MLB All-Star Fantasy Teams: Top Performers in First Half

When fantasy managers think about All‑Star rosters, they usually look at real roster selections. For those who prefer a numbers‑only approach, we constructed an All‑Star team built entirely on first‑half fantasy production, using every major category—home runs, runs batted in, steals, batting average and more. The result is a roster of players who may not have made the official All‑Star Game but have been the most valuable fantasy assets so far this season.

American League

Ben Rice (C, Yankees) has been the most valuable catcher, leading the position in home runs, RBI and runs scored. His impact in the lineup helped him rank as the second‑best overall fantasy hitter in the Junior Circuit. The catcher’s power‑and‑run production set him apart from other contenders.

Nick Kurtz (1B, Athletics) made his mark by hitting out of the top two spots and posting at least 20 homers, 60 RBI and 60 runs—five categories that matter most in fantasy. His seven steals add extra value, showing he can contribute beyond just the power numbers. Kurtz’s ability to deliver in multiple counting stats makes him a reliable first‑ baseman.

Jazz Chisholm Jr. (2B, Yankees) owns a power‑speed combo that earned him the top spot among a weak second‑base group. Despite a low batting average and being outside the top 100 players, his 13 home runs and 26 stolen bases gave him an edge over rivals Brayan Rocchio and Brooks Lee. Chisholm’s six‑category usefulness shines in an otherwise light position.

Junior Caminero (3B, Rays) rode a hot June stretch, hitting 11 homers and driving in 22 runs over nine games. His other 83 games produced 17 homers and 37 RBI, still solid enough to keep his fantasy relevance high. Caminero’s hot streak proved he can produce at a high level when he’s on fire.

Bobby Witt Jr. (SS, Royals) repeated his previous year’s fantasy success despite a modest .816 OPS. He leads the league with 30 stolen bases and ranks near the top in multiple counting categories. Witt’s defensive versatility and speed continue to make him a five‑category staple.

Yordan Alvarez (OF, Astros) was the runaway MVP for fantasy, topping the AL in home runs (31) and RBI (70) while posting a 1.059 OPS. His ability to stay healthy would elevate his value further, as he’s been injury‑prone in the past. Alvarez’s combination of power, run production and on‑base efficiency makes him a must‑pick.

Byron Buxton (OF, Twins) grabbed the final outfield spot while sitting on the injured list, thanks to his .904 OPS and 25 home runs from previous seasons. A quick return from his hip injury could keep him in the lineup and maintain his fantasy relevance. Buxton’s track record when healthy justifies his inclusion.

Randy Arozarena (OF, Mariners) balanced his stats across five categories—11 HR, 45 RBI, 59 runs, 19 steals, .286 average. He joins Alvarez and Buxton as one of only three AL outfielders in the top 20 fantasy rankings. Arozarena’s consistent, multi‑dimensional performance keeps him relevant.

Miguel Vargas (DH, White Sox) emerged as a top‑five waiver‑wire pickup, delivering 21 home runs and 11 steals while posting a .791‑.892 OPS each month. His consistency in run creation and power has turned him into a reliable daily starter. Vargas’s steady production makes him a safe high‑floor option.

Cam Schlittler (SP, Yankees) dominates the AL in ERA and WHIP and trails only Dylan Cease in strikeouts. He chose to sit out the real All‑Star Game to rest for the second half, a strategic move that benefits fantasy owners. Schlittler’s command and ability to miss bats make him a top pitching pick.

Sonny Gray (SP, Red Sox) edged out real All‑Star starter Dylan Cease for this slot with a lights‑out second half (9‑0, 1.98 ERA). After a 4.30 ERA on his return, Gray turned his season around with a 1.03 WHIP. His resurgence gives fantasy managers a reliable pitcher heading into the break.

Louis Varland (RP, Blue Jays) became a waiver‑wire gem in May, ranking second in ERA and strikeouts among pitchers with five or more saves. His high‑strikeout profile and low run allowance make him an attractive late‑round selection. Varland’s emergence shows how a mature reliever can elevate a fantasy roster.

National League

Hunter Goodman (C, Rockies) powered past other NL catchers with 27 home runs, 12 more than any peer in the league. Despite a high strikeout rate, his barrel rate and hard‑hit percentage demonstrate efficient contact. Goodman’s ability to overperform expected stats makes him a risky but rewarding catcher.

Matt Olson (1B, Braves) started April with a .302 average and nine homers, but his production has settled into a solid but unspectacular range since May. He still contributes in the run and RBI categories, keeping him relevant in many leagues. Olson’s early burst gave his team a temporary boost, while his consistency maintains value.

Otto Lopez (2B, Marlins) transformed his season by slashing .334, leading the majors in batting average. Combined with top‑20 runs and steals, he vaulted to the No. 6 overall hitter. Lopez’s sudden offensive surge has turned him into a five‑category contributor.

Sal Stewart (3B, Reds) added nine homers and seven steals by April’s end, then posted another 10 long balls and four swipes in May. Some managers may overvalue his recent numbers, but his power‑and‑speed combo remains useful. Stewart’s consistent output across the first half makes him a dependable option.

CJ Abrams (SS, Nationals) stands alone with at least 20 homers and 15 steals, also ranking fifth in the league with 67 RBI. His all‑around skill set makes him a premium shortstop in fantasy. Abrams’s ability to hit for power and steal bases gives him elite status.

James Wood (OF, Nationals) leads all players with 21 more runs scored than anyone else, propelling him to the top of the overall hitter list. He also joins the elite trio with 40 combined HR and SB. Wood’s run‑scoring prowess and power make him a top outfield steal.

Jordan Walker (OF, Cardinals) came off waivers early and now ranks third in hitting value, with 136 combined runs and RBI. He also boasts a .? batting average and is one of five players with at least 20 homers and 10 steals. Walker’s waiver‑wire success story shines as a model for scouting value.

Pete Crow‑Armstrong (OF, Cubs) exploded after June 1, hitting 14 homers, 12 steals, .374 average and 1.232 OPS. His inconsistency makes him a boom‑or‑bust pick, but his peak performance can carry a fantasy team. Crow‑Armstrong’s hot stretch highlights the volatility of mid‑season surges.

Shohei Ohtani (DH, Dodgers) remains the sixth overall hitter despite a year‑over‑year OPS drop, slowed running, and a minor knee injury. He also ranks fifth overall as a pitcher, a dual threat that would have filled both spots. Ohtani’s unique two‑way skill set continues to defy traditional categories.

Jacob Misiorowski (SP, Brewers) entered the break as the top fantasy producer at any position, leading the league in ERA, WHIP and strikeouts. No qualified pitcher since Zack Greinke in 2015 has posted a better ERA at the break. Misiorowski’s historic ratios make him a once‑in‑a‑generation fantasy gem.

Zack Wheeler (SP, Phillies) rebounded from thoracic outlet surgery to post a 2.13 ERA and 0.89 WHIP, ranking third among starters. He will attend our All‑Star Game despite real‑life concerns, giving fantasy managers a secure pick. Wheeler’s amazing comeback adds elite value to any roster.

Mason Miller (RP, Padres) has struck out nearly half the batters he faces (48.3%) and converted all 25 save chances with a 0.91 ERA and 0.78 WHIP. His dominance in the ninth inning makes him a must‑have for any fantasy league. Miller’s index‑level performance underscores his status as a top relief option.

These first‑half standout performances reveal where fantasy managers can find value beyond the official All‑Star selections. As the season moves forward, players who excel in counting stats and maintain low ERAs will likely continue to dominate both real and fantasy statistics. Using this data-driven lineup can give you an edge heading into the second half and beyond.