April has already come and gone, and the MLB season is flying by. As we head into the weekend, lineup pictures are finally starting to take shape in some cities while staying cloudy in others. Here's the latest on every team's batting order—and what it means for your fantasy squad.
San Diego Padres: Fernando Tatís Jr. is making a big move to second base, giving fantasy managers a new position of eligibility to work with. This shift adds flexibility to your infield and keeps his bat in the lineup daily.
Arizona Diamondbacks: Ildemaro Vargas has been a workhorse, starting 15 straight games and 19 of 20. He's primarily at first base but slides to second when Ketel Marte serves as designated hitter. Meanwhile, Adrian Del Castillo and Gabriel Moreno have essentially swapped IL stints and cleanup duties. Jose Fernandez is getting starts at first and DH, plus filling in at shortstop when Geraldo Perdomo sits.
Oakland Athletics: Brent Rooker surprised everyone by returning Sunday and serving as DH for three straight games before getting a breather Thursday. Tyler Soderstrom (shoulder/head) is banged up, which could open more middle-of-the-order chances against righties for Carlos Cortes. Darell Hernaiz has started four straight at third base since Max Muncy was diagnosed with a fractured hand.
Atlanta Braves: Ronald Acuña Jr. and Drake Baldwin have hit 1-2 in all 31 games this season—a model of consistency. Michael Harris II, who is absolutely raking, started the year in the bottom third of the order but has worked his way up to fifth against right-handed pitching. Austin Riley has slipped to sixth against righties. Mauricio Dubon has been in the lineup for all but two games, mostly at shortstop with some left field mixed in.
Baltimore Orioles: Gunnar Henderson, Taylor Ward, and Pete Alonso have played every game so far, including Thursday's doubleheader—ironman status. Adley Rutschman has started six of eight since returning from the IL, including his first appearance as a DH.
With the season heating up, these lineup shifts are crucial for fantasy managers looking to gain an edge. Keep an eye on position changes like Tatís's move to second base and hot hitters like Harris climbing the order—they could be difference-makers on your roster.