

Tampa Bay Rays starting pitcher Ryan Pepiot got hit hard during Tuesday's Cactus League matchup versus the Boston Red Sox. Pepiot didn't start this contest, but pitched 2 2/3 innings and allowed eight hits, six runs, no walks and struck out three. Pepiot fared much better in his first outing, which was a start, and that's where he'll be pitching for the Rays once the season begins. The 26-year-old right-hander was 2-1 with a 2.14 ERA in three starts and five relief appearances for the Dodgers this past season and has been a highly touted prospect over the last couple of seasons. It will take more than one bad outing for Pepiot's fantasy managers to worry, but for now, expect him to have a rotation spot for the Rays. For those looking for an upside arm in mixed leagues, Pepiot should be considered.


Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder James Outman has been enjoying a nice Cactus League thus far. Entering his second season, the young outfielder is hitting .429 with two homers, four RBI and three stolen bases over his first 14 at-bats. Outman had an impressive rookie campaign with a .248 batting average to go along with 23 homers, 70 RBI and 16 stolen bases and will look to build off of that in 2024. Part of one of the best lineups in the league, Outman should have plenty of counting stats to go along offering power and speed. Despite having hot and cold results as a rookie, he is worth a look in all formats.


Texas Rangers outfielder Evan Carter continued his strong Cactus League performance in Tuesday's victory versus the Seattle Mariners. The 21-year-old went 2-for-3 with five RBI. Both hits were homers, one solo and one a grand slam. He is now hitting .389 with a pair of homers, seven RBI and two stolen bases over his first 18 at-bats. Carter got the call towards to the end of last season and held his own throughout a strong postseason run. One of the young bright stars in the league, Carter's value continues to soar as spring goes on. Carter will be drafted as a No. 2/3 outfield option but has the potential the finish the season as an OF1. The potential for big value is there, and he is absolutely worth reaching for a few rounds ahead of his average draft position of 99.



Milwaukee Brewers outfield prospect Jackson Chourio went 3-for-3 with a run and RBI during Tuesday's Cactus League loss against the San Francisco Giants. The 19-year-old phenom is now hitting .304 with two RBI over his first 23 at-bats. Signed to an eight-year, $82 million contract this offseason, Chourio is slated to make his big-league debut as an everyday outfielder in 2024. With the ability to hit for power and swipe bags, Chourio makes for an exciting No. 2/3 outfield option with immense upside heading into the season. Fantasy managers in all formats should be keeping tabs on the Rookie of the Year candidate with his value likely to keep climbing as we get closer to Opening Day.


Chicago Cubs closer Adbert Alzolay has made two Cactus League appearances this spring, allowing no runs with two strikeouts in two innings pitched. The 29-year-old emerged as a fantasy asset last season, earning 22 saves with a 2.67 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, and 26.5% strikeout rate. The Cubs did sign Hector Neris this off-season and he brings closer experience with him. However, it seems that Alzolay will have a shot to continue his role as closer to start the 2024 season, particularly if he pitches well this spring. Fantasy managers should monitor both Alzolay and Neris over the next couple of weeks.
