Bobby Witt Jr. rises to No. 1 in fantasy baseball re-draft rankings

Bobby Witt Jr. has surged to the top of fantasy baseball re-draft rankings for the second half of the 2026 season. The Kansas City Royals shortstop, despite a modest home run total, leads all players with his combination of speed, batting average, and all-around excellence.

Why Witt Jr. is now the top pick

Witt Jr. is on pace for nearly 50 stolen bases this season, a rarity in modern baseball. His .300 batting average and ability to contribute across multiple categories make him a safe bet for fantasy managers. While his power numbers (20-25 homers) may not match some of his peers, his consistency and speed give him an edge.

How the rankings have shifted

The midseason re-draft sees significant changes from preseason expectations. Shohei Ohtani, despite his two-way brilliance, drops to No. 2 due to a slight dip in hitting performance. Juan Soto remains a top option at No. 3, while young stars like James Wood and Pete Crow-Armstrong have surged into the top 10.

What this means for the Royals

Witt Jr.'s rise reflects his growing importance to the Royals' lineup. Even with Kansas City's offensive struggles, his individual performance stands out. If he can maintain this pace, he could finish the season as one of the most valuable players in fantasy baseball.

Who else is climbing?

Several young players have made big jumps in the rankings. James Wood, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Jacob Misiorowski are now top-10 picks for the second half. Meanwhile, established stars like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Fernando Tatis Jr. will need strong finishes to reclaim their elite status.