Prospect promotions in the final 45 days of the regular season determine rookie eligibility and influence fantasy waiver-wire strategy. Players recalled on or after that cutoff can still qualify for Rookie of the Year consideration in the following season, increasing their value to fantasy managers and MLB teams. Three notable prospects debuted recently, with more promotions possible before the regular season ends. Sam Basallo stands out as a top Orioles prospect with significant Triple-A power numbers, a left-handed swing suited for Camden Yards, and clear upside that justifies a delayed big-league call and fantasy attention.
That corresponds to the maximum amount a prospect can accrue while still retaining rookie eligibility into the following season, meaning that anyone recalled on that date or later can remain a candidate for Rookie of the Year honors -- with their teams reaping the rewards if they win it -- in 2026. This is why you saw three prominent prospects recalled to mark their big-league debuts this past weekend, while you might see more promoted in the coming days.
Though the team didn't summon him when they dealt with a rash of injuries to their catchers in June/July -- over a 16-day stretch from June 21 to July 6, the team placed Adley Rutschman, Maverick Handley, Chadwick Tromp and Gary Sanchez on the IL, yet still didn't promote him -- Basallo's delayed arrival makes sense if you consider his upside that makes him a legitimate candidate for a 2026 Rookie of the Year Award.
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