2026 Fantasy Baseball: Latest Head-to-Head (H2H) categories mock draft shows the benefits of having dual aces
CBS Sports
by
Scott White
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article discusses the benefits of selecting two top-tier starting pitchers early in a fantasy baseball draft, particularly in a Head-to-Head (H2H) categories league. The author highlights Tarik Skubal, Garrett Crochet, and Paul Skenes as elite options whose value surpasses other pitchers by about three rounds' worth. By taking both Crochet and Skenes early in the 12th pick of a mock draft, the author demonstrates how this strategy can free up the rest of the draft to focus on hitters without worrying about pitching shortages later.
The key advantage lies in the direct impact of ratios (like ERA and strikeouts) in H2H leagues. These metrics directly influence scoring, making the top pitchers even more valuable. The author emphasizes that by securing two aces early, they can confidently prioritize building a strong hitting lineup, knowing their pitching needs are already covered.
In Round 3, the author faced limited hitter options, with Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts being the best available. Despite initial concerns about lacking depth in hitting, Rounds 5-6 offered Josh Naylor and Cody Bellinger, providing solid contributions while allowing flexibility to address other positions later. The strategy also allowed for picking versatile players like Bo Bichette and Randy Arozarena in deeper rounds, maximizing utility and minimizing weaknesses.
This approach underscores the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in fantasy drafts. By leveraging the unique structure of H2H leagues, the author shows how taking dual aces can significantly simplify the drafting process, allowing for a balanced team without sacrificing overall value. For readers interested in sports and fantasy baseball, this highlights innovative strategies to gain a competitive edge in their own leagues.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/26/2026