Top 20 Dynasty Fantasy Baseball Shortstop Prospects

The future of the shortstop position looks exceptionally bright, with an exciting wave of young talent poised to redefine its fantasy ceiling. Once viewed primarily as a position built around defense, contact, and speed, shortstop is rapidly evolving into a premium source of five-category production, as you’ll see in the Top 20 fantasy baseball shortstop prospects profiled ahead.

Today’s emerging prospects are bringing an impressive combination of advanced hitting ability, developing power, athleticism, and stolen-base potential.

Top 20 Dynasty Fantasy Baseball Shortstop Prospects

What makes this group particularly intriguing is the depth of offensive upside throughout the rankings. The next generation of shortstops features legitimate 25–30 home run potential, impressive batting-average ceilings, and the speed to make a significant impact on the basepaths. While some prospects may eventually transition to other infield positions, the overall offensive talent remains incredibly promising.

For dynasty baseball managers, the message is clear: the future of the shortstop position is loaded with opportunity. With a steady pipeline of potential impact bats approaching the majors and another wave of high-ceiling talent developing in the lower minors, this premium position should remain one of the most exciting and valuable areas to invest in for years to come.

So, let’s begin with our countdown of the top 20 Shortstop prospects.

#20 – Aidan Miller | Philadelphia Phillies

Age: 22 | SS | Double-A | ETA: 2027

Miller remains an intriguing dynasty investment thanks to his combination of physical strength, offensive instincts, and the potential to become a productive middle-of-the-order hitter. His profile offers more offensive punch than the typical middle-infield prospect.

Philadelphia selected Miller with the 27th overall pick in the first round of the 2023 MLB Draft, betting on his advanced offensive tools and impressive high school pedigree.

At the plate, Miller features quick hands, strong wrists, and an aggressive swing capable of producing hard contact to all fields. His power should become an increasingly important part of his fantasy profile as he matures.

His ability to contribute stolen bases adds another dimension, although speed is unlikely to be his primary fantasy weapon. Continued improvement against advanced pitching will determine whether he becomes a high-average hitter or a more power-dependent offensive contributor.

For dynasty managers, Miller offers an appealing blend of 20-plus home run potential, respectable batting averages, and double-digit stolen bases. His offensive upside makes him worth holding despite the developmental uncertainty surrounding young hitters.

#19 – Luis Hernandez | San Francisco Giants

Age: 18 | SS/3B | Single-A | ETA: 2030

Hernandez is one of the most intriguing young international talents in baseball, possessing an extraordinary combination of physical projection, explosive bat speed, and advanced offensive instincts. His potential to develop into a dynamic five-category fantasy contributor makes him an especially exciting long-term investment.

San Francisco signed Hernandez out of Venezuela in January 2026 after he emerged as the top-ranked international prospect in his signing class. His impressive offensive tools and exceptional athleticism made him one of the most coveted young players on the international market.

At the plate, Hernandez generates tremendous bat speed and shows the ability to drive baseballs with authority despite his youth. His advanced feel for hitting and developing strength create the possibility of becoming a high-average hitter with significant home run production.

His above-average speed provides another exciting element, giving him the potential to become a valuable stolen-base contributor. As his body matures, the combination of power, athleticism, and offensive instincts could develop into an exceptionally productive fantasy profile.

For dynasty managers, Hernandez represents a high-risk, high-reward investment with a ceiling approaching 30 home runs and 30 stolen bases. His considerable developmental timeline makes patience essential, but his long-term upside gives him the potential to become one of fantasy baseball’s most exciting young stars.

#18 – Caleb Bonemer | Chicago White Sox

Age: 20 | SS/3B | Double-A | ETA: 2028

Bonemer is an exciting young infielder whose combination of bat speed, physical projection, and developing power makes him an appealing dynasty target. His offensive ceiling is considerably higher than his current prospect recognition might suggest.

The White Sox selected Bonemer in the second round of the 2024 MLB Draft out of Okemos High School in Michigan, identifying him as a potential impact bat with significant room for development.

His swing produces impressive bat speed, allowing him to drive baseballs with authority while showing the ability to make adjustments against different pitch types. As his approach matures, more of that hard contact could translate into home runs.

Bonemer also possesses enough athleticism to contribute occasional stolen bases, although his long-term fantasy value will likely be driven by batting average and power production. His ultimate defensive home could influence his positional eligibility.

Dynasty managers willing to exercise patience could eventually be rewarded with a productive infielder capable of 20–25 home runs and solid offensive ratios. He represents the type of ascending prospect worth targeting before a major breakout season.

#17 – Arjun Nimmala | Los Angeles Angels

Age: 21 | SS | Double-A | ETA: 2027

Nimmala offers one of the more intriguing power profiles among young shortstop prospects. His combination of bat speed, natural loft, and physical projection creates the possibility of significant home run production from a premium fantasy position.

Originally selected by Toronto with the 20th overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, Nimmala joined the Angels in August 2026 as the centerpiece of the trade that sent pitcher José Soriano to the Blue Jays.

His offensive game revolves around generating authoritative contact and driving the ball into the gaps and beyond the fences. The power potential is exciting, although refining his approach against advanced breaking pitches remains important.

Nimmala possesses enough athleticism to provide some stolen bases, but his long-term value will come primarily from his bat. Improving contact consistency will be essential to maximizing his offensive ceiling.

In dynasty formats, Nimmala carries the upside of a 25–30 home run shortstop with useful run production. Managers should embrace some batting-average volatility in exchange for his considerable power potential.

#16 – Emil Morales | Los Angeles Dodgers

Age: 20 | SS/3B | High-A | ETA: 2028

Morales is a fascinating dynasty prospect whose combination of offensive polish, impressive size, and developing power gives him the potential to become a major fantasy asset. His bat offers a particularly exciting foundation for future production.

The Dodgers signed Morales out of the Dominican Republic during the January 2024 international signing period, adding another high-ceiling offensive talent to their prospect-rich organization.

Morales generates impressive bat speed and shows the ability to punish mistakes with authority. His developing plate discipline and willingness to use the entire field could eventually help him become a well-rounded offensive contributor.

While Morales possesses adequate athleticism, stolen bases are unlikely to define his fantasy profile. Instead, his long-term appeal centers on the possibility of strong batting averages, substantial power, and consistent run production.

Dynasty managers should view Morales as a potential 25–30 home run infielder with the offensive upside to become a valuable fantasy starter. His development timeline requires patience, but his bat could make that investment worthwhile.

#15 – JoJo Parker | Toronto Blue Jays

Age: 20 | SS/3B | High-A | ETA: 2029

Parker brings an appealing blend of offensive instincts, physical projection, and emerging power to Toronto’s farm system. His advanced hitting foundation gives dynasty managers plenty of reasons to dream about his long-term fantasy ceiling.

Toronto selected Parker with the eighth overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft out of Purvis High School in Mississippi, investing heavily in his ability to develop into an impact offensive player.

His left-handed swing combines good barrel awareness with the ability to drive pitches into the gaps. As Parker continues to add strength, those extra-base hits could increasingly turn into home runs.

Although Parker has enough athleticism to contribute occasionally on the bases, he is unlikely to become a major stolen-base threat. A future move to third base is possible, making his offensive development particularly important.

For dynasty managers, Parker projects as a potential 20–25 home run hitter with an attractive batting-average foundation. His long-term ceiling is exciting, especially in formats that reward on-base ability.

#14 – Ethan Holliday | Colorado Rockies

Age: 19 | SS | Single-A | ETA: 2029

Holliday possesses one of the most enticing power ceilings among teenage prospects, combining impressive physical strength with a smooth left-handed swing. His future home environment in Colorado only increases his appeal to dynasty managers.

The Rockies selected Holliday fourth overall in the 2025 MLB Draft out of Stillwater High School in Oklahoma. The younger brother of Jackson Holliday and son of former MLB star Matt Holliday arrived with tremendous expectations and exceptional baseball bloodlines.

Holliday generates outstanding leverage and can drive the baseball with authority to all fields. His raw power offers legitimate 30-plus home run upside, although refining his contact consistency against professional pitching remains essential.

Speed will not be a significant component of his fantasy production, and a move from shortstop to third base appears possible as he matures. Fortunately, his offensive ceiling could comfortably support a corner-infield role.

For dynasty managers, Holliday represents a high-upside investment with the potential to become a middle-of-the-order fantasy force. A future combination of 30–35 home runs and strong run production would make him especially valuable in Colorado.

#13 – Bryce Rainer | Detroit Tigers

Age: 21 | SS | High-A | ETA: 2028

Rainer is an exceptionally talented young shortstop with the physical tools to develop into a dynamic fantasy contributor. His combination of bat speed, athleticism, and power projection gives him one of the more intriguing ceilings in Detroit’s farm system.

The Tigers selected Rainer with the 11th overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft out of Harvard-Westlake High School in California, recognizing his potential to become an impact player on both sides of the baseball.

His left-handed swing generates impressive exit velocities, and his natural strength provides the foundation for substantial future home run production. Improving pitch recognition and maintaining consistent contact will be critical steps in his development.

Rainer’s athleticism also gives him the potential to contribute stolen bases, although his fantasy profile will likely lean more toward power than speed. His defensive ability provides a realistic opportunity to remain at shortstop.

In dynasty leagues, Rainer offers the ceiling of a 25–30 home run infielder with double-digit stolen bases. His combination of tools and positional value makes him an attractive long-term target for patient managers.

#12 – Kaelen Culpepper | Minnesota Twins

Age: 23 | SS/3B | Triple-A | ETA: Made Debut in 2026

Culpepper has developed into an exciting dynasty prospect thanks to his advanced offensive approach, impressive bat speed, and ability to produce hard contact. His well-rounded skill set gives him a realistic path toward becoming a productive fantasy infielder.

Minnesota selected Culpepper with the 21st overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft out of Kansas State University, targeting his combination of polished hitting mechanics and intriguing offensive upside.

At the plate, Culpepper demonstrates strong hand-eye coordination and the ability to drive pitches throughout the strike zone. His developing power could eventually translate into consistent 20-plus home run production.

Culpepper also possesses enough athleticism to contribute useful stolen bases, giving him an attractive combination of offensive tools. Whether he ultimately settles at shortstop or third base, his bat should remain his primary fantasy asset.

Dynasty managers should appreciate Culpepper’s balanced offensive profile and relatively approachable development timeline. A future season featuring 20–25 home runs, 10–15 stolen bases, and a respectable batting average is within his range of outcomes.

#11 – Luis Peña | Milwaukee Brewers

Age: 19 | 2B/SS | Double-A | ETA: 2028

Peña has quickly established himself as one of Milwaukee’s most exciting young offensive prospects, combining exceptional contact skills with impressive speed. His ability to impact multiple fantasy categories makes him particularly appealing in dynasty formats.

The Brewers signed Peña out of the Dominican Republic during the January 2024 international signing period, adding another talented young infielder to their increasingly impressive player-development pipeline.

His offensive game revolves around quick hands, outstanding bat control, and the ability to consistently put the baseball in play. While his present power is limited, additional strength could eventually produce respectable home run totals.

Peña’s speed is a major fantasy weapon, providing the potential for significant stolen-base production. His ability to reach base consistently should create plenty of opportunities to turn that athleticism into valuable fantasy statistics.

For dynasty managers, Peña offers an exciting projection built around strong batting averages, 30-plus stolen bases, and developing power. Even without elite home run production, his combination of contact and speed could make him a valuable fantasy middle infielder.

#10 – Angel Genao | Cleveland Guardians

Age: 22 | SS/2B | Double-A | ETA: Made MLB Debut

Genao is a polished switch-hitting infielder whose advanced bat-to-ball skills give him a strong foundation for future fantasy success. His offensive approach emphasizes consistent contact, making him especially interesting for managers seeking batting-average stability.

Cleveland signed Genao out of the Dominican Republic during the January 2021 international signing period, identifying his advanced baseball instincts and impressive offensive fundamentals at a young age.

At the plate, Genao uses a compact swing and strong barrel control to produce line drives throughout the field. Although he does not possess overwhelming raw power, continued physical development could allow him to reach double-digit home run totals.

His speed provides some stolen-base upside, although he is more likely to contribute moderate totals than become an elite base stealer. His defensive versatility should help create opportunities for a future major league role.

For dynasty managers, Genao profiles as a potential .280-plus hitter with 10–15 home runs and useful stolen-base production. His ceiling may be lower than some of the more explosive prospects on this list, but his contact ability provides an appealing foundation.

#9 – George Lombard Jr. | New York Yankees

Age: 21 | SS | Triple-A | ETA: Made his MLB Debut in 2026

Lombard is a dynamic young infielder whose combination of athleticism, defensive excellence, and developing offensive tools creates an intriguing dynasty profile. Although he played for the Yankees in the postseason, I still consider him a dynasty prospect based on his late call-up in 2026. His ability to impact multiple categories gives him a chance to become a valuable fantasy contributor.

The Yankees selected Lombard with the 26th overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft out of Gulliver Preparatory School in Florida, investing in his impressive physical tools and long-term offensive projection.

At the plate, Lombard displays improving swing mechanics, solid bat speed, and a patient offensive approach. His developing strength offers the possibility of additional home run production, although consistency against advanced pitching remains important.

His speed and baserunning instincts provide legitimate stolen-base upside, potentially making him more valuable in traditional five-category leagues. His outstanding defensive ability should also help him earn consistent major league playing time.

For dynasty managers, Lombard projects as a potential 15–20 home run hitter with 20-plus stolen bases and useful on-base production. His combination of positional value and athleticism makes him a particularly appealing long-term investment.

#8 – Grady Emerson | Tampa Bay Rays

Age: 18 | SS | Single-A | ETA: 2029

Emerson enters professional baseball with an exciting combination of advanced hitting ability, impressive athleticism, and tremendous offensive upside. His polished left-handed swing gives him the foundation to develop into one of fantasy baseball’s premier young shortstops.

Tampa Bay selected Emerson with the second overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft out of Fort Worth Christian School in Texas, securing one of the most talented high school hitters in his draft class.

Emerson’s offensive strengths begin with his excellent barrel control and ability to recognize pitches early. His smooth swing produces consistent hard contact, while additional physical maturity could eventually unlock substantial home run power.

His athleticism provides another important fantasy dimension, as he possesses the speed and instincts to contribute stolen bases. The combination of contact ability, emerging power, and baserunning potential gives him an attractive five-category foundation.

Dynasty managers should view Emerson as a premium long-term investment with the potential to deliver 20–25 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and strong batting averages. His ceiling is especially exciting given how advanced his offensive skills are for his age.

#7 – Roch Cholowsky | Chicago White Sox

Age: 21 | SS | High-A | ETA: 2028

Cholowsky is an exceptionally polished shortstop prospect whose combination of offensive production, defensive excellence, and advanced baseball instincts gives him a strong chance to become an impact major leaguer. His mature skill set makes him particularly attractive in dynasty formats.

Chicago selected Cholowsky with the first overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft following an outstanding collegiate career at UCLA. His combination of power, offensive consistency, and elite defensive ability made him one of the most highly regarded college shortstops in recent draft history.

At the plate, Cholowsky combines impressive bat speed with a disciplined approach and the ability to drive the baseball to all fields. His advanced hitting mechanics create a strong foundation for both batting average and home run production.

Although he is not expected to become an elite stolen-base contributor, Cholowsky possesses enough athleticism to add occasional steals. His defensive excellence should allow his bat to develop without significant concerns about his long-term position.

For dynasty managers, Cholowsky offers the upside of a 25–30 home run shortstop with strong run production and a quality batting average. His combination of polish and offensive ceiling makes him one of the more appealing prospects for managers balancing upside with developmental risk.

#6 – Josuar Gonzalez | San Francisco Giants

Age: 19 | SS/2B | Single-A | ETA: 2029

Gonzalez is one of the most exciting young international prospects in baseball, possessing an electric combination of athleticism, bat speed, and advanced offensive instincts. His potential to contribute across several fantasy categories makes him an especially appealing dynasty investment.

The Giants signed Gonzalez out of the Dominican Republic in January 2025 for approximately $3 million, landing one of the most highly regarded international talents in his signing class.

As a switch-hitter, Gonzalez features quick hands, excellent coordination, and the ability to consistently find the barrel. His present offensive game emphasizes contact, but additional strength could eventually produce meaningful home run totals.

His standout speed represents a particularly valuable fantasy weapon, creating the possibility of 30–40 stolen bases during his prime. Combined with his advanced defensive skills, that athleticism should help him remain at a premium position.

Dynasty managers should be excited about Gonzalez’s potential to become a high-average shortstop with 15–20 home runs and elite stolen-base production. His developmental risk remains significant, but his long-term fantasy ceiling is outstanding.

#5 – Eli Willits | Washington Nationals

Age: 18 | SS | Double-A | ETA: 2028

Willits possesses an exciting blend of advanced hitting ability, outstanding athleticism, and exceptional baseball instincts. His impressive offensive foundation gives him the potential to become a high-impact fantasy shortstop capable of contributing in multiple categories.

Washington selected Willits with the first overall pick in the 2025 MLB Draft out of Fort Cobb-Broxton High School in Oklahoma. The Nationals made the young switch-hitter the centerpiece of their future after recognizing his rare combination of polish and upside.

At the plate, Willits demonstrates excellent pitch recognition, quick hands, and advanced bat-to-ball skills. Although his current offensive profile leans toward contact rather than power, additional strength could eventually create 15–20 home run potential.

His speed is an important component of his fantasy outlook, giving him the ability to become a consistent stolen-base contributor. Combined with his on-base skills, that athleticism could make him a valuable source of runs and steals.

For dynasty managers, Willits projects as a potential .290 hitter with 15–20 home runs and 25–35 stolen bases. His balanced offensive profile and impressive developmental foundation make him one of the safest high-upside teenage investments in baseball.

#4 – Sebastian Walcott | Texas Rangers

Age: 20 | SS/3B | Triple-A | ETA: 2027–2028

Walcott is a physically gifted shortstop with the raw tools to become a legitimate fantasy superstar. His exceptional bat speed, impressive size, and combination of power and athleticism give him one of the highest offensive ceilings in the minor leagues.

Texas signed Walcott out of the Bahamas during the January 2023 international signing period for approximately $3.2 million. His rapid rise through the Rangers’ system established him as one of baseball’s most exciting young talents.

At the plate, Walcott generates explosive bat speed and possesses the strength to drive baseballs extraordinary distances. His offensive ceiling includes 30-plus home run potential, although reducing swing-and-miss remains essential to reaching that level.

Walcott also brings legitimate stolen-base ability, giving him the potential to deliver significant fantasy production beyond his power. His development has been complicated by a right elbow UCL injury requiring surgery in 2026, making his recovery an important consideration.

For dynasty managers, Walcott remains a premium upside investment with the potential to produce 30 home runs and 20 stolen bases during his prime. His injury history introduces additional uncertainty, but the possibility of elite five-category production makes him worth the wait.

#3 – Leo De Vries | Athletics

Age: 20 | SS/3B | Double-A | ETA: 2027

De Vries is a remarkably talented switch-hitting infielder whose combination of advanced offensive instincts, explosive bat speed, and emerging power makes him a potential fantasy superstar. Few young prospects offer such an enticing combination of offensive polish and long-term upside.

Originally signed by the San Diego Padres out of the Dominican Republic in January 2024, De Vries joined the Athletics in July 2025 as the centerpiece of the blockbuster trade that sent closer Mason Miller to San Diego.

At the plate, De Vries features an exceptionally smooth swing from both sides and an advanced understanding of the strike zone. His ability to produce hard contact and generate natural loft creates the foundation for 25–30 home run potential.

His athleticism adds another valuable dimension, with enough speed to contribute 15–25 stolen bases during his prime. Combined with his developing power and impressive hitting instincts, De Vries possesses the tools to become a true five-category contributor.

For dynasty managers, De Vries offers the ceiling of a .280-plus hitter with 30 home runs, 20 stolen bases, and outstanding run production. His combination of offensive upside and positional value makes him one of the most desirable long-term assets in fantasy baseball.

#2 – Franklin Arias | Boston Red Sox

Age: 20 | SS | Triple-A | ETA: 2027

Arias has emerged as one of baseball’s premier hitting prospects, combining exceptional contact ability with rapidly improving power. His offensive development has transformed him from a defense-first shortstop into a potential cornerstone for dynasty fantasy managers.

Boston signed Arias out of Venezuela during the January 2023 international signing period for $525,000. His steady progression through the Red Sox system and impressive offensive improvement have made that investment look increasingly valuable.

At the plate, Arias displays outstanding barrel control, quick hands, and a disciplined approach that allows him to consistently square up quality pitching. His growing strength has unlocked additional power, raising his offensive ceiling considerably.

Although Arias is not an elite runner, he possesses enough athleticism to contribute occasional stolen bases. His excellent defensive ability should keep him at shortstop, while his combination of contact skills and improving power creates a particularly attractive fantasy foundation.

For dynasty managers, Arias offers the potential to hit .300 with 20–25 home runs and useful run production. His exceptional hitting ability, improving power, and relatively advanced development make him one of the most appealing long-term fantasy investments in baseball.

#1 – Jesús Made | Milwaukee Brewers

Age: 19 | SS/2B | Double-A | ETA: 2027

Made is an electrifying switch-hitting prospect whose combination of outstanding athleticism, advanced contact skills, and emerging power gives him legitimate fantasy superstar potential. His ability to influence every offensive category makes him one of the most exciting dynasty assets in baseball.

Milwaukee signed Made out of the Dominican Republic during the January 2024 international signing period for $950,000. His remarkable progression through the Brewers’ system has established him as another outstanding example of the organization’s international scouting success.

At the plate, Made generates exceptional bat speed from both sides and demonstrates an advanced ability to recognize pitches. His developing strength and natural hitting instincts create the potential for substantial power without sacrificing batting average.

His plus speed provides another major fantasy advantage, with the potential to become a consistent 30-plus stolen-base threat. Combined with his offensive polish and improving power, Made possesses the ingredients of a genuine five-category difference-maker.

For dynasty managers, Made offers a tantalizing ceiling of a .290-plus batting average, 25–30 home runs and 30–40 stolen bases. His combination of upside, athleticism, and rapid development makes him one of the most valuable prospects to roster in any dynasty format.

Final Thoughts

This Top 20 features an exciting collection of young talent with the potential to shape the future of dynasty fantasy baseball. From the elite five-category upside of Jesús Made and Leo De Vries to the advanced hitting ability of Franklin Arias, the top of these rankings offers legitimate superstar potential.

While prospects like Sebastian Walcott and Eli Willits provide an enticing combination of power, speed, and athleticism, younger talents such as Josuar Gonzalez, Grady Emerson, and Luis Hernandez offer tremendous long-term upside for patient dynasty managers.

Ultimately, balancing ceiling, proximity, and developmental risk is the key to dynasty success. Not every prospect will reach his full potential, but identifying tomorrow’s fantasy stars before their breakout seasons can provide a championship-winning advantage for years to come.

Also, make sure to check out our 2026 MLB organizational Prospect Rankings!