Outlook Pete Crow-Armstrong
Five-category stud with elite power-speed upside offers early-round return potential.
Pete Crow-Armstrong enters the campaign cemented as the franchise cornerstone and everyday center fielder for the Cubs. After signing a massive six-year contract extension, the 24-year-old outfielder is locked into a premium role where his world-class defense guarantees him everyday playing time. At his current ADP around the fifth round, fantasy managers are drafting a dynamic speedster who is just entering his physical prime.
Our models project another highly productive fantasy season for Crow-Armstrong, expecting nearly 20 home runs, 71 runs, 71 RBIs, and 27 stolen bases over 560 at-bats. While his career .282 on-base percentage highlights some plate-discipline risk, his raw power-speed output mirrors his 2025 campaign where he joined Sammy Sosa as the only Cubs with a 30-homer, 30-steal season. Even if his batting average hovers in the .240s, his elite contribution to the counting stats makes him an invaluable asset.
Ultimately, Crow-Armstrong is a high-upside, five-category contributor with a incredibly high fantasy floor due to his defensive security. Fantasy managers looking to secure premium speed without sacrificing power should target him aggressively at his current market price, as his ceiling is that of a top-20 overall player.
Updated 3 days ago
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Outlook Casey Schmitt
Casey Schmitt's power surge makes him a must-roster utility asset
Schmitt has been on a tear, swatting three home runs and driving in five runs over his last seven games for the fourth-place Giants. His elite defensive versatility has kept his bat in the lineup daily, especially with outfield injuries locking him in as an everyday starter.
While our models projected a modest eight home runs for the season, Schmitt has already blown past that with a career-high 15 longballs in 2026. His current .276 average is a substantial leap from his career mark of .237 in 2025, suggesting minor regression may lie ahead, but the breakout is largely legitimate.
The Giants finish their week at home against the Cubs, offering a mixed bag of matchups. Schmitt will face a tough test Friday against Ben Brown and his stingy 1.74 ERA, but Sunday brings an excellent opportunity against Colin Rea's 5.37 ERA. Weekly Verdict: Start.
Updated 3 days ago
