MLB Fantasy Rankings 2024: Top 5 late-round shortstops to draft ahead of new season

As each day of the offseason goes by, the MLB fantasy baseball season approaches. Even though Opening Day is slated for March 28, many experienced managers know that it is never too soon to start researching and analyzing which players they want to target this upcoming season.

Heading into the 2024 MLB fantasy season, the shortstop position is one that will provide owners with star players and depth. Gone are the days of shortstop being a shallow position. However, getting the right picks could be the difference between winning and losing.

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A look at five late-round shortstops to target in MLB fantasy drafts

#1 - J.P. Crawford

J.P. Crawford has excelled batting near the top of the order for the Seattle Mariners in recent seasons. The 29-year-old has been a steady source of runs, and although he is not a power-hitter, he is coming off a season that saw him hit a career-high 19 home runs.

"I think he's one of the most underrated players in our game." - Dan O'Dowd on J.P. Crawford. @Mariners SS @jp_crawford makes his #Top10RightNow debut at #10!" - @MLBNetwork

#2 - Jackson Holliday

There has been no word yet if Jackson Holliday will make the Baltimore Orioles' Opening Day roster.

However, even if he is not, he could see a promotion at some point during the regular season, which would greatly benefit MLB fantasy managers who stashed him early on.

#3 - Ezequiel Tovar

Although the Colorado Rockies were one of the worst teams in the MLB last season, Ezequiel Tovar proved to be a valued asset for fantasy managers. In his first full season in the majors, Tovar posted 15 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases, making him a multi-category value later in drafts.

"#Rockies Ezequiel Tovar Late Season Highlights! Here is a reel i put together of the stud SS, '24 season gonna turn heads. #mlb #BaseBall #thehobby" - @OnHighNetwork

#4 - Vaughn Grissom

Vaughn Grissom was one of the most hyped young players entering the 2023 fantasy season. However, things did not go according to plan. The young infielder failed to impress during the opportunities he was given, eventually losing his role to Orlando Arcia, who thrived.

Now a member of the Boston Red Sox, could we finally see the Vaughn Grissom break out that many owners have been hoping for?

#5 - Tim Anderson

Few players suffered as much of a fall from grace as Tim Anderson last season. After being a power and speed threat earlier in his career, Anderson's production fell off a cliff, hitting only one home run in 2023.

"I hope Tim Anderson signs with somebody soon" - @StonecoldSxnick

That being said, if there was a player to gamble on later in MLB fantasy drafts, it might be Tim Anderson. At only 30 years old, Anderson is young enough that his skills may not have completely diminished, making him one of the most intriguing but questionable selections in 2024.