Fantasy Baseball Draft Prep: Breaking down February's ADP risers and fallers
CBS Sports
by
Chris Towers
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Fantasy Baseball Draft Prep: Fantasy baseball enthusiasts are closely monitoring ADP (Average Draft Position) trends as injury concerns, player hype, and market shifts reshape draft boards ahead of Opening Day. With the majority of drafts still to come—last year, 65% of CBS Fantasy drafts occurred in the final 10 days before the season—it’s crucial for players to stay updated on rising and falling stars. The article highlights key ADP risers and fallers, emphasizing how these shifts can impact draft strategies. For example, pitchers like Eury Perez and batters like Austin Riley are seeing significant movement, reflecting both player performance and positional scarcity.
The article delves into specific cases, such as Eury Perez’s rise from 99.25 to 92.33 ADP, showcasing his growing value in the pitching market. At third base, players like Austin Riley (70.61 to 65.73) and Maikel Garcia (72.88 to 68.5) are beneficiaries of positional scarcity, as their ADPs drop despite concerns about Riley’s strikeout and walk rates last season. Meanwhile, Nick Kurtz’s fall from 99.25 to 92.33 highlights how market corrections can create opportunities for drafters willing to act swiftly.
ADP trends matter because they provide insights into player valuation and help drafters make informed decisions. While ADP is a guide, it’s not set in stone—players can fall or rise based on factors like injuries, performance expectations, or league dynamics. By tracking these shifts, fantasy players can capitalize on undervalued talent or avoid overpaying for hyped players. The article underscores the importance of staying agile and adaptable during the drafting process to maximize roster potential.
Ultimately, understanding ADP trends is essential for competitive fantasy baseball play. It allows drafters to identify hidden gems and make strategic picks that align with their league’s dynamics. Whether it’s locking in rising stars or nabbing undervalued players like Nick Kurtz, staying attuned to these shifts can give teams a significant edge. As the article reminds readers, ADP is just a starting point—smart drafters know how to use it to their advantage.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/3/2026