Cedric Mullins

2026 Fantasy Baseball Player Profile

Cedric Mullins continued to demonstrate his unique power-speed profile in 2025, splitting his season between Baltimore and the New York Mets following a mid-season trade. While his batting average remained a liability at .216, his counting stats were undeniably valuable; across 133 games, he launched 17 home runs and swiped 22 bases, marking his fifth consecutive season with at least 15 homers and 15 steals. His defensive metrics in center field remained solid, and his ability to draw walks (10.0% BB rate) helped prop up his OBP to a respectable .299 despite the contact struggles. However, his strikeout rate ticked up to 24.1%, and his production dipped significantly after the trade to New York, where he hit just .182 in 42 games.

Entering 2026, Mullins finds himself in a new environment after signing a one-year, $7.5 million contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. This move offers a fascinating "buy-low" opportunity for fantasy managers, as the Rays have a proven track record of maximizing platoon advantages and revitalizing veteran hitters. While he likely won't return to his 30/30 heights of 2021, the change of scenery and everyday role in center field should provide a stable floor for steals and power. Projections peg him for a .225-.230 average with 15-20 homers and 20 steals, making him a solid post-hype target for managers needing speed and power late in drafts who can stomach the batting average risk.