Fantasy Baseball Rankings 2026: Sleepers by prediction model that called Randy Arozarena's enormous year
CBS Sports
by
Ross Kelly
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Fantasy baseball enthusiasts looking for an edge in their 2026 drafts should turn to SportsLine's projection model, which has a proven track record of identifying sleepers. Last year, the model correctly predicted Randy Arozarena's career-best season after he was traded to the Seattle Mariners. Now, it is pointing to players like Mets outfielder Luis Robert Jr. and Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd as potential breakout stars in 2026. These players are being overlooked by fantasy owners but could deliver strong performances based on their skill sets and new surroundings.
Robert, who turned in a standout season with the White Sox in 2023 but has struggled since moving to the Mets, is projected to rebound thanks to his elite speed and improved home-run environment at Citi Field. Despite being ranked as the No. 7 fantasy outfielder, his ADP of 159 makes him a late-round value pick with high upside. Meanwhile, Boyd, who had a career year in 2025 with 14 wins and an All-Star nod, is flying under the radar at No. 39 among starting pitchers but could repeat his success in Chicago.
The model's ability to adapt to new information, such as trades and injuries, ensures its projections remain accurate and relevant throughout the season. Fantasy players can use SportsLine's cheat sheets, updated multiple times daily, to gain an edge in their drafts. With limited competition aware of these sleepers' potential, now is the time to target undervalued players who could steal fantasy categories in 2026.
This approach matters because identifying sleepers gives fantasy owners a strategic advantage, allowing them to build competitive teams without overpaying for hyped players. By leveraging data-driven insights, SportsLine helps fantasy enthusiasts stay ahead of the curve and maximize their chances of winning their leagues. For those serious about optimizing their draft strategy, these projections are an invaluable
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/22/2026