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.

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.

Noah Schultz jumps into the Top 50 after his White Sox debut

The wait for the 6-foot-10 left-hander is officially over. Schultz (pictured above) made his MLB debut on April 14 against the Tampa Bay Rays, becoming the youngest White Sox starter to debut since Michael Kopech. While the box score showed some “uneven” rookie jitters (4.1 IP, 4 ER, 4 BB), the underlying data remains elite.

Despite the nerves, Schultz flashed his top-of-the-rotation potential, sitting at 98.3 mph with his four-seamer and showcasing a sweeper that generated a 40% whiff rate during his time in Triple-A.

Before the call-up, he dominated Charlotte with a 1.29 ERA and 19 strikeouts in 14 innings. Now inside our Top 50, he is no longer a “future” asset—he is a high-strikeout rotation staple whose stock will only rise as he settles into the major league strike zone.

Tanner Franklin jumps into the Top 150 with his dominant start

Franklin is making the Cardinals’ decision to run him out as a starter look like a stroke of genius. On April 4, he fanned a pro-best nine batters over just 3.2 innings for High-A Peoria, striking out six of the first seven Kernels he faced. He has struck out 22 batters in his first three outings and has allowed just four earned runs in his six starts as a pro.

His four-seamer is a true 70-grade weapon, averaging 94-98 mph and touching 102 with an elite 18.5 inches of induced vertical break. This “tremendous ride” allows the ball to explode over barrels in the top of the zone.

Beyond the gas, he features a heavy 89-92 mph cutter and a mid-80s sweeping slider. After slicing his walk rate to 6% during his final collegiate season at Tennessee, the big 6-foot-5 righty is proving he has the control to stick in a rotation long-term.

The Helium Brigade: Minor League Risers

Ryan Sloan, RHP, Seattle Mariners (Up to No. 18)

Sloan is cementing his status as the premier pitching prospect of the 2024 class. In his Double-A debut, he sat mid-90s with a “sky-high” ceiling and is holding his own against older competition. His aggressive promotion path and high floor make him a priority dynasty target.

Kade Anderson, LHP, Seattle Mariners (Up to No. 30)

Anderson has been virtually unhittable, carrying a scoreless streak through his first nine innings at Double-A. With 17 strikeouts and a 0.89 WHIP, he has transitioned from a college standout to a pitcher who looks ready for a big-league challenge in months rather than years.

Didier Fuentes, RHP, Atlanta Braves (Up to No. 46)

Fuentes recently spun 3.2 scoreless frames with seven strikeouts for Gwinnett. His improved fastball/slider combo earned him a 40-man spot, and his high-strikeout floor makes him a primary “helium” candidate for early MLB innings.

JR Ritchie, RHP, Atlanta Braves (Up to No. 79)

Ritchie followed up a seven-inning one-hitter on April 8 with another clinical performance on April 12, fanning five over 5.2 scoreless frames. Now sporting a microscopic ERA through four starts at Triple-A, his elite command suggest he is the next arm in line for a rotation spot.

Theo Gillen, 2B/SS, Tampa Bay Rays (Up to No. 98)

Gillen has officially hit his way into the Top 100. After a scorching start at High-A, which included back-to-back two-homer games last week, his consensus rank among scouts is skyrocketing. His 60-grade hit tool and defensive versatility across the dirt make him an ideal “buy high” candidate in dynasty formats.

Hendry Mendez, OF, Minnesota Twins (Up to No. 177)

The “post-hype sleeper” is back. Now 22 and thriving at Double-A, Mendez is an OBP machine, slashing .333/.396/.595 with six extra-base hits in his first 11 games. His improved ability to impact the ball consistently has him back on the fantasy radar in a major way.

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).

Welcome to the #3 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.