The 2025 fantasy baseball season is fast approaching, and with it comes the high-stakes world of draft prep. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or a first-time player, understanding positional depth, player upside, and risk factors is critical to constructing a championship-caliber roster.
Draft Smarter, Not Harder
A successful fantasy draft isn’t just about picking the biggest names—it’s about maximizing value at every position. That means
targeting multi-category contributors, avoiding injury-prone risks, and taking advantage of late-round steals.
One of the biggest mistakes drafters make is overvaluing past performance. Just because a player had a breakout season in 2024 doesn’t mean they’ll replicate those numbers in 2025. On the flip side, young players with untapped potential—like Cincinnati’s Elly De La Cruz—could be primed for a massive step forward.
Understanding positional depth is also crucial. Positions like shortstop and third base are stacked with talent, meaning you can afford to wait. However, catcher and second base thin out quickly, making it essential to grab an elite option early.
Players to Draft with Confidence
Shohei Ohtani (DH/SP, Dodgers): Even with his pitching on hold due to injury, Ohtani’s offensive numbers make him a first-round lock. Expect 40+ home runs and elite production across the board. If you have the #1 overall pick in your league and don’t pick him, trust me, you will regret it.
Bobby Witt Jr. (SS, Royals): Witt is one of the few players with legitimate 30/30 (home runs/stolen bases) potential. His power-speed combination is elite, making him a cornerstone for any fantasy team.
Julio Rodríguez (OF, Mariners): At just 24 years old, Rodríguez has already solidified himself as one of the game’s top five-tool players. If he improves his walk rate, he could push for an MVP season.
Corbin Burnes (SP, Diamondbacks): One of the safest aces in fantasy baseball, Burnes delivers elite strikeouts and ratios while consistently pitching deep into games.
Michael Harris II (OF, Braves): After a slow start in 2024, Harris found his stride in the second half. His mix of power and speed, combined with hitting in Atlanta’s loaded lineup, makes him a great mid-round pick.
Players to Approach with Caution
Corey Seager (SS, Rangers): When healthy, Seager is one of the best hitters in baseball. But that’s the problem—he’s rarely healthy for a full season. Draft with tempered expectations.
Hunter Greene (SP, Reds): Greene’s electric fastball is tantalizing, but his high walk rate and tendency to give up home runs make him a volatile pick. He’s better suited as a high-risk, high-reward option.
Eloy Jiménez (OF, Rays): Jiménez has power, but injuries and inconsistent production make him a frustrating fantasy asset. There are safer options available in his draft range.
Roki Sasaki (SP, Dodgers): Sasaki has dominated in Japan, but MLB is a different challenge. There’s upside, but he could struggle with workload adjustments and command.
Jacob deGrom (SP, Rangers): When healthy, deGrom is the best pitcher in baseball. But that’s a big “when.” Drafting him means accepting a major injury risk.
Final Draft Tips
Stay Flexible: Don’t lock yourself into a rigid draft strategy. If the best available player doesn’t fit your original plan, adjust accordingly.
Monitor Spring Training: Pay attention to lineup changes, player health, and performance trends. A strong spring can indicate a breakout year, while a slow start might signal trouble.
Target Multi-Category Players: Power-speed threats like Witt Jr. and Rodríguez provide the most fantasy value. One-dimensional sluggers, on the other hand, can leave you vulnerable in other categories.
Be Wary of Name Value: Don’t draft a player just because they were a star three years ago. Look at recent trends, injury history, and team context.
By combining smart drafting with strategic in-season management, you can position yourself for a deep fantasy baseball run. Now, it’s time to step up to the plate and build your winning squad.
