Fantasy Baseball Rankings 2026: Sleepers by prediction model that called Randy Arozarena's huge year
CBS Sports
by
Ross Kelly
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Fantasy baseball enthusiasts are gearing up for the 2026 season as MLB Spring Training kicks off, with many looking to uncover hidden gems in their drafts. SportsLine's Projection Model has proven its ability to identify sleepers by accurately predicting Randy Arozarena's breakout year in 2025 after he was traded from Tampa Bay to Seattle. Now, the model is back with updated rankings and cheat sheets for the upcoming season, helping fantasy owners find undervalued players before their competition.
One of the top sleepers identified by SportsLine is Mets outfielder Luis Robert Jr., who emerged as one of baseball's most versatile players in 2023 with 38 home runs, 80 RBI, and 20 stolen bases. However, injuries and a trade to the Yankees have limited his production over the past two seasons. At just 28 years old, Robert Jr.'s speed remains intact, and he set a career high in stolen bases last year with 33. His move from Chicago's Guaranteed Rate Field to New York's Citi Field, which is more favorable for hitting home runs, could boost his power numbers in 2026.
Another key player on SportsLine's radar is Cubs starting pitcher Matthew Boyd. After struggling over the previous four seasons with inconsistent performances across three teams, Boyd broke out in 2025 with 14 wins and a first-time All-Star selection at age 34. Despite his strong showing last year, fantasy owners may view it as an outlier, as Boyd is ranked outside the top 40 starting pitchers heading into 2026. However, his success in his first season with the Cubs suggests that changing organizations can unlock a player's potential.
These rankings and projections are particularly valuable for fantasy players looking to gain a competitive edge in their drafts. By identifying sleepers like Robert Jr. and Boyd, who could exceed expectations based on their new environments and improved health, fantasy owners can build stronger teams without overpaying for well-known stars. SportsLine's model continues to be a trusted resource for fantasy advice, regularly updating its projections as news about free agents, trades, and injuries emerge.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/20/2026