2026 Fantasy Baseball Draft Prep: Breakouts 2.0 for Scott White adds JJ Wetherholt, Andrew Painter to the mix
CBS Sports
by
Scott White
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Fantasy baseball enthusiasts looking for a refreshed list of breakout players should take note as Scott White's latest 2026 Fantasy Baseball Draft Prep: Breakouts 2.0 introduces new faces to watch. Following recent trades, signings, injuries, and player performances, the updated list highlights emerging talent poised for significant strides in the upcoming season.
Among the newcomers is Eury Perez, a Marlins pitcher who showed promise before undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2024. Despite initial setbacks, Perez rebounded with dominant stretches late last season, logging a 2.70 ERA and a staggering 33 strikeouts over just 20 innings. His improved mechanics and control suggest he's on the verge of fulfilling his potential as an ace.
Another standout is Nick Lodolo of the Reds, who delivered career-best numbers in 2025 but still has room to grow. While his overall strikeout rate was lower than previous seasons, Lodolo showcased a late-season surge with a 10.3 K/9 and a swinging-strike rate rivaling Tarik Skubal's. His curveball dominance and elite control make him a pitcher to watch for even higher ceilings in 2026.
Gabriel Moreno, the Diamondbacks' young catcher, rounds out the new additions. At just 21 years old, Moreno demonstrated impressive power and control behind the plate last season. With time to refine his skills and build on his solid foundation, he could be a hidden gem for fantasy teams seeking long-term upside.
These breakout candidates offer valuable insights for drafters looking to capitalize on undervalued talent. As the article emphasizes, staying updated on player developments is crucial, especially when mechanical changes or injury recoveries spark potential breakthroughs. For fantasy baseball fans, these updates provide essential tools to build competitive rosters with hidden gems and high-upside players.
In
Verticals
sports
Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/23/2026