The MLB season is nearly a week in, and the race for a fantasy title is underway. The season is a long grind, not a sprint. Prospects will play a part in that. Everyone hopes that each top prospect that is called up has a Julio Rodriguez-type rookie season. But Rodriguez is the exception rather than the rule.
When stashing prospects, you have to be strategic. You need to know your league settings and determine whether it is worth having a stash. I would not recommend more than one stash in an NFBC 15-team format with no IL and a 7-person bench. But maybe you have NA spots in which you can place a player. League context matters here.
This bi-weekly article will look at the top players to stash and expectations of when players could debut.
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Top Prospects to Stash for Fantasy Baseball
* Brett Baty was number one on the list, but his thumb injury throws some doubt on when he could debut
* Grayson Rodriguez was ranked second, but he is being called up and making his MLB debut on Wednesday.
- Brandon Pfaadt (SP – ARI) – Pfaadt led the Minors in innings and strikeouts last season. Bumgarner’s injury could open a spot. ETA: April
- Vaughn Grissom (SS – ATL) – Grissom had a great spring and is swinging the bat well in Triple-A. Arcia as the Braves’ everyday shortstop may not last long. ETA: April
- Edouard Julien (2B – MIN) – Julien does not fit well at any position, but his bat will play anywhere. Julien had a great Spring Training and could soon earn his spot with the Twins. ETA: May
- Chase Silseth (SP – LAA) – Silseth looked dominant in his first Triple-A start and would make the Angels rotation better. Don’t be surprised when he earns the fifth spot soon. ETA: May
- Sal Frelick (OF – MIL) – Joey Wiemer may have beaten Frelick to the Majors, but any struggles could lead Frelick to get his shot. Frelick is the better pure hitter, despite Wiemer having great tools. ETA: May
- Curtis Mead (2B/3B – TB) – Mead’s biggest issue is that he does not have a position. Contact and power are high-end, though. ETA: May
- Kyle Manzardo (1B – TB) – Manzardo is much like Mead. There is little room in Tampa’s lineup, but both bats will improve their lineup. Manzardo is showing big power to add to his elite hit tool. ETA: May
- Gavin Stone (SP – LAD) – Ryan Pepiot was given the first crack at the five spot, but an injury led Michael Grove to get the spot. Stone was the best pitcher in the Minors last season and should be the next man up if Grove falters. ETA: May
- Bobby Miller (SP – LAD) – With the Stone talk, it is important to note that Miller is also a stud. His arsenal is that of an ace if he finds more command. He could also be in line for a debut soon in Los Angeles. ETA: May
- Endy Rodriguez (C – PIT) – Rodriguez just hits. He has hit at every stop and developed more power last season. He is versatile and can play multiple positions but he is good enough to be an everyday catcher with a great bat. ETA: May
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