This blog post takes a close look at the MLB offseason player movement and what it might mean for fantasy baseball in 2026. We’re drawing from the latest analysis by fantasy experts Tristan H. Cockcroft and Eric Karabell, breaking down high-profile free agents, major trades, and key re-signings that could totally shake up draft boards and fantasy strategies.
Josh Naylor gets special attention here. His speed and unique skill set make him one of next season’s most intriguing fantasy first base options.
Tracking the MLB Offseason for Fantasy Rewards
The MLB offseason always brings a flurry of activity. This year, player movement kicked off early on November 6, 2025, and it’s only going to pick up steam during the Winter Meetings in Orlando from December 7 to 10.
With elite talent hitting the free-agent market and teams jockeying for a shot at the 2026 championship, fantasy players are glued to the news. Any move could radically change player values.
Noteworthy Free Agent Names
This winter’s free agent class is loaded with proven stars. Some of the headline names who might land with new teams:
- J.T. Realmuto – Still one of the game’s most complete catchers.
- Kyle Schwarber – Power-hitting outfielder/DH who can change a lineup instantly.
- Pete Alonso – Elite home run threat and RBI machine at first base.
- Bo Bichette – Dynamic shortstop with strong offensive upside.
- Alex Bregman – Proven bat with positional versatility.
- Framber Valdez – Reliable left-handed rotation anchor.
- Kenley Jansen – Veteran closer with a track record of saves.
Cockcroft and Karabell will focus their breakdowns on moves that actually matter for fantasy baseball. Not every transaction is worth your time, right?
Josh Naylor: A Quietly Elite Fantasy Asset
One of the biggest developments early in the offseason: Josh Naylor’s five-year re-signing with the Seattle Mariners. Naylor, long known for his raw power, really surprised fantasy managers in 2025 with a big jump in stolen bases.
He stole 30 bases overall, including a wild 19 after getting traded to Seattle midseason. That’s not something you see every day from a first baseman.
Why Speed Changes Everything
Seattle’s manager, Dan Wilson, loves aggressive baserunning, and Naylor thrived under that approach. His knack for picking the right moments to run boosted his fantasy impact and shot him into the top-20 fantasy performers in 2025.
That’s pretty impressive for his position. Safeco Field’s dimensions might cut into Naylor’s home run totals a bit, but his speed more than makes up for it.
In roto leagues, stolen bases are still a premium. Having a first baseman who can chip in there? That’s a rare edge.
Projected Value Heading into 2026
Cockcroft and Karabell project Naylor’s 2026 fantasy value as comparable to Freddie Freeman, who’s been a top hitter for years. That’s not a throwaway comparison—it says a lot about Naylor’s all-around game.
He brings solid batting averages, run production, and steals to the table. That’s a pretty special fantasy profile.
The Fantasy Draft Implication
This re-signing takes away any guesswork about Naylor’s situation, so fantasy managers know what they’re getting at draft time. In points leagues, he racks up value with his steady on-base skills.
In category leagues, his stolen bases are a bonus. If you miss out on Freeman early, Naylor could be a near-equivalent option a bit later in the draft.
Winter Meetings: The Domino Effect
With the Winter Meetings coming up, expect some dominoes to fall. Signings and trades can shake up batting orders, bullpen roles, and rotation spots.
All of that can swing fantasy stats in a big way. It’s a time to stay alert and maybe even tweak your draft plans on the fly.
Staying Ahead in Fantasy Preparation
Keeping tabs on these developments is crucial for fantasy success. Player value can swing overnight just because of team context.
Maybe it’s a slugger landing in a hitter-friendly park. Or a pitcher joining a club with elite defense—those details really start to matter when you’re chasing 2026 titles.
Cockcroft and Karabell keep delivering targeted insight. Fantasy managers can feel confident they’re getting analysis that actually matters, not just noise from random, inconsequential moves.
Naylor’s re-signing stands out as a move with immediate fantasy relevance. His rare speed-power combo at first base could change how managers approach drafting in 2026, especially with the rest of the player market still shifting in Orlando this December.
Here is the source article for this story: Fantasy baseball: Hot stove analysis of offseason trades and free agent signings
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