Fantasy Baseball Week 7 Rankings Released: Cade Cavalli and Davis Martin Lead Two-Start Slate
New projections for the May 4–10 scoring period highlight Washington Nationals and Chicago White Sox hurlers as top options, though analysts warn of inherent volatility in two-game slates.
Scott White, a regular contributor to CBS Sports, has published his weekly fantasy baseball preview for the period running from May 4 to May 10. The analysis specifically targets two-start pitchers, categorising them into four tiers: 'must-start', 'advisable in most cases', 'better left for points leagues', and 'no thanks'. These rankings are derived from projected matchups against opponents including the Boston Red Sox, Baltimore Orioles, and Milwaukee Brewers.
The data is current as of Sunday evening, May 3, 2026, and explicitly identifies Cade Cavalli of the Washington Nationals and Davis Martin of the Chicago White Sox as standout selections. Cavalli is listed as a top option facing the Minnesota Twins and Miami Marlins, while Martin is projected to face the Los Angeles Angels and Seattle Mariners. Both players appear in the upper echelons of the 'must-start' category for all formats.
The methodology involves forecasting pitcher performance over a two-game slate, which introduces inherent variability compared to single-game starts. Consequently, the analysis notes that the rankings require some forecasting and are subject to change before the week begins. The list relies on projected lineups and potential roster moves that may not be finalised until closer to the start of the week.
Other notable names in the 'must-start' category include Tarik Skubal of the Detroit Tigers and Cameron Schlittler of the New York Yankees. Skubal is scheduled to face the Boston Red Sox, while Schlittler is set to pitch against the Baltimore Orioles. The rankings also highlight Cristopher Sanchez of the Philadelphia Phillies and Gavin Williams of the Cleveland Guardians as strong options for their respective doubleheaders.
For managers utilising standard "all formats" leagues, the preview suggests caution with pitchers designated as 'better left for points leagues'. This tier includes players such as JR Ritchie of the Atlanta Braves and Shane Baz of the Baltimore Orioles. The categorisation is influenced by the specific scoring rules of different fantasy platforms, which may alter the perceived value of certain pitchers.
The analysis serves as a probabilistic guide rather than a guaranteed outcome, acknowledging that performance in two-start slates can be volatile. Managers are advised to monitor finalised lineups and roster moves in the days leading up to the May 4 start date before locking in their lineups for the week.
