2018 Dynasty Top 101 Prospects List

Image credit: USA Today Sports

We always think we’ll end up disagreeing more than we end up disagreeing. “Averaging out” two individual lists isn’t quite as simple as it seems, you see. When one of us ranks a player (Bo Bichette) 15th and the other 17th, it’s easy enough to reconcile the difference. But what about when one of us ranks a player (Alec Hansen) 38 and the other lists him at 74? How do you reconcile one list having a player (Jack Flaherty) at 67 and the other list not having that player at all?

You get on the phone or you hop on gchat and you hash it out, is the answer, and you involve a heavy does of outside critique as well (thanks, Craig). It’s time consuming and involves more research and it often ends up in a ranking that neither of us are super happy with, but that we can both live with. It keeps us honest. It teaches us a few new things. We have a healthy relationship, is what we’re saying.

Now, we’d be in trouble if we had to do that for 30 or 40 players, but this year, we only had to do it for…about seven. Yes, we only had seven players (among the first 90 — for the last 10 we just hand pick favorites) ranked more than 25 spots away from each other on our initial lists. Why are we telling you this and why should you care? To give you fair notice that, as much as the two-person approach to list-making tries to chip away at our little echo chamber, it’s fair to say that chamber is still very real. We talk a lot. We have some of the same sources. The overlap is inevitable. It’s how we had Luis Garcia ranked in the 50s before Craig talked us off the ledge. It’s why non-elite pitchers are arguably undervalued. It’s why we still even bothered to mention Zack Collins at all (luv u, Bret). If you’ve read us before, you’ll see our biases here. We don’t know that it’s inherently bad, but we felt it worthy of mentioning.

So keep that in mind when you’re browsing this list. Oh, and it’s a good list, by the way. There’s a ton of talent at the top. There are sleepers galore. We’re stuck with fewer “well, at least he’s close to the majors” types overall this year. The players just seem more fun, and that makes the list more fun, and we think you’ll enjoy reading about the talent.

There are a few list-specific disclaimers to go over before we jump in. Again, these rankings are for fantasy purposes only, and do not directly take into account things like an outfielder’s ability to stick in center or a catcher’s pop time. Of course, these things do matter indirectly as they affect a player’s ability to either stay in the lineup or maintain eligibility. Additionally, home parks and organizational strengths need to be factored in, just as when we are talking about a major-league player. We can’t pretend that these prospects operate in a vacuum, unaffected by park factors. Of course, there’s no guarantee that they will reach the majors with their current organization, so while it is reflected, it’s not a heavy ranking factor. Most importantly, the intention of this list is to balance the upside, probability, and proximity of these players to an active fantasy lineup.

Within the list below, you’ll find important information about each prospect, including their potential fantasy value (in dollars) at their peak and the risk factor associated with reaching their projected output. Also, you will find a fantasy overview, which summarizes how many categories each player will be useful in, along with any that carry impact. For this exercise, we defined “impact” has having the potential to be in the top 15-20 players in a given category. For instance, impact in home runs roughly equates to the potential to hit 30, impact in steals is 25, and impact for strikeouts is the potential to punch out 200. Then you’ll see a realistic ceiling and floor for each prospect, purely in terms of rotisserie value. The comments are brief because we’ve already written fantasy-specific comments on each of these players in the individual top-10 lists.

Now that you’ve read the not-so-fine print (just kidding, we know no one reads list intros), here are your new best 101 prospects for dynasty leagues:

Tier 1: Potential 1-1 Picks

1. Ronald Acuna, OF, Braves (Age: 20, Previous Rank: 26)

Potential Earnings: $35+
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in everything
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: You’ll draft him over Mike Trout some day
Realistic Floor: Justin Upton

2. Victor Robles, OF, Nationals (Age: 20, Previous Rank: 4)

Potential Earnings: $35+
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Properly appreciated Starling Marte is too apt to change
Realistic Floor: Ender Inciarte

3. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., 3B, Blue Jays (Age: 19, Previous Rank: 61)

Potential Earnings: $30-35
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2019
Realistic Ceiling: The Miguel Cabrera career path
Realistic Floor: Jose Abreu

Tier 1.5: Future Fantasy Franchise Cornerstones

4. Brendan Rodgers, SS, Rockies (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 6)

Potential Earnings: $30-35
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: *~stares hopefully at an old picture of Troy Tulowitzki~*
Realistic Floor: Slower Javier Baez

5. Eloy Jimenez, OF, White Sox (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 12)

Potential Earnings: $30-35
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: The Benjamin Button version of Nelson Cruz
Realistic Floor: A 30-homer outfielder who stalls out as an OF3

6. Gleyber Torres, INF, Yankees (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 21)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Jose Ramirez, minus 10-or-so steals
Realistic Floor: I think we said Starlin Castro last year, but…Starlin Castro

7. Fernando Tatis Jr., SS, Padres (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $35+
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: late 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Prime Ian Desmond with more walks
Realistic Floor: Post-prime Ian Desmond

Tier 2: Prospects You Want to Take Home to Mom

8. Nick Senzel, 3B, Reds (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 16)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Anthony Rendon
Realistic Floor: Modern-day Evan Longoria

9. Shohei Ohtani, RHP/UT, Angels (Age: 23, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $30-35
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Nine-category contributor; Impact potential in W, K, ERA, WHIP, R, HR, RBI, R
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: An SP1 who could have been so much cooler if he was a full-time hitter too
Realistic Floor: An SP3 who could have been so much cooler if he was an SP1

10. Kyle Tucker, OF, Astros (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 31)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: late 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Don’t you miss prime Hunter Pence?
Realistic Floor: Mitch Haniger with better pedigree

11. Alex Reyes, RHP, Cardinals (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 24)

Potential Earnings: $30-35
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, K, ERA, WHIP
Fantasy Impact ETA: late 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Do you like what Luis Severino just did?
Realistic Floor: Looming over the shoulders of Luke Gregerson/Bud Norris

12. Michael Kopech, RHP, White Sox (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 40)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, K, ERA
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Taller Chris Archer
Realistic Floor: Tyler Glasnow seems a little harsh, but you get the picture

13. Francisco Mejia, C, Indians (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 54)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: The reason Craig continues to draft so many catchers
Realistic Floor: Tyler Flowers, if you believe his 2018 was real

Tier 3: Well Worth the Gamble

14. Lewis Brinson, OF, Marlins (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 17)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Domingo Santana with inverted power/speed
Realistic Floor: Honestly? Probably Keon Broxton

15. Bo Bichette, SS, Blue Jays (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2019
Realistic Ceiling: Brian Dozier with SS eligibility
Realistic Floor: Eugenio Suarez

16. Juan Soto, OF, Nationals (Age: 19, Previous Rank: 56)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2020
Realistic Ceiling: Our top dynasty prospect in 2020
Realistic Floor: Pick any seemingly good hitter we whiffed on … Oswaldo Arcia?

17. Keston Hiura, 2B, Brewers (Age: 21, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2019
Realistic Ceiling: The good Daniel Murphy with a touch more power
Realistic Floor: A .300-hitting outfielder who you wish did more

18. Estevan Florial, OF, Yankees (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: One of the few threats 30/30 in baseball
Realistic Floor: Not a threat to hit .250

19. Luis Robert, OF, White Sox (Age: 20, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Lorenzo Cain
Realistic Floor: No one will care how his last name is pronounced anymore

20. Scott Kingery, 2B, Phillies (Age: 23, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: What Whit Merrifield just did
Realistic Floor: What Cesar Hernandez just did

21. Franklin Barreto, SS, Athletics (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 14)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: 80% of Prime Jean Segura
Realistic Floor: What if Tim Anderson never gets better …

22. Royce Lewis, SS, Twins (Age: 18, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Prime Jean Segura
Realistic Floor: Who Xander Bogaerts has been to this point

23. Forrest Whitley, RHP, Astros (Age: 20, Previous Rank: HM)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, WHIP
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: A consistent top-20 starting pitcher
Realistic Floor: A consistent top-40 starting pitcher

Tier 4: Fast Risers and Steady Climbers

24. Willie Calhoun, Hitter, Rangers (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 76)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Corey Dickerson with a few years of 2B eligibility
Realistic Floor: Only gets ~300 PA a year

25. Mitch Keller, RHP, Pirates (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 63)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP
Fantasy Impact ETA: late 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Michael Fulmer
Realistic Floor: Lance Lynn

26. A.J. Puk, LHP, Athletics (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 59)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in ERA, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Robbie Ray
Realistic Floor: Felipe Rivero

27. Ryan McMahon, 3B/2B/1B, Rockies (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 80)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Jake Lamb
Realistic Floor: An eventual Oakland A’s reclamation project

28. Taylor Trammell, OF, Reds (Age: 20, Previous Rank: HM)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Carl Crawford in a better ballpark
Realistic Floor: Cameron Maybin in any ballpark

29. Brent Honeywell, RHP, Rays (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 45)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Best known for his screwball
Realistic Floor: Only known for his screwball

30. Sixto Sanchez, RHP, Phillies (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: A genuine, bona fide fantasy SP1
Realistic Floor: We may just stop ranking pitchers altogether

31. Walker Buehler, RHP, Dodgers (Age: 23, Previous Rank: HM)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in ERA, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: The right-handed Danny Duffy
Realistic Floor: Chris Devenski

32. Jorge Mateo, SS, Athletics (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 18)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: late 2018
Realistic Ceiling: A younger Jose Reyes without the pop
Realistic Floor: Terrance Gore?

33. Jo Adell, OF, Angels (Age: 18, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $30-35
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Who we want Lewis Brinson to be
Realistic Floor: Who we’re scared Lewis Brinson might be

34. Leody Taveras, OF, Rangers (Age: 19, Previous Rank: 55)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: A bionic A.J. Pollock
Realistic Floor: Brett Gardner in his 30s

35. Ryan Mountcastle, 3B, Orioles (Age: 21, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Kyle Seager with a better average
Realistic Floor: Four corners bench bat/another broken heart for Ben

36. J.P. Crawford, SS, Phillies (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 9)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Asdrubal Cabrera
Realistic Floor: Jordy Mercer

37. Willy Adames, SS, Rays (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 33)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Jhonny Peralta
Realistic Floor: Jordy Mercer

38. Jorge Alfaro, C, Phillies (Age: 24, Previous Rank: 29)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: A top-10 fantasy catcher with 20-plus bombs annually
Realistic Floor: Patience is not always a virtue

39. Jahmai Jones, OF, Angels (Age: 20, Previous Rank: 78)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Manny Margot with a touch more power
Realistic Floor: Cory Spangenberg with a touch more power

40. Alex Verdugo, OF, Dodgers (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 53)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Prime Nick Markakis
Realistic Floor: Errr … the average Nick Markakis?

41. Austin Meadows, OF, Pirates (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 7)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: A consistent 20/20 threat who you pray stays healthy
Realistic Floor: An oft-injured Kole Calhoun

42. MacKenzie Gore, LHP, Padres (Age: 19, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2022
Realistic Ceiling: Apollo 11
Realistic Floor: Apollo 13

43. Triston McKenzie, RHP, Indians (Age: 20, Previous Rank: 85)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in ERA, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: An SP2 who can consistently punch out way more than he weighs
Realistic Floor: A taller Carl Edwards

44. Austin Hays, OF, Orioles (Age: 22, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Adam Jones without the steals
Realistic Floor: Take a Walk, My Ass (I Won’t Take a Walk)

45. Heliot Ramos, OF, Giants (Age: 18, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $30-35
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: The next Eloy Jimenez
Realistic Floor: Hanging out with Sea Ghosts

Tier 5: The Meaty Middle

46. Monte Harrison, OF, Marlins (Age: 22, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: An OF2 who you’re more confident can get to 25 steals than homers
Realistic Floor: Dexter Fowler with 80 percent of the on-base ability

47. Carter Kieboom, SS/3B, Nationals (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Corey Seager, if he never got better (as if he has to)
Realistic Floor: A borderline top-15 third baseman without the power you want

48. Michael Chavis, 3B, Red Sox (Age: 22, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Right-handed Travis Shaw
Realistic Floor: Less athletic Will Middlebrooks

49. Keibert Ruiz, C, Dodgers (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: The next Francisco Mejia
Realistic Floor: Another lesson in avoiding catcher prospects

50. Yusniel Diaz, OF, Dodgers (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 57)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: You’ll primarily think of him as well-rounded
Realistic Floor: You’ll primarily think of him as boring

51. Jesse Winker, OF, Reds (Age: 24, Previous Rank: 48)

Potential Earnings: $10-15
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: David Peralta
Realistic Floor: David Peralta after eating Skyline Chili

52. Anthony Alford, OF, Blue Jays (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 79)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: Whenever he stays healthy
Realistic Ceiling: A speed-based OF3 who’s great in leagues with lots of DL slots
Realistic Floor: Dalton Pompey

53. Alec Hansen, RHP, White Sox (Age: 23, Previous Rank: HM)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: People will finally stop worrying about his draft-season performance
Realistic Floor: The third pitch never comes along, so … reliever 🙁

54. Jesus Sanchez, OF, Rays (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Marcell Ozuna-light
Realistic Floor: Turns out everybody can indeed **** with the Jesus

55. Jason Groome, LHP, Red Sox (Age: 19, Previous Rank: 34)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Our No. 1 pitching prospect in 2020
Realistic Floor: Most pitching prospects

56. Hunter Greene, RHP, Reds (Age: 18, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Our No. 1 pitching prospect in 2020
Realistic Floor: Most pitching prospects

57. Shane Baz, RHP, Pirates (Age: 18, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Our No. 1 pitching prospect in 2020
Realistic Floor: Most pitching prospects

58. Nick Gordon, SS, Twins (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 60)

Potential Earnings: $10-15
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: A fitted beige suit
Realistic Floor: An off-the-rack beige suit

59. Miguel Andujar, 3B, Yankees (Age: 23, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: Eddie Rosario at third base
Realistic Floor: Jesus Montero’s future roommate

60. Franklin Perez, RHP, Tigers (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: The Good Julio Teheran
Realistic Floor: The Bad Julio Teheran

61. Kolby Allard, LHP, Braves (Age: 20, Previous Rank: HM)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Drew Pomeranz
Realistic Floor: Wade Miley

Tier 6: Beauty Is in the Eye of the Beholder

62. Yadier Alvarez, RHP, Dodgers (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 41)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2019
Realistic Ceiling: A healthier Danny Salazar
Realistic Floor: Kenley Jansen’s bag man

63. Jhailyn Ortiz, OF, Phillies (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: A power-based OF2
Realistic Floor: This is the last time he’ll ever be ranked

64. Isan Diaz, 2B/SS, Marlins (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 44)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: 2016 Jonathan Schoop
Realistic Floor: 2014 Jonathan Schoop

65. Ronald Guzman, 1B, Rangers (Age: 23, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $10-15
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: 120% of Brandon Belt
Realistic Floor: 80% of Brandon Belt

66. Chance Sisco, C, Orioles (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 62)

Potential Earnings: $10-15
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Who everyone thinks Austin Barnes is all of a sudden
Realistic Floor: All too familiar with Norfolk traffic

67. Bobby Bradley, 1B, Indians (Age: 21, Previous Rank: 95)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Three-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: A less athletic Eric Thames
Realistic Floor: A less athletic wind turbine

68. Yordan Alvarez, OF/1B, Astros (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2019
Realistic Ceiling: Corey Dickerson
Realistic Floor: Mitch Moreland

69. Luis Urias, 2B/SS, Padres (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $10-15
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Three-category contributor; Impact potential in R, AVG
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2018
Realistic Ceiling: D.J. LeMahieu (outside of Coors)
Realistic Floor: Not as nice as this ranking

70. Austin Riley, 3B, Braves (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Slower Todd Frazier
Realistic Floor: A more athletic Maikel Franco

71. Brendan McKay, LHP/1B, Rays (Age: 22, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Seven-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, RBI, W, ERA
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Brandon Belt and J.A. Happ as one player?
Realistic Floor: Tropicana Field

72. Dustin Fowler, OF, Athletics (Age: 23, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Such a gosh darn well-rounded OF4
Realistic Floor: A platoon outfielder who’s useful in DFS

73. Brett Phillips, OF, Brewers (Age: 23, Previous Rank: 72)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Steven Souza Jr. with less power
Realistic Floor: Jake Marisnick

74. Magneuris Sierra, OF, Marlins (Age: 21, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Three-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Remember when Ben Revere was good?
Realistic Floor: Modern day Ben Revere

75. Jake Burger, 3B, White Sox (Age: 21, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Rightful King of the 30-Homer Beefy Boys
Realistic Floor:

Tier 7: There’s Absolutely No Theme Here

76. Luis Garcia, SS, Nationals (Age: 17, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2021
Realistic Ceiling: We had him ranked in the 50s before Craig yelled at us …
Realistic Floor: Even this ranking is gonna look way too aggressive

77. Wander Javier, SS, Twins (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2021
Realistic Ceiling: A genuine top-5 fantasy shortstop
Realistic Floor: Not worth the running jokes

78. Adrian Morejon, LHP, Padres (Age: 19, Previous Rank: HM)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Gio Gonzalez
Realistic Floor: Run-of-the-mill backend lefty

79. Jack Flaherty, RHP, Cardinals (Age: 22, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $10-15
Risk Factor: Low
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in ERA
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: He’s a Cardinal, so the best pitcher in baseball?
Realistic Floor: Mike Leake

80. Dylan Cease, RHP, White Sox (Age: 22, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in ERA, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: late 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Lance McCullers Jr.
Realistic Floor: A top-10ish closer

81. Kyle Wright, RHP, Braves (Age: 22, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2019
Realistic Ceiling: Michael Wacha
Realistic Floor: More like Kyle Wrong. Do you get it?

82. Kyle Lewis, OF, Mariners (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 49)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: A slower version of the five-tool guy we thought he was coming out of college
Realistic Floor: A worse leg-related comeback story than Skyscraper (also, a Mariners prospect)

83. Alex Jackson, C, Braves (Age: 22, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Off-peak Brian McCann
Realistic Floor: Off-peak Mike Zunino

84. Garrett Hampson, 2B/SS, Rockies (Age: 23, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Pre-breakout Elvis Andrus
Realistic Floor: Jose Peraza

85. Seuly Matias, OF, Royals (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2021
Realistic Ceiling: The next next Eloy Jimenez
Realistic Floor: A PECOTA Royals projection

86. Luiz Gohara, LHP, Braves (Age: 21, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: A K-heavy SP4 who flashes more
Realistic Floor: If you don’t have anything nice to say…

87. Michel Baez, RHP, Padres (Age: 22, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, WHIP
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: He’s 70 spots too low here
Realistic Floor: He’s 70 spots too high

88. Sandy Alcantara, RHP, Marlins (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 64)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Who Trevor Bauer is (not who he was supposed to be)
Realistic Floor: A “closer in waiting” for like six years

89. Franklyn Kilome, RHP, Phillies (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 66)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2019
Realistic Ceiling: Ervin Santana
Realistic Floor: A solid set-up man

Tier 8: Lottery Tickets, More 2018 Dudes or Guys We Just Like

90. Akil Baddoo, OF, Twins (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2021
Realistic Ceiling: Brett Gardner
Realistic Floor: A reminder to not scout the stat line

91. Seth Romero, LHP, Nationals (Age: 21, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: High-K starter
Realistic Floor: High Times subscriber

92. Jesus Luzardo, LHP, Athletics (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: A borderline SP1 with many Ks
Realistic Floor: A carpenter

93. Tyler O’Neill, OF, Cardinals (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 46)

Potential Earnings: $15-20
Risk Factor: Medium
Fantasy Overview: Three-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2018
Realistic Ceiling: Adam Duvall
Realistic Floor: We should’f put Harrison Bader here instead

94. Esteury Ruiz, 2B, Padres (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, HR, RBI, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Ben is such a pessimist
Realistic Floor: Bret and Craig are insane

95. Cristian Pache, OF, Braves (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Ender Inciarte
Realistic Floor: A fourth outfielder

96. Brandon Marsh, OF, Angels (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in HR, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2021
Realistic Ceiling: Where we have Jesus Sanchez ranked this time next year
Realistic Floor: “We Hardly Knew Ye” on next year’s Get to Know OF column

97. Khalil Lee, OF, Royals (Age: 19, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: What Michael Taylor just did
Realistic Floor: I’m not sure how Keon Broxton became the archetype for these guys, but …

98. Jeren Kendall, OF, Dodgers (Age: 22, Previous Rank: N/A)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Five-category contributor; Impact potential in R, SB
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: Who we wanted Corey Ray to be
Realistic Floor: Corey Ray

99. Colton Welker, 3B, Rockies (Age: 20, Previous Rank: NR)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in AVG, R, RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: 2020
Realistic Ceiling: D.J. LeMahieu with double the power
Realistic Floor: A good average at third with doubles power

100. Anderson Espinoza, RHP, Padres (Age: 20, Previous Rank: 35)

Potential Earnings: $25-30
Risk Factor: Extreme
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in W, ERA, WHIP, K
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2021
Realistic Ceiling: He was getting Pedro comps when healthy …
Realistic Floor: The answer to a Drew Pomeranz trivia question

101. Lucas Erceg, 3B, Brewers (Age: 22, Previous Rank: 97)

Potential Earnings: $20-25
Risk Factor: High
Fantasy Overview: Four-category contributor; Impact potential in RBI
Fantasy Impact ETA: mid-2019
Realistic Ceiling: Matt Carpenter
Realistic Floor: Colin Moran (aka Fancy Dog Brian Anderson)

Honorable Mention: Albert Abreu, RHP, NYY; Luis Almanzar, SS, SD; Yasel Antuna, SS, WAS; Zack Collins, C, CHW; Erick Fedde, RHP, WAS; Kevin Maitan, SS/3B, LAA; Mike Matuella, RHP, TEX; Adonis Medina, RHP, PHI; Freudis Nova, SS, HOU; Jorge Ona, OF, SD; Nick Pratto, 1B, KC; Cal Quantrill, RHP, SD; Blake Rutherford, OF, CHW; Justus Sheffield, LHP, NYY; Jose Siri, OF, CIN; Mike Soroka, RHP, ATL; Bubba Thompson, OF, TEX; Joey Wentz, LHP, ATL

Dan Vogelbach Mention: Dan Vogelbach, 1B, SEA