Outlook Michael Busch
Michael Busch’s powerful breakout secures his future as a corner-infield cornerstone.
After being traded to the Cubs, Michael Busch immediately grabbed hold of the everyday starting role at first base. Playing his home games at Wrigley Field and slotted firmly into the middle of the order, the 28-year-old has established himself as a prominent run-producer. Given his secure playing time and age-28 prime, he enters the season as a highly stable option at a historically demanding fantasy position.
Our data strongly supports Busch's ability to provide impactful category contributions. Following a highly impressive 2025 campaign in which he slugged 38 home runs, our projection slates him for nearly 500 at-bats with 16 home runs and 50 RBIs. While his batting average is expected to hover around a neutral .247, his excellent walk rate keeps his on-base percentage hovering around a much more valuable .330, making him a major asset in OBP and points formats.
Busch's current ADP sits around pick 132, representing a solid value opportunity for managers looking to secure reliable power without paying an early-round premium. While he does not offer much speed, his secure volume and proven power profile make him an incredibly safe floor play with the clear ceiling of another 30-homer season if things break his way.
Updated 1 day ago
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Outlook Samuel Basallo
Basallo Seeks Cure for Slump Ahead of Challenging West Coast Road Trip
Samuel Basallo is working through a slump, batting just .143 over his last 14 days, though he recently snapped an 0-for-13 skid with his 10th home run of the year. The 21-year-old has fully recovered from minor abdominal discomfort earlier this month and remains secure in his role as the fourth-place Orioles' primary designated hitter and backup catcher. His everyday presence in the lineup provides a steady source of plate appearances despite Baltimore's recent struggles.
While his recent skid is frustrating, Basallo's overall 2026 numbers with a .258 average and 10 home runs show his immense upside. Our models project him to hit .237 with 13 home runs over 375 at-bats for the season, suggesting his power will remain a viable asset. Given his elite minor league pedigree and strong quality of contact, expect his average to rebound toward his career baseline rather than plummeting further.
This week, the Orioles embark on a tough six-game road trip against the Mariners and Dodgers, facing elite arms like Yoshinobu Yamamoto with his 2.52 ERA and Logan Gilbert. Our weekly projection expects a modest .227 average and 0.9 home runs over 19 projected at-bats during these challenging matchups. Due to the high-quality pitching on tap and his recent cold streak, fantasy managers should look for alternative options. Verdict: Sit.
Updated 1 day ago
