Every week in Major League Baseball brings new surprises that can make or break a fantasy season. As the month progresses, managers must sift through the noise to identify reliable contributors and emerging breakout players.
Ciclianone’s rapid rise has made him one of the most sought‑after hitters in ESPN standard leagues. The 23‑year‑old outfielder and first baseman boasts a recent stretch that includes six home runs in five games—a far cry from just five homers in the first two months of the season.
His power numbers are complemented by league‑leading exit velocity, barrel rate, and hard‑hit percentage, while he has drastically reduced ground balls and improved performance against left‑handed pitching. Tracing the trajectory of his recent performances shows a player whose numbers have finally caught up to his talent.
Although Caglianone entered the season as a question mark—primarily due to a low contact rate and limited power in his rookie year—his current line has started to click. He has a 29.2% strike‑out rate, a solid launch angle, and a robust profile that should carry him past the 40‑home‑run mark if the recent trend continues.
Fantasy managers should consider adding Caglianone now that his breakout is underway, especially given his strong numbers from the 3rd spot in the lineup and his production while playing first base.
Contreras brothers are delivering strong offensive performances that could translate into high fantasy output.
Milwaukee Brewers catcher William Contreras is hitting .295 and is on pace for 90 runs and 97 RBI, while Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras is hitting a career‑high .281 with 34 home runs and 95 RBI this season. The older brother’s power surge is a welcome surprise for a team that has historically struggled with home run production.
Both brothers allow relatively few strikeouts and play consistently, making them valuable in points‑based formats. Their continued production throughout the season will be critical for teams looking to capitalize on the run differential in current standings.
Although the older Contreras is available in a sizable portion of ESPN league rosters, his potential to reach a 100‑RBI campaign remains high, especially with possible contributions from fellow Red Sox outfielder Roman Anthony in the mix.
Pirates’ five hitters are reshaping the team’s offensive profile, offering unexpected potential in fantasy points contests.
Historically limited by run output, the Pittsburgh Pirates have made significant offseason moves, adding Brandon Lowe, Ryan O’Hearn, Marcell Ozuna, and the promising shortstop prospect Konnor Griffin. Their recent offensive surge now places them fifth in runs per game league‑wide.
Key contributors include left fielder Bryan Reynolds, who has returned from a difficult 2025 season and is now among the top 10 hitters in fantasy points this year. Outfielder Oneil Cruz and first baseman Spencer Horwitz also provide valuable bat power and run production.
Prospect Konnor Griffin, currently sidelined with a forearm strain, has shown early signs of future star potential and is expected to join the lineup soon, possibly elevating the Pirates’ offensive impact further.
For fantasy managers, incorporating these five Pirates—particularly Reynolds, Lowe, and the emerging Griffin—could offer a substantial upside with their current trajectory toward higher walk rates, power, and consistent run production.
