RADIO
Jackson Merrill has Sore Ribs, Expected to Avoid Injured List
San Diego Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill (ribs) is dealing with some sore ribs, but he is expected to be ready to play in the next few days, according to Kevin Acee of The San Diego Union-Tribune. Merrill most likely will not be in the starting lineup for Friday's series opener against the visiting Athletics at Petco Park, but he could return before Sunday's series opener. The 23-year-old tweaked his ribs while trying to rob a Shohei Ohtani home run in a loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday, and it was originally reported as a potential back injury. Fantasy managers should consider him day-to-day for now and check back later this weekend to see if he can return to the starting nine. Bryce Johnson could make a start on Friday in center field for the Friars against left-hander Jeffrey Springs. Merrill, along with plenty of other Padres hitters, has been a disappointment offensively so far in 2026. He entered Friday's games hitting just .203/.273/.322 with a career-low .595 OPS, four homers, 19 RBI, nine steals, and 23 runs scored across 47 games. UPDATE: Merrill is out of Friday's lineup.
Source: The San Diego Union-Tribune - Kevin Acee
Source: The San Diego Union-Tribune - Kevin Acee
Cale Makar Remains Out Friday
Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (upper body) won't play in Game 2 against the Vegas Golden Knights on Friday, ESPN's Ryan S. Clark reports. He will be out of the lineup for a second consecutive game due to an upper-body injury. Makar's absence leaves a gaping hole in Colorado's blue line, one that is nearly impossible to fill. The two-time Norris Trophy winner plays a major role on both ends of the ice. With Makar sidelined, Devon Toews led the team with 27:32 of ice time in Game 1, including 4:29 on the power play. Sam Malinski and Brent Burns also saw power-play time, while Brett Kulak was second among defensemen with 23:06 of ice time.
Source: Ryan S. Clark
Source: Ryan S. Clark
Garrett Crochet to Throw a Live BP/Sim Game Next Week
Boston Red Sox interim manager Chad Tracy said on Friday that left-hander Garrett Crochet (shoulder) will throw a side session this weekend ahead of a live batting practice/simulated game early next week, according to Chris Cotillo of MassLive.com. Crochet is currently on the 15-day injured list with left-shoulder inflammation, and although he is making progress, his return to Boston's starting rotation isn't imminent. The talented southpaw has been out since April 25. Whether Crochet requires a minor-league rehab assignment will likely be dependent on how his throwing sessions this weekend and early next week go. Fantasy managers are going to need to be patient, as he is unlikely to be back in the big leagues until early June. The 26-year-old two-time All-Star was second in the American League Cy Young voting last year, but he has disappointed so far in 2026 with a 3-3 record, 6.30 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and 37 strikeouts in 30 innings pitched across six starts. Crochet is rightfully rostered in 99% of Yahoo leagues.
Source: MassLive.com - Chris Cotillo
Source: MassLive.com - Chris Cotillo
Robby Snelling Undergoes Internal-Brace Procedure on his Left Elbow
The Miami Marlins announced that left-handed pitching prospect Robby Snelling (elbow) had a left-elbow UCL repair with an internal brace on Friday, which was performed by Dr. Keith Meister. The timeline for Snelling's return to play is 10 to 12 months. Initial reports suggested that Snelling would undergo Tommy John surgery. Although Snelling will still miss the rest of the 2026 season and most likely half of next year, the internal-brace procedure should allow him to return on the early side of that timeline in 2027. The 22-year-old is considered Miami's No. 2 prospect, per MLB Pipeline, but he'll have to wait until late next season to potentially make his return to the major-league starting rotation. The former first-rounder in 2022 by the San Diego Padres made his big-league debut on May 8 against the Washington Nationals and allowed three earned runs in five innings with four walks and two strikeouts before landing on the injured list. Snelling development will be on pause, but he's still a stash candidate in deep dynasty/keeper formats.
Source: Miami Marlins
Source: Miami Marlins
J.P. Crawford Back From Nagging Triceps Injury on Friday
Seattle Mariners shortstop J.P. Crawford (triceps) is back at shortstop and will hit leadoff for the M's in Friday's series opener in Kansas City against the Royals and left-hander Noah Cameron, according to MLB.com. Crawford has missed a couple of games this week with a sore triceps muscle after he was initially hit by a pitch on Sunday in the series finale against the San Diego Padres, but he's back in action to kick off the weekend in KC. Rookie infielder Colt Emerson will shift back to third base and will hit ninth in the batting order against the Royals. The 31-year-old Crawford could be in danger of losing playing time on Seattle's infield this year if he continues to struggle at the plate. He enters Friday's game with a weak .210/.358/.364 slash line, .722 OPS, six home runs, 16 RBI, 23 runs scored, and one stolen base in 143 at-bats. With below-average power and speed at a premium position in fantasy, Crawford isn't much to look at. He is currently rostered in only 11% of Yahoo leagues. Crawford has gone 2-for-3 in his three career at-bats against Cameron, but he's gone 7-for-41 (.171) with one of his six homers this year against lefty pitchers.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Trent Grisham Returns From Knee Injury on Friday Against Rays
New York Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham (knee) is back in center field and in the leadoff spot for Friday's series opener against the division-rival Tampa Bay Rays and right-hander Nick Martinez in the Bronx, per MLB.com. Grisham did not play on Thursday against the Toronto Blue Jays in the series finale after tweaking his knee on Thursday. Imaging on Grisham's knee came back negative, though, and he'll be back in there for the start of a big series in New York against the first-place Rays. The 29-year-old left-handed slugger can still provide fantasy managers with plenty of pop, but he has come back down to Earth in 2026 and is currently hitting just .174/.305/.348 with six long balls, 27 RBI, 27 runs scored, and three steals in 187 plate appearances. Grisham has been a big disappointment after clubbing a career-high 34 home runs and driving in 74 in 143 regular-season games in 2025. He has faced Martinez just three times in his career and has one hit against him.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Yandy Diaz Back in Lineup for Rays in Series Opener Against Yanks
Tampa Bay Rays first baseman Yandy Diaz (hands) is serving as the designated hitter and is batting cleanup for the Rays in Friday's series opener against the division-rival New York Yankees and right-hander Gerrit Cole, who is making his first major-league start since 2024, according to MLB.com. Jonathan Aranda is starting at first base for Tampa and will hit third in the batting order. Diaz got the day off on Wednesday against the Baltimore Orioles after being hit in both of his hands on Tuesday, but he's now back in action after the team had a day off on Thursday. Fantasy managers will want to plug Diaz back in their lineups in all formats now that he's back. He has gone 11-for-24 (.458) with three home runs, three doubles, 10 RBI, and seven runs scored during his six-game hitting streak, and he's also batting .318 with an .875 OPS, two home runs, and six RBI in 44 career at-bats against Cole in his career. The 34-year-old Cuban first baseman continues to be a hitting machine, as he enters Friday's action with a .316 average (55-for-174) and a .394 on-base percentage in 45 games.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Ronald Acuna Jr. Returns on Friday After Injuring his Thumb
Atlanta Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. (thumb) departed Thursday's series finale against the Miami Marlins with a left-thumb bone bruise, but he's back in right field and is batting leadoff for Atlanta in Friday's series opener against the division-rival Washington Nationals and left-handed opener Richard Lovelady, according to MLB.com. Thankfully, X-rays came back negative on Acuna, who recently returned from a stint on the injured list due to a hamstring strain. It's great news for the Braves and fantasy managers, and he should be returned to all starting lineups in traditional fantasy formats. Acuna's surface stats don't look great so far in 2026, but in five games since returning from the IL, he's riding a five-game hitting streak and has gone 7-for-17 (.412) with a double, two RBI, seven runs scored, and a stolen base across 20 plate appearances. Overall, the former MVP and five-time All-Star is slashing only .261/.370/.384 with two homers, 11 RBI, seven steals, and 22 runs scored. Acuna is a five-category contributor and could just be starting to heat up.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Jose Caballero Reinstated and Starting on Friday
The New York Yankees officially announced that they reinstated infielder/outfielder Jose Caballero (finger) from the 10-day injured list on Friday. Caballero is starting at shortstop and will hit seventh in his return on Friday versus the visiting Tampa Bay Rays and right-hander Nick Martinez at Yankee Stadium in the series opener. With Caballero back after missing only 11 days due to a right middle-finger fracture, he'll take back over at the 6 and will send Anthony Volpe to the bench. Fantasy managers who need speed and versatility for their fantasy lineups should consider adding Caballero off the waiver wire if he is available. The 29-year-old native of Panama will return to a .259/.320/.400 slash line with a .720 OPS, four home runs, 13 RBI, 13 stolen bases, and 18 runs scored on the year. Caballero offers elite speed and is also eligible at second, third, shortstop, and the outfield. He's rostered in 72% of Yahoo leagues. He has gone hitless in just four career at-bats against Martinez.
Source: New York Yankees
Source: New York Yankees
Cole Ragans Expected to Start a Rehab Assignment on Saturday
The Kansas City Royals expect left-hander Cole Ragans (elbow) to start a minor-league rehab assignment on Saturday with Triple-A Omaha. Ragans has finally been cleared to return to game action after throwing some bullpen sessions in the last week. Saturday will be his first performance since he was placed on the 15-day injured list on May 6 with a left-elbow impingement. The talented southpaw is expected to need a couple of rehab starts in the minors before the Royals put him back in their big-league starting rotation. The 28-year-old left-hander was excellent in 2024, going 11-9 for the Royals with a 3.14 ERA (2.99 FIP) and 1.14 WHIP with a career-high 223 strikeouts and 67 walks in 186 1/3 innings over 32 starts, but he made only 13 starts last year due to injury, and the injury bug has reared its head for him again in 2026. Ragans was 1-4 in his first eight starts in 2026 before going on the IL with a 4.84 ERA (6.19 FIP) and 1.41 WHIP, but he also had 45 K's in 35 1/3 frames and should remain stashed in an IL spot in most fantasy leagues while he recovers to see if he can rediscover his 2024 form.
Source: Kansas City Royals
Source: Kansas City Royals
Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele Looking to Take Sophomore Leap
California quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele displayed the type of talent as a freshman that makes fans realize why they love the game of football so much. One highlight throw after another, Sagapolutele's quick release, zip on the ball, and accuracy make him such a special passer. As a freshman, the 6-foot-3 passer threw for 3,454 yards, 18 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. He impressed late in the season, leading wins over Louisville and SMU. Sagapolutele is surrounded with a lot more talent as a sophomore under first-year head coach Tosh Lupoi. Cal added Rutgers transfer Ian Strong, Ohio transfer Chase Hendricks, New Mexico tight end Dorian Thomas, and Washington running back Adam Mohammed to bolster the group of weapons around their rising star. He should be set up to improve as a sophomore, and could become a household name by the end of the season.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
Jadan Baugh Primed to Lead Florida Offense in 2026
Florida running back Jadan Baugh is penciled in as one of college football's elite playmakers for the upcoming 2026 season. Despite being stuck in a stagnant offense a season ago, Baugh piled up 1,170 rushing yards, eight rushing touchdowns, 210 receiving yards, and two receiving touchdowns. Standing 6-foot-1, 231 pounds, the all-around running back's blend of size, athleticism, and power make him one of the nation's most punishing rushers. In year one under Jon Sumrall, the offense is primed to lean on the rising junior to carry the load. With either Aaron Philo or Tramell Jones Jr. set to start at quarterback, the lack of SEC experience at the quarterback position may naturally make the offense lean more on the ground game. Baugh has limitless talent, and could soar up 2027 NFL Draft boards with a strong season.
Source: ESPN
Source: ESPN
LSU Hires Ed Orgeron As Special Assistant
Former LSU head coach Ed Orgeron has rejoined the Tigers' staff under Lane Kiffin, per Pete Thamel. Orgeron's official title is the special assistant to recruiting and defense. The former Tigers' head coach previously parted ways with the program in 2021, just two years removed from the historic undefeated 2019 season. He has not held a coaching position since, and is returning to the sport after a nearly five-year hiatus. Orgeron went 51-20 as the Tigers' head coach from 2016-2021, finishing at a 31-17 mark in SEC games. The undefeated season with Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and company was the high-point of his tenure, and he hopes to help Kiffin lead the Tigers back to the promised land.
Source: LSU Sports
Source: LSU Sports
Evan Stewart Pushing Oregon Receiving Corps
Oregon wide receiver Evan Stewart (knee) missed the entire 2025 season with a torn patellar tendon, but the senior is fully healthy entering 2026. In a loaded receiver room also featuring Dakorien Moore, Jeremiah McClellan, and Iverson Hooks, Stewart is a leader. Quarterback Dante Moore stated, "Evan's been doing a great job ever since he got back, just being a leader. Even when he wasn't playing, he was being a leader in the facility, the way he carried himself, the way he was still participating in meetings, even though he wasn't able to play. But with him being back and healthy, he's just pushing that room way more, way better." Stewart's presence in a stacked receiving room will be very beneficial for Moore, who is looking to solidify himself as the top quarterback in the 2027 class.
Source: On3
Source: On3
North Carolina and South Carolina Cancel Home-And-Home Series
North Carolina and South Carolina have canceled a home-and-home series that was originally scheduled for 2028-29. The rivalry between the two schools is not played yearly, but they have met five times since 2010. This series is the latest home-and-home between power conference opponents to be nixed as the state of college football continues to evolve. South Carolina has already added Bowling Green to their 2028 schedule as a replacement. North Carolina leads the all-time series with a record of 36-20-4. It remains to be seen when the two programs will meet on the gridiron again.
Source: GoHeels.com
Source: GoHeels.com
Confidence High in Mississippi State's Kamario Taylor
Mississippi State sophomore quarterback Kamario Taylor is set to take over as the starter in 2026 for the Bulldogs. Taylor played sparingly as a true freshman, finishing the season 43-for-77 for 629 yards, five touchdowns, and an interception. He was a weapon on the ground as well, rushing for 458 yards and eight scores. On3 reported that a source told them ""Kamario is going to make plays with his legs. Kamario is going to have some plays where he's just going to go alien mode and take off. Let Kamario do his thing. Don't need anybody to be Superman, just let his talent do its thing." Expectations are rising for the rising sophomore, who could be among the SEC's most electric playmakers in 2026.
Source: On3
Source: On3
Kyle Schwarber Back From Illness to Face the Guardians
Philadelphia Phillies outfielder/designated hitter Kyle Schwarber (illness) is feeling better and is serving as the DH and batting second in Friday's series opener against the visiting Cleveland Guardians and right-hander Gavin Williams, according to MLB.com. Schwarber was under the weather earlier this week and missed the entire three-game series against the Cincinnati Reds, but he's back for the weekend series at Citizens Bank Park. Despite missing three contests, the 33-year-old veteran left-handed slugger still leads all of baseball with 20 home runs and is slashing .230/.357/.624 with a .980 OPS. Schwarbs has added 36 RBI, 33 runs scored, and even a stolen base in his 178 at-bats so far in 2026. Fantasy managers are hoping that the three-time All-Star and former Silver Slugger winner can pick up where he left off before his illness, as he has gone 13-for-43 (.302) with nine home runs, a double, 16 RBI, 10 runs, and a steal in his last 10 games, dating back to May 7. Get him back into your starting lineups in all traditional fantasy formats.
Source: MLB.com
Source: MLB.com
Jonah Tong Promoted to MLB Roster, Worth a Pickup for Strikeout Upside?
The New York Mets recalled top pitching prospect Jonah Tong from Triple-A Syracuse on Friday ahead of their series opener against the division-rival Miami Marlins, according to Will Sammon of The Athletic. In a corresponding move, veteran reliever Craig Kimbrel was designated for assignment. Tobias Myers will make the start in Miami on Friday, but the right-handed Tong could be used as the team's bulk reliever in his return to the majors. Per MLB Pipeline, Tong is considered New York's No. 2 prospect, behind only outfielder A.J. Ewing. The 22-year-old Canadian hurler made his big-league debut last year and made five starts, going 2-3 with a bloated 7.71 ERA and 1.77 WHIP with 22 strikeouts and nine walks across 18 2/3 innings. Before his call-up this year, Tong went 1-3 at Syracuse with an ugly 5.68 ERA, 1.37 WHIP, and 24 walks in nine starts (38 innings), but he also struck out 55 batters. For his strikeout upside alone, Tong is worth a look in mixed fantasy leagues as a potential long-term replacement in the Mets' starting rotation for Clay Holmes (leg). Tong is currently rostered in only 6% of Yahoo leagues, so the young prospect with a funky delivery is widely available.
Source: The Athletic - Will Sammon
Source: The Athletic - Will Sammon
Charlie Condon a Must-Add Prospect with Impressive Discipline and Exit Velocities?
Colorado Rockies first base/outfield prospect Charlie Condon has only slugged four homers this year, but he has above-average power upside and an impressive ability to get on base. Through 40 Triple-A games this year, he's slashing .240/.370/.383 with four homers, 18 RBI, three steals, a career-high 15% walk rate, a 25% strikeout rate, and 88 wRC+. His walk rate ranks in the 80th percentile at Triple-A, and he's shown very good plate discipline overall with a 19.5% chase rate (89th percentile). His 105.7 mph EV90 also suggests that he could be getting unlucky in terms of home runs, and his ability to hit balls hard could lead to increased home run numbers once he reaches the hitter-friendly confines of Coors Field. A high-priority waiver wire target, Condon is available in 96% of leagues, and he ranks #2 among first base prospects in RotoBaller's latest redraft rankings.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Reds Activate Eugenio Suarez From the Injured List on Friday
The Cincinnati Reds announced on Friday that they activated infielder Eugenio Suarez (oblique) from the 10-day injured list and placed infielder Ke'Bryan Hayes (back) on the 10-day IL (retroactive to May 21) in a corresponding move with a lumbar bulging disc. Suarez is back after missing a month with a left-oblique strain, but he'll have to wait to play on Saturday after the game against the division-rival St. Louis Cardinals on Friday was postponed due to inclement weather. Now that he's back, Suarez should play regularly for the Reds between third base and designated hitter. He appeared in just two minor-league rehab games, going 1-for-7 at the plate with a double. The 34-year-old Venezuelan infielder/DH has struck out 30% of the time again in 2026 while hitting .231 (21-for-91) with three home runs, 11 RBI, and 10 runs scored across his 25 games played before his oblique injury. Suarez can be useful for his power from the right side of the plate in a hitter-friendly home environment, but he's not going to help your team's average or on-base percentage. He's currently rostered in 87% of Yahoo leagues.
Source: Cincinnati Reds
Source: Cincinnati Reds
Jett Williams a Versatile Prospect to Stash in Fantasy Baseball
Milwaukee Brewers infield prospect Jett Williams continues to deliver impressive results at Triple-A, earning consideration for a potential midseason promotion to the majors. Williams' blend of power and speed should translate nicely to fantasy production in the majors, and we've been encouraged by his improvements from 2025 (in the Mets' system) to 2026. From last year to this year, his walk rate has increased while his strikeout rate has decreased. He has demonstrated great swing decisions with a 20.3% chase rate, and his 20.4% whiff rate also ranks among the top one-fifth of batters in Triple-A. The biggest flaw in Williams' profile is his 32% hard-hit rate, which is heavily influenced by a 102.1 mph EV90 that ranks in the bottom half of the league. With that said, he's already up to 11 steals this year, and he's an intriguing fantasy baseball stash in hopes that he can tap into a little more power. He currently ranks as RotoBaller's #3 shortstop prospect and #9 outfield prospect.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Reds-Cardinals Game Postponed on Friday
The game on Friday between the Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals in Cincinnati has been postponed due to inclement weather and will be made up as part of a split doubleheader on Saturday, May 23, according to the Reds. Fantasy managers will want to replace any players from the Reds or Cardinals that may have been in their starting lineups for the day. Right-hander Chris Paddack was scheduled to toe the rubber for the Reds at Great American Ballpark, with right-hander Kyle Leahy the scheduled starter for the Cardinals. Both pitchers will most likely be pushed back to one of the games of the doubleheader on Saturday in Cincy. Paddack was cut by the Miami Marlins after going 0-5 with a 7.63 ERA and 1.66 WHIP in seven outings (six starts). He looked better in his first start for the Reds on May 16 against Cleveland, allowing two earned runs with a walk and three K's in five innings for a no-decision. Although Leahy has only 34 K's in 45 2/3 innings across his nine starts for the Red Birds this year, he's gone 5-3 with a 3.94 ERA, 1.55 WHIP, and 9.8% walk rate in 45 2/3 innings pitched.
Source: Cincinnati Reds
Source: Cincinnati Reds
Braden Montgomery Hitting Well at Triple-A, a Top Prospect to Stash?
Chicago White Sox outfield prospect Braden Montgomery continues to produce impressive results at the plate following his promotion to Triple-A earlier this month. Across 15 games with the Charlotte affiliate, he's slashing .274/.338/.452 with two homers, five walks, 18 strikeouts, and 96 wRC+. Although it's a bit too soon for the White Sox to call Montgomery up to the majors, we wouldn't be surprised if he makes his MLB debut at some point this summer. The 23-year-old has produced at every level, offering plus power and defense, as well as average speed and a solid hit tool. Montgomery's average exit velocity of 93.3 mph (94th percentile) should play at the next level, resulting in plenty of power. Therefore, he's a top prospect to stash in fantasy baseball leagues. He ranks #19 among outfield prospects in RotoBaller's latest dynasty rankings.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Giants, GM Joe Schoen Agree on a Multi-Year Extension
The New York Giants and general manager Joe Schoen agreed to terms on a multi-year contract extension on Thursday to keep him working with new head coach John Harbaugh for years to come, according to Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo of the NFL Network. The 47-year-old Schoen, along with former head coach Brian Daboll, joined the Giants in 2022. Daboll was fired in October of last year, but the Giants kept Schoen around and trusted him to lead their search for a new head coach, which ultimately led to the hiring of Harbaugh. Before joining the G-Men, Schoen spent five seasons as the assistant GM for the Buffalo Bills under Brandon Beane. New York went 9-7-1 and won a playoff game in Schoen's first year with the organization, but they went 13-38 in the next three seasons. Despite a rough last three years, the Giants ownership is optimistic about the direction of the franchise, and they have liked how Schoen and Harbaugh have worked together early on.
Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport
Source: NFL Network - Ian Rapoport
Cole Carrigg a Top Stolen Base Threat to Stash in Fantasy Leagues?
Colorado Rockies outfield prospect Cole Carrigg is having a fantastic year at the plate in Triple-A, and it seems likely that he'll make his MLB debut within the next couple of weeks. From last year to this year, Carrigg has improved in nearly every offensive category. He owns a .356/.413/.537 walk rate with four homers, 35 RBI, 26 steals, an 8.1% walk rate, a 13.7% strikeout rate, and 131 wRC+. The power numbers are merely average, but he has blazing speed that he uses to steal a ton of bases and play dependable defense up the middle. Most of his reps have come in center field, but he also has 13 appearances at shortstop this year. That type of defensive versatility will help him get into as many games as possible once he's promoted to the majors. With impressive on-base and steal numbers, plus an anticipated promotion sooner rather than later, Carrigg is a must-add prospect in fantasy baseball leagues. As it stands, he's available in 99% of leagues.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Giants Managing Multiple Injuries for Andrew Thomas
The New York Giants are wisely managing offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (foot, shoulder) this spring as he works his way back from multiple injuries, according to Art Stapleton of The North Jersey Bergen Record. Thomas is working through a Lisfranc foot injury, and his shoulder has also been "barking" this offseason. The 27-year-old offensive lineman is being smart about it, but the irony is that Thomas is doing more now than he has in recent seasons, and he took part in the team's first two OTA practices this week. In addition to his foot and shoulder injuries, Thomas ended last year on Injured Reserve due to a hamstring injury. The former fourth overall pick in 2020 out of Georgia only made 13 starts for the G-Men in 2025 in his sixth season in the league, and he's played in 29 games over the last three years due to injuries. Barring another injury or a setback with his foot or shoulder, Thomas should be ready to go in Week 1 on Sunday Night Football against the division-rival Dallas Cowboys.
Source: The North Jersey Bergen Record - Art Stapleton
Source: The North Jersey Bergen Record - Art Stapleton
George Lombard Jr. Worth Stashing Due to High Walk Rate in Minors?
New York Yankees shortstop George Lombard Jr. has posted mixed results at the plate since his promotion to Triple-A, but there's no denying that he's an on-base machine. Lombard has walked more than he's struck out in Triple-A, and he also has more walks than hits. He's slashing .178/.362/.205 at Scranton/Wilkes-Barre with zero homers, four steals, a 20.2% walk rate, and a 18.1% strikeout rate. We'd like to see a little more power, but it's also a small sample size. Between Double-A and Triple-A combined this year, he has four homers and eight steals. The impressive on-base percentage and decent steals total could make him an intriguing stash in deeper fantasy baseball leagues. His MLB debut isn't imminent, as he's played just 19 games in Triple-A, but there's definitely long-term upside here. He ranks #27 among shortstop prospects in RotoBaller's latest dynasty fantasy baseball rankings.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Cam Ward Loses 10 Pounds in the Offseason
Tennessee Titans second-year quarterback Cam Ward has looked noticeably slimmer during OTA practices this week, and he said he lost around 10 pounds in the offseason after weighing 219 pounds in 2025 in his first year in the NFL, according to Turron Davenport of ESPN. "I think it'll help me with durability," Ward said. "Just being faster, getting up in the pocket, and trying to play my speed. I watch my diet more, continue to have more cardio, just work on my body, just now here and when I'm away from the building." The 23-year-old was taken first overall by the Titans in last year's draft out of the University of Miami, and he was the team's starter from Day 1. He ultimately struggled in his first NFL campaign, completing 59.8% of his passes for 3,169 yards, 15 touchdowns, and seven interceptions to finish as the QB22 in fantasy scoring. Ward also focused on strengthening his right shoulder after injuring it in the regular-season finale in January. He is perfectly healthy now and has looked good throwing the football during offseason workouts. The hope is that Ward will take a step forward in his sophomore season under new play-caller Brian Daboll with an improved supporting cast around him. Fantasy managers should target Ward as a low-end QB2 in superflex leagues with upside.
Source: ESPN.com - Turron Davenport
Source: ESPN.com - Turron Davenport
Edwin Arroyo a Top Hitter to Stash Ahead of MLB Debut?
Cincinnati Reds shortstop prospect Edwin Arroyo hit his 10th homer of the season at Triple-A on Thursday, and he's getting closer to making his MLB debut. Arroyo is having a fantastic season at the plate, posting a career-best .348/.408/.604 slash line with 10 homers, eight steals, a 8.3% walk rate, a 15.1% strikeout rate, and 159 wRC+. He's walking less than ever before in his minor league career, and he has also delivered more home runs and steals. This is truly a breakout year for the infield prospect, and it's coming at the right time as he pushes for a promotion to the majors. With 46 Triple-A games under his belt, it seems like Arroyo is ready for the next level. With a potential debut coming in June, Arroyo is absolutely on the stash radar in fantasy baseball, especially because he offers both speed and power.
Source: RotoBaller
Source: RotoBaller
Yusei Kikuchi Hopes to Return in the Second Half of the Season
Los Angeles Angels left-hander Yusei Kikuchi (shoulder) said earlier this week that he's set to start his throwing program soon after being diagnosed with left-shoulder inflammation in early May, and he's hopeful that he can return in the early part of the second half of the season, according to Rhett Bollinger of MLB.com. Kikuchi was placed on the 15-day injured list after leaving his start early after two innings on April 29 with shoulder discomfort. Surgery was never considered an option despite receiving a second opinion from a personal doctor. Kikuchi believes that he can return by late July. Fantasy managers won't be in a rush to pick Kikuchi up off the waiver wire -- he's currently rostered in only 12% of Yahoo leagues -- after the 34-year-old southpaw had a 5.81 ERA with 33 strikeouts, 14 walks, and three homers allowed in 31 innings over seven starts before his shoulder injury. Managers have quickly forgotten that Kikuchi was an All-Star for the second time in his career in Anaheim in 2025, registering a 3.99 ERA with 174 K's in 178 1/3 innings pitched. UPDATE: The Angels moved Kikuchi to the 60-day injured list on Friday.
Source: MLB.com - Rhett Bollinger
Source: MLB.com - Rhett Bollinger
