Yes, it’s that time of year again. Fantasy baseball is back in session, as the 2026 MLB season will kick off with the Yankees and Giants on March 25. So with fantasy baseball seasons getting started, let’s take a look at which hitters are worth an early look on the waiver wire to start 2026.
Best Week 1 hitters to target
- C Samuel Basallo (Orioles)
- OF Carson Benge (Mets)
- 1B/2B/SS Jake Cronenworth (Padres)
- OF Chase DeLauter (Guardians)
- OF TJ Friedl (Reds)
For those who are new to the site, let me break down how we choose players. We take what we believe are the five best hitters available, based on several factors, including position(s), recent performances, and formats. Additionally, a player should be available in more than 50% of leagues to be considered for our waiver wire target list.
Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, let’s move on.
Chase DeLauter had a loud camp with the Guardians. The Cleveland outfielder, including the two-home run outburst he had in Chase Field on the 23rd, had 17 hits to pace the Guardians this spring.
Through March 24, DeLauter had a spring Barrel% of 12% and a Whiff% of 14.1%. Do those numbers matter too much? Not really. However, DeLauter has long been very consistent in making contact. Thus, making him a low-strikeout candidate for points leagues. But additionally, there’s a lot of power potential here — so long as he stays healthy.
Speaking of rookie outfielders, Carson Benge made the Mets. For those who missed the boat on McGonigle or Wetherholt in drafts, Benge is a nice supplementary option. Benge has the potential to be a low-strikeout hitter who can walk a lot (hint: points leagues) but also provide some power, as well.
Another outfielder worth a look in deeper leagues is TJ Friedl. You’re not going to get a ton of pop from Friedl, although he did hit 18 home runs last season. But if he can replicate that and continue to make consistent contact, he’s worth an add. Friedl finished camp with 15 hits over 17 contests.
Samuel Basallo has to be owned in more leagues. A prodigious power hitter in the Minors, Basallo has the chance to do very well with Camden Yards’ short porch in right field. The big question, though, is how much he’ll play over the first few weeks.
The O’s have a lot of mouths to feed in that lineup. Adley Rutschman should still see plenty of time behind the dish, meaning Basallo will get looks at DH. But how much time? Baltimore has Pete Alonso, who will play every day either at first or DH. Plus, Ryan Mountcastle, who profiles better against left-handed pitchers.
Lastly, Jake Cronenworth is a nice option in both points and roto formats. Cronenworth had 14 hits with the Padres during exhibition action.
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