Texas Rangers starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi (shoulder, hernia) does not expect to have any limitations ahead of spring training next month, he said during an appearance on the SportsDay Rangers podcast. Eovaldi suffered a season-ending rotator cuff strain last August, followed by a sports hernia that required surgery in October. However, it sounds like he's nearing full health, and not only will he be a full-go for spring training, but he should be cleared to make the Opening Day rotation. "I've been throwing multiple bullpens, and my arm feels great, body feels great, and I'm ready for the season to get going," he said. That's great news for the Rangers and fantasy baseball managers. Eovaldi pitched to a stellar 1.73 ERA last year, and his 2.80 FIP was also quite impressive despite suggesting he experienced some good luck. He should return to his terrific form this year, looking to maintain his phenomenal 8.93 K/9, 1.45 BB/9, and 50.3% ground ball rate from 2025. He currently projects as the No. 2 starter in an exciting rotation that also features Jacob deGrom and MacKenzie Gore. As it stands, Eovaldi ranks as the #42 starting pitcher in RotoBaller's latest fantasy baseball draft rankings for 2026.

New York Yankees right-handed pitching prospect Carlos Lagrange is an emerging arm in their system and could debut in the majors in 2026. The 22-year-old spent the 2025 campaign with High-A and Double-A, logging 120 total innings. With High-A, the right-hander posted a 4.10 ERA with a 1.03 WHIP across 41 2/3 innings of work. During this stint, Lagrange struck out 64 batters while allowing just 12 free passes. During his first look at Double-A, Lagrange posted an impressive 3.22 ERA with a slightly higher 1.29 WHIP. He struck out 104 batters through 78 1/3 innings but served up a much higher 50 walks. While Lagrange won't be in a position to break camp with the MLB roster, he could begin the 2026 season with Triple-A, opening the door for a first-half MLB debut.

Minnesota Twins outfield prospect Emmanuel Rodriguez is a name to closely monitor during spring training as he could crack the Opening Day roster. According to MLB.com, Rodriguez is viewed as the No. 69 overall-ranked prospect in the sport and the No. 4-ranked in the Minnesota system. Rodriguez has battled numerous injuries during his minor league career, but has flashed immense upside when on the field. Last summer, the 22-year-old appeared in only 65 games in the minor leagues. He spent most of the year with Triple-A St. Paul (52 games), where he held a .258/.429/.423 line with seven doubles, six home runs, and nine stolen bases. While Byron Buxton is slated to cover center field, the corner outfield positions could be open for Rodriguez to claim. Managers in deeper five-outfielder leagues should keep a close eye on Rodriguez during spring training.

Baltimore Orioles outfield prospect Enrique Bradfield Jr. is nearing his eventual promotion to join the MLB roster. Bradfield is currently considered the No. 4-ranked prospect in the Orioles system on MLB.com. Bradfield spent most of his 2025 season with Double-A Chesapeake, where he posted a .269/.393/.386 line. While he showed minimal power potential as he hit only two long balls, he flashed elite speed, swiping 26 bags. The former 17th overall pick from the 2023 MLB Draft would then finish his 2026 season with Triple-A Norfolk, where he posted a much lower .179/.226/.286 line with only three extra-base hits across a 15-game stint. However, he would continue to show high-end speed, stealing six bags. While Bradfield won't compete for a spot on the MLB roster given Baltimore's current outfield depth, he is a name to monitor in the first half, as he may be the first name called following an injury.