In the dynamic world of dynasty baseball, the first two months of the season have already unveiled some intriguing risers and fallers. As we delve into May's performances, it's evident that the landscape is shifting, with players either climbing the ranks or facing challenges that could impact their long-term prospects. Let's explore the key players who are making waves and those who are facing hurdles, offering a glimpse into the ever-evolving nature of the sport.
The Ascending Stars
Ethan Salas: A Catcher's Breakout
Ethan Salas, a premier international signing in 2023, is making a name for himself as a dynamic catcher. At just 19 years old, Salas is already showcasing a refined approach at the plate, with a contact rate of 86.2% and a 138 wRC+ in May. His switch-hitting ability, combined with a 41% pull rate and a 37.7% opposite-field rate, makes him a versatile threat. The fact that Salas already possesses a major league-caliber defensive foundation adds to his allure. If his offensive production continues, a promotion to San Diego is a distinct possibility, making him a top prospect for dynasty managers.
Wei-In Lin: A Rising Right-Hander
Wei-In Lin, signed internationally in 2024, is quickly becoming one of the most intriguing young arms in the minor leagues. With a 2.03 ERA and 51 strikeouts in 44 innings, Lin has demonstrated both durability and advanced pitch ability. His four-pitch mix, highlighted by a mid-90s fastball and a curveball with movement, keeps hitters off balance. Lin's command, with a 7.5% walk rate, is especially encouraging for a 20-year-old starter. As he continues to develop, Lin is on track to become a highly appealing pitching prospect for dynasty managers, with a promotion to Triple-A in the summer a distinct possibility.
Edwin Arroyo: A Switch-Hitting Shortstop
Edwin Arroyo, acquired by the Cincinnati Reds in the Luis Castillo trade, is quickly re-establishing himself as a premier middle infield prospect. With a .348/.408/.604 slash line and 10 home runs in 46 games, Arroyo is producing at a level that exceeds expectations. His switch-hitting ability, combined with a 90.3 MPH average exit velocity and a 31.2% line-drive rate, makes him a versatile threat. At 22 years old, Arroyo is proving that there may be more offensive upside in his profile than previously projected. If he continues producing at this level, a major league debut later this summer is a distinct possibility, making him a top prospect for dynasty managers.
Karson Milbrandt: A Rising Arm
Karson Milbrandt, a third-round selection in the 2022 MLB Draft, is quickly emerging as one of the fastest-rising pitching prospects in dynasty baseball. With a fastball that can reach the upper 90s and a sweeper that generates swing and miss, Milbrandt has dominated Double-A competition. His May performance, with a 0.38 ERA and 40 strikeouts in 24 innings, was particularly eye-opening. The improved control, with a walk rate of 8.7%, is the key development for dynasty managers to monitor. At 22 years old, Milbrandt is rapidly climbing dynasty prospect rankings and should be firmly on the radar in all formats.
The Descending Stars
Brody Hopkins: Struggles with Command
Brody Hopkins, a true four-pitch pitcher with a fastball that can reach triple digits, is facing command struggles. Despite a 2.35 ERA in May, Hopkins walked 17 batters in 15 innings, reflecting an imbalance in his delivery. The concern for dynasty managers is not the ceiling but the volatility in getting there. Hopkins still possesses the type of repertoire that could profile as a top-of-the-rotation starter if the command comes along, but for now, his lack of consistent strikes is suppressing both his results and strikeout upside.
Bryce Rainer: A Developmental Reset
Bryce Rainer, an 11th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, has struggled to find consistency across two levels this season. With a .226 batting average and a .688 OPS, Rainer is dealing with timing and contact issues. His batted ball quality, with a 19.7% line-drive rate, is the lowest mark of his professional career, suggesting he is not consistently squaring up pitches. While the raw tools remain evident, Rainer is in a developmental reset phase, and the next few months will be crucial for him to reestablish momentum.
Jaxon Wiggins: Inconsistent Command
Jaxon Wiggins, a right-hander with a fastball that sits in the upper 90s, has faced inconsistency in command and uneven production. His stock has cooled slightly in dynasty circles due to these challenges. Wiggins still possesses the type of raw arsenal that keeps evaluators intrigued, but the results in 2026 have been more volatile. If he can regain consistency in the zone, Wiggins has the upside to rebound quickly in dynasty value, but for now, he belongs in the fallers category as he works through growing pains at the upper levels.
As we move into the next month, the risers and fallers could shift quickly based on key adjustments and small sample swings. The risers are showing improved strike quality and consistent production against advanced pitching, while the fallers are dealing with volatility and need refinement. The key question for both groups is whether recent trends stabilize, as the landscape of dynasty baseball is ever-changing and full of surprises.
