2290 - Shortstop Preview

Fantasy Baseball Live – January 11, 2026 – 3:00pmMicrosoft TeamsPodcastSunday, January 11, 20263:00 PM - 4:30 PMhttps://teams.live.com/meet/9360960458392?p=wO31KjtHU9wOTPVZVJSegment 1 – News and Notes1.The Cubs trade for Edward Cabrera, sending OF Owen Caissie, SS/2B Christian Hernandez, and 2B/3B Edgardo De Leona.I wrote a long note to our Patreon members after the trade was finalized, so I won’t reiterate my views. But, what is your take?i.Does Eddie Cabrera go up or down in your rankings or stay the same?ii.I’m assuming Caissie goes up, as he should get a chance to play. What’s your take?2.The Cubs also make news, signing Alex Bregman to a long 5-year deal. This one has a lot of ramifications, as it was reported that the Red Sox really wanted to re-sign him.a.What happens to Matt Shaw? It’s been widely reported, and I’ve heard from my contact that the Cubs are not happy with Shaw. I’ve heard he’s difficult to work with, and the Cubs were not happy when he took a day off in September to attend the Charlie Kirk memorial. b.Who plays third for the Red Sox? Do they double down on signing Bo Bichette or go with some combination of Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell3.The Rockies acquire Jake McCarthy on Saturday for RHP Josh Grosza.I know it’s the Rockies, but does McCarthy get a jump in value? RosterResource lists him as the starting right fielder.b.It’s a bit of a bummer for Dynasty League owners waiting for Zac Veen and Sterlin Thompason to get a shot. It could even gum up the works for Cole Carrigg. Your thoughts?c.I saw Josh Grosz pitch with the Yankees last season in High-A. Fastball sat 93 to 94 MPH and was pretty flat with average secondaries. He does get a new lease with the Diamondbacks, but he’s not someone I’d be running out to grab in Dynasty Leagues.4.My draft has slowed to a crawl. I’ll share some of my mid-round picks.Segment 2 – Shortstop Rankings for the 2026 Season1.How are you approaching this position for your upcoming drafts?2.We will break down the top 15 to 20 in detail. Then, go through 20 to 30 in less detail. We will end by jumping around the remaining ranked players.3.Which player not in the Top 10 has a chance to emerge there next season?4.Which Top 10 player will not be there next season?5.Give me a couple of sleepers6.Give me one, maybe two guys you are just going to avoid drafting?