Introduction

As the MLB trade deadline approaches, dynasty and keeper league managers are looking ahead to the future. This guide ranks the top 300 players for the next five-plus seasons, providing a valuable resource for making strategic decisions.

Methodology

Our rankings are based on a weighted formula that considers performance from 2025 through 2029. The formula is as follows:

• Rest-of-2025 performance: 10%
• 2026 performance: 22.5%
• 2027 performance: 22.5%
• 2028 performance: 22.5%
• 2029 performance and beyond: 22.5%

This approach ensures a balanced view of both immediate and long-term player value.

Key Factors

Several factors influence these rankings:

• League Format: Whether your league is roto or points-based, and the depth of roster settings.
• Number of Keepers: The number of players each team can retain annually.
• Player Pricing: Draft or salary-cap formats, and how players are priced.
• Contract Factors: Limits on keeper years, guaranteed contracts, and price inflation.
• Farm Teams: Inclusion of minor league slots and their impact on the keeper system.
• Team Competitiveness: Whether your team is a contender, rebuilder, or somewhere in between.

Top 10 Players

1. Shohei Ohtani (LAD) - DH/SP
2. Bobby Witt Jr. (KC) - SS
3. Juan Soto (NYM) - OF
4. Corbin Carroll (ARI) - OF
5. Ronald Acuna Jr. (ATL) - OF
6. James Wood (WSH) - OF
7. Paul Skenes (PIT) - SP
8. Gunnar Henderson (BAL) - SS
9. Fernando Tatis Jr. (SD) - OF
10. Elly De La Cruz (CIN) - SS

Positional Rankings

Catchers

1. William Contreras (MIL)
2. Cal Raleigh (SEA)
3. Adley Rutschman (BAL)

First Basemen

1. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (TOR)
2. Bryce Harper (PHI)
3. Pete Alonso (NYM)

Second Basemen

1. Jackson Holliday (BAL)
2. Ketel Marte (ARI)
3. Jazz Chisholm Jr. (NYY)

Shortstops

1. Bobby Witt Jr. (KC)
2. Gunnar Henderson (BAL)
3. Elly De La Cruz (CIN)

Third Basemen

1. Jose Ramirez (CLE)
2. Junior Caminero (TB)
3. Rafael Devers (SF)

Outfielders

1. Juan Soto (NYM)
2. Corbin Carroll (ARI)
3. Ronald Acuna Jr. (ATL)

Designated Hitters

1. Shohei Ohtani (LAD)
2. Kyle Schwarber (PHI)
3. Marcell Ozuna (ATL)

Starting Pitchers

1. Shohei Ohtani (LAD)
2. Paul Skenes (PIT)
3. Tarik Skubal (DET)

Relief Pitchers

1. Mason Miller (ATH)
2. Emmanuel Clase (CLE)
3. Jacob Misiorowski (MIL)

Conclusion

These rankings are designed to help fantasy managers make informed decisions about trades and roster management. Whether you're a contender or rebuilding, this guide provides the insights you need to stay ahead in your dynasty league.