In the world of fantasy baseball, Oneil Cruz is a complex player characterized by both potential and risk. He fell into two categories of bust candidates. Firstly, there are those who are decent players yet cost too much in drafts; Cruz fits here as he had 20 home runs and 38 steals in 2025 but is overpriced based on his draft cost of 98.6. Secondly, there are players whose drawbacks make them undesirable in any situation, and Cruz’s disappointing .200 batting average with 62 runs and 61 RBIs places him in this category as well.

Although it’s anticipated that he will improve in 2026, with expected batting average ratings indicating he deserved better results in 2025, concerns linger. Cruz may just be a platoon player based on his woeful performance against left-handed pitchers, with a .400 OPS last season. Teams, including the Pirates, may choose to limit his playtime if he continues to struggle.

While Cruz boasts remarkable talent, hitting the ball harder than most players in MLB, he is now 27 years old, an age where potential is expected to materialize.

At present, Cruz has considerable risk that fantasy players must account for. He may repeat his disappointing 2025 performance or be relegated to bench duty. Given his cost, when considering drafts, some analysts suggest it’s wiser to avoid Cruz this season altogether, unless his value significantly drops.

Key Points

• Oneil Cruz: high potential but substantial risk
• Had issues against left-handed pitchers
• Currently overpriced for drafts
• Possible downsides may hinder fantasy prospects
• Potential upside still exists but carries high risk.