 OPS over 15 games. While Adley Rutschman remains the primary backstop, Basallo will break camp as the team’s everyday DH to keep his high-impact bat in the heart of the order. His rapid ascent through the system culminates in a high-leverage role for a Baltimore team with World Series aspirations.

No. 8 Sal Stewart (1B/3B, Reds)

Stewart capitalized on a massive 2025 debut to secure a full-time role in the Reds’ infield, likely splitting time between first base and DH. He dominated the Cactus League with a 1.065 OPS, proving his advanced approach and raw power are more than ready for Great American Ball Park. The 22-year-old is penciled in as a middle-of-the-order run producer for a Cincinnati club looking to contend for the NL Central.

No. 9 Nolan McLean (SP, Mets)

After a breakout 2025 where he posted a staggering 2.06 ERA and 57 strikeouts in just 46 innings, McLean has officially entered 2026 as the Mets’ “ace of the future.” While he faced some hurdles pitching for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, his dominant spring has solidified his spot in the rotation and made him one of the most compelling players to watch in the league. Though insider reports suggest no serious long-term extension talks have begun yet, the 24-year-old remains under team control through 2031, giving New York a perennial All-Star anchor for their staff.

No. 13 Bubba Chandler (SP, Pirates)

Chandler won the final spot in the Pirates’ rotation with a dominant spring performance that featured a triple-digit fastball and much-improved command. He is scheduled to make his MLB debut on March 31, joining a young, high-velocity rotation that has become the envy of the National League. His transition from a two-way player to a full-time pitcher appears complete as he looks to stabilize the back end of the Pittsburgh staff.

No. 14 Trey Yesavage (SP, Blue Jays)

While Yesavage is technically on the 26-man roster, he will begin the season on the 15-day Injured List due to a right shoulder impingement. The Blue Jays are taking a cautious approach with their top pitching prospect, though he is already throwing in minor league games and is expected back by mid-April. Once healthy, he will immediately rejoin a Toronto rotation that views him as a future frontline anchor.

No. 15 Carson Benge (OF, Mets)

By securing the starting right field job for Opening Day, Benge becomes the first Mets position player since Pete Alonso in 2019 to make his Major League debut in the starting lineup. He forced the front office’s hand by slashing .366/.435/.439 during the Grapefruit League, demonstrating the same elite contact skills and plate discipline that allowed him to rocket through three minor league levels last season. While he’ll likely begin the year in the bottom third of a deep New York lineup, his 60-grade arm and high on-base upside make him a legitimate NL Rookie of the Year candidate alongside his college roommate and teammate, Nolan McLean.

No. 25 Carter Jensen (C/DH, Royals)

Jensen won the backup catcher and occasional DH role in Kansas City by showing off a revamped swing that led the majors in barrel rate during spring training. He is expected to provide significant offensive depth behind Salvador Perez, likely seeing starts against right-handed pitching to maximize his OBP profile. His inclusion on the 26-man roster signals the Royals’ confidence in his ability to contribute to a winning environment right away.

No. 28 Dylan Beavers (OF, Orioles)

Beavers navigated a crowded Orioles outfield to secure a spot as a versatile starting option and high-upside run producer to begin the year. Despite a brief late-spring scare with knee discomfort, he proved his health and readiness by posting a .485 slugging percentage in the Grapefruit League, carrying over the momentum from his impressive 2025 debut. His elite plate discipline—highlighted by a 19% walk rate in his first taste of the Majors—combined with 20/20 potential makes him an invaluable asset for an Orioles squad aiming to return to the postseason.