The Catcher Come-up
Real talk: The catcher position has been on a rollercoaster lately. After a promising start in 2026, the position hit a bit of a mid-season slump, but don't let that fool you. While only Gabriel Moreno managed to keep an .800 OPS through both halves of the season, the high-end talent is actually looking stronger than it has in years. We saw the number of $20 catchers jump from four in 2025 to nine in 2026. It’s giving major progress, no cap.
Who’s Moving Up?
Gabriel Moreno is the clear main character here. After showing flashes in 2025, he absolutely leveled up in 2026, crushing 10 homers after the All-Star break alone. He’s looking like a solid 15-homer threat who can actually help your batting average, which is a massive W.
Then there’s the Dillon Dingler situation. Despite cooling off at the end of the season, he finished with 27 homers and 91 RBI—huge numbers for a catcher. If the Tigers manage his workload better in 2027, he’s a massive sleeper candidate. We’re also keeping our eyes on Leo Bernal from the Cardinals. He looked like the real deal down the stretch, locking down the primary catcher spot with solid hitting and even better defense.
The Raleigh Reality Check
On the flip side, Cal Raleigh had a rough one. He was lowkey one of the biggest busts in fantasy history last season, hampered by multiple oblique injuries and batting struggles. He managed a late-season surge, but he’s heading into his 30s now. Expect a bounce back, but maybe not to his former "clear top choice" status. He’s still a top-12 play for 2027, just keep your expectations in check.
Why it matters
The gap between catchers and other positions is finally shrinking. With young talent like Moreno and Bernal gaining momentum, drafting a top-tier catcher isn't just a move for your team—it's a necessity. The landscape is shifting, and if you play your cards right, the catcher position won't be the liability it used to be.
