Fantasy baseball: Don't forget these injured players on draft day - ESPN

ESPN

by Eric Karabell

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Fantasy baseball draft day is approaching, and while many managers focus on healthy stars, it's crucial not to overlook injured players who could make a significant impact later in the season. In this article, Eric Karabell highlights several key names that might be forgotten but could prove valuable once they return from injuries. Gerrit Cole, a former top-tier pitcher with the New York Yankees, is one such player to keep on your radar. Despite his impressive career stats, including 153 wins and a stellar ERA, Cole has been sidelined since undergoing Tommy John surgery in 2024. While he may not be among the top draft picks this year, his potential as a mid-summer acquisition makes him a worthwhile stash for teams with an injured list spot. Other notable names include Corbin Carroll of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Francisco Lindor of the New York Mets, both sidelined due to hamate bone injuries. While these players could miss only brief time early in the season, their track records suggest they remain valuable assets once fully healthy. Lindor, a reliable second baseman with strong power and stolen base numbers, is particularly worth monitoring despite his recent setbacks. Josh Hader of the Houston Astros, known for his elite relief pitching over the past six seasons, is also dealing with biceps inflammation. While he may not miss significant time, Houston's cautious approach could mean a slower return to form. Meanwhile, Blake Snell of the Los Angeles Dodgers remains a potential fantasy steal despite ongoing shoulder issues, as his past performance indicates elite potential. For fantasy managers, these injured players represent opportunities for mid-season gains. By keeping an eye on their progress and considering stashing them in IL spots, teams can gain a competitive edge later in the season. Remember, patience and careful monitoring of these key names could pay off big when they return to form.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/26/2026