​The 2026 MLB Draft has concluded, and now the real excitement begins: watching these players test themselves against professional pitching and hitting as they strive to bolster their new organizations at the game’s highest level. Some of these players will be ready to contribute within a year, others will require considerably more development, and inevitably there will be talented prospects who never get the chance to play in a major league game. Here’s a fantasy-focused look at the top 10 draft picks from the weekend and how they might help in various categories.
1. Grady Emerson, SS, Tampa Bay Rays
Emerson may have gone second overall and finished second on my MLB Draft big board, but from a fantasy vantage point he’s the standout. He’s a left-handed hitter with the potential for a double-plus (70 on the 20-80 scouting scale) hit tool thanks to his bat speed and smooth swing.Power sits in his profile as well, and what sets him apart is his likelihood to steal bases. While there’s a touch more risk in his package than in the next name, there’s arguably no higher upside, making him my top choice in any eligible fantasy draft. Potential category help: AVG, R, HR, SB.
2. Roch Cholowsky, SS, Chicago White Sox
Emerson may be the leader, but Cholowsky isn’t far behind and could easily be considered the best overall. He dominated college ball and hits from the right side with a proven ability to average and show power. If he were thrust into the majors today, he’d likely fare well, though we won’t do that. He’s not a huge threat on the basepaths, but he should remain at shortstop, with 30-plus homer seasons paired with a .275 or better average potentially becoming the norm. If you’re chasing a blend of safety with ceiling, Cholowsky could be your pick. Potential category help: AVG, HR, RBI.
3. Jacob Lombard, SS, Miami Marlins
If risk doesn’t scare you, Lombard might be your guy. His profile comes with significant risk—particularly for a prep hitter—due to contact issues. Yet his bat has game-ready power from the right side and he shows a quick, jumpy ball off the bat. He’s a 65-grade runner, implying the possibility of 50 stolen bases alongside 30 home runs. This volatility could yield a future star at shortstop or a cautionary tale—either way, Lombard’s upside is tantalizing. Potential category help: R, HR, RBI, SB.
4. Vahn Lackey, C, Minnesota Twins
Lackey’s stock surged more than any college bat in the class, and his ascent reflects a strong all-around development path. While the previous lines might suggest a preference for the run-producing side, Lackey brings offensive upside paired with a solid defensive game behind the plate, adding a practical, long-term fantasy floor. His development could translate into steady contributions across multiple categories as he climbs the ladder. Potential category help: OBP, RBI, R, HR.
(Additional context and prospects beyond the top four continue to shape the fantasy landscape, with each player offering a unique blend of tools, risk, and potential category contributions. As the season progresses, keep an eye on their development trajectories, minor league assignments, and opportunities within their organizations, all of which will influence their fantasy value and the categories where they can make the biggest impact.)